The Tribune

FREE National Movement (FNM) Senator Arinthia Komolafe has called on the Davis administration to investigate allegations of unsafe working conditions and unfair labour practices at Simpson Penn Centre for Boys.

She was responding to concerns raised by a worker at the centre, who claimed staff were overworked and underpaid at the “understaffed” facility. The longtime employee, speaking anonymously, told Eyewitness News that staff were tired of being treated like “dogs.”

The staff member claimed workers were forced to perform multiple roles and also raised concerns about insufficient security to properly man the facility.

Mrs Komolafe, who serves as the FNM’s shadow minister for social services, information and broadcasting, called the allegations unfortunate and said the concerns warranted an immediate investigation.

“The allegations of unfair labor practices without adequate compensation are unacceptable. It is both unsafe and unhealthy for an individual to work for seven days non-stop with no rest days. We implore the relevant authorities with responsibility for the center, inclusive of the Minister of Social Services to investigate these claims,” the FNM senator said in a statement.

She said it was important for the centre’s recently reported low recidivism rate to be maintained, adding the government has a responsibility to ensure adequate staffing to address the mental, physical, emotional and psychological needs of the young men at the facility.

“A proper staffing ratio is paramount to ensure the security of both staff and residents, the proper rehabilitation of these young men and to prevent any unfortunate incident. International best practices dictate that there should be no more than eight boys per staff member. The staff members should be supported by experts and specialists while the infrastructure of the Centre should be properly maintained.”

“We commend the bravery of the whistleblower who sounded the alarm in the interest of the institution and nation. This latest matter further highlights the need for a robust good governance framework that protects whistleblower.”

A representative from the Department of Social Services said a statement responding to the claims was forthcoming. However, none had been received up to press time.