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Officials from WorkSafe and the Labor Inspectorate have visited the Gloriavale Christian community for claims that some members were forced to work more than 20 hours a day.
Labor Relations and Safety Minister Andrew Little asked officials to visit Gloriavale on the west coast of the South Island along with WorkSafe staff on Monday.
The Labor Inspectorate is a regulator that enforces and supervises minimum labor standards.
Newshub reported last week that two community members complained about long working hours, supervised by community leaders “controllers” known as “pastors.”
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“Sometimes you can go two whole days and get some sleep, but then you are expected to go straight back to work,” said one.
Alden Williams / Stuff
Gloriavale leaders are being accused of “breach of duty” towards their people.
A WorkSafe spokesperson said last week that they would do an assessment of Gloriavale’s working conditions in response to the complaints.
“As part of the assessment, WorkSafe inspectors will visit the site to understand what work is being done and how the risks associated with that work are managed. This includes the risks associated with fatigue and well-being. It will also involve requests for relevant documentation and talking to volunteer workers and / or contractors. “
Former member John Ready filed a civil suit last week seeking the removal of Gloriavale’s trustees for alleged misconduct, mismanagement and neglect of duty.
