Migrant Worker Alleges Discriminatory Wage Practices by Security Company in Ireland
A recent hearing at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) in Ireland has shed light on allegations of wage non-payment by BGS Security Ltd (BGSS) towards migrant workers. James Ajibola, a former employee of the security firm, accused BGSS of not remunerating workers with “a deficiency of the English language.”
Background of the Complaint
James Ajibola, hired by BGSS in July 2024, claims he worked approximately 230 hours as a security guard in Dublin. Despite his efforts, he was unpaid for about eight months until he quit in September 2024. Ajibola estimates he was owed around €3,400.
Ajibola also alleges that he heard other workers at BGSS faced similar issues with non-payment of wages. He noted this discriminatory practice towards those with limited English proficiency.
Company’s Absence from Hearing
Significantly, BGSS failed to appear in court for the hearing into Ajibola’s statutory complaint under the Payment of Wages Act 1991. The absence led to the WRC proceeding based on Ajibola’s sworn testimony.
AWS adjudicator Patricia Owens took Ajibola’s statements into account after ensuring the company was properly notified.
Worker’s Testimony
Ajibola detailed his employment experience. He worked various shifts, including day and night duties, at different client sites like Spar on Dame Street, Supervalu on Aston Quay, and Great Outdoors sports shop on George’s Street.
Ajibola mentions receiving payslips that indicated payments had been made, although he did not receive any cash from BGSS. He expressed concerns to a manager, who initially assured him the company would definitely pay.
Company’s Response and Worker’s Desperation
In late September, a company director sent a message to staff apologizing for payroll delays, blaming troubles with “late payments.” However, Ajibola maintains he had not received any wages for the months of July, August, and September as of his dismissal in September.
“People who have a deficiency of the English language, they will not pay them,” Ajibola stated during his testimony. He elaborated that while some “strategic staff” had been employed at BGSS for years and were paid regularly, others with limited English faced financial difficulties.
According to Ajibola, after August, he resorted to persistent requests for payment, which he termed as “begging.”
Consequences and Next Steps
The adjudicator, Patricia Owens, promised Ajibola a decision within a couple of weeks. Owens explained that even if BGSS continued to avoid engagement, the Law would provide mechanisms to enforce the adjudicator’s decision.
This case highlights significant concerns about fair employment practices and wage payments, especially towards migrant workers in Ireland.
Call to Action
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