The Ministry of Labor says it has uncovered the employment of 310 foreign workers by AFCONS in Yekepa, Nimba County without the required work permits.
AFCONS is a company that has being subcontracted by ArcelorMittal Liberia to carry out operation for the multinational company.
The Deputy Inspector General of Labor at the Ministry of Labor, Darius K. Weamie disclosed that the 310 foreign employees at AFCONS were uncovered without permits during its full-scale nationwide inspection of concession companies.
The nationwide inspection tour was intended to ensure that foreign workers be in compliance with the Labor Law of the Liberia by obtaining their work permits, ensure that jobs Liberians are entitled to are not given to them and to end bad labor practices at concession companies.
Inspector Weamie disclosed that this significant discovery highlights the Ministry’s commitment to enforcing labor regulations and ensuring compliance.
He added that following the discovery, the Ministry imposed a substantial fine exceeding US$930,000 on the involved parties. He pointed out that the fine imposed on AFCONS and the 310 foreign workers is backed under Regulations 17 Revised 2019 Section 4b.
The management of AFCONS he added has been mandated to pay a compulsory amount of US$310,000 into government revenue immediately to obtain work permits for the foreign workers.
He added that this decisive action underscores the Ministry’s dedication to maintaining the integrity of Liberia’s labor laws and protecting the interests of both domestic and foreign workers in the country.
The Labor Inspector General added, “An employer shall not employ a foreign worker unless they possess a current work permits issued by the Ministry/Minister.”
He added that the enforcement of the Liberian labor laws is crucial for ensuring fair treatment and legal compliance in all employment practices.
Concluding Mr. Weamie added, “We will continue to uphold these standards to foster a lawful and equitable working environment in Liberia.”
