"Being aware of your rights and obligations is one of the most important things employees and employers can do. It helps prevent and resolve disputes regarding workplace entitlements and generates more reliable and productive working environments," said Minister of Economy and Labour Jason Hayward, JP, MP, following his Ministry's latest publication, 'A Guide to Working in Bermuda'.

This comprehensive and easy-to-understand overview of the laws governing working in Bermuda is a reference guide for the Government, agencies, employees, prospective employees and employers should they require assistance. 

"The Ministry of Economy and Labour will continue to ensure that all employees and employers have the tools needed to accomplish this goal," the Minister added.

"Many employees in Bermuda, especially those on work permits seeking assistance from the Ministry of Economy and Labour and its Departments, have admitted being unaware of their employee rights or where they could go for help. 

"Over the past two years, the Ministry of Economy and Labour has made several amendments to Bermuda's employment and labour legislation to align it with international best practices. 

"The value of employment legislation cannot be overstated. Employment legislation helps to stabilise our economy and increases the quality of life within our island by providing safe job opportunities. 

"However, the legislation is of little value to society if it is not known. That is why the Ministry of Economy and Labour is keen to promote public awareness of Bermuda's Employment and Labour Code to employees, employers and the wider community using the Guide to Working in Bermuda."  

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the following aspects of employment:

• Receiving a job offer
• Rights of an employee
• Rights of an employer; and
• Finishing a job

It explains various employment problem areas, such as layoffs, vacation leave entitlement and severance pay, in a way that makes the intent of the legislation easier to understand. 

It also provides a listing of resources for employees and employers to consult regarding issues related to the workplace and helpful information specific to work permit holders. The rights and responsibilities of employees and employers are also captured and explained clearly.

The Guide to Working in Bermuda is a fluid document that will be revisited and amended as the Ministry of Economy and Labour continues to update legislation and support better working conditions for everyone in Bermuda, including employees and employers. 

The publication is easily assessable to all employees, employers, and persons considering employment in Bermuda online in the Labour Relations Office resources section at gov.bm. Furthermore, employers will be required as a part of the work permit process to confirm that work permit holders have been made aware of and provided with a copy of the guide.