Local manufacturers are worried about alleged mistreatment of Chinese labourers working in Trinidad and Tobago.

The Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association yesterday called on the authorities to investigate and resolve the matter.

’It should be noted that the workers’ employers are subject to Trinidad and Tobago’s laws and as such as expected to comply with regulations regarding (the) Occupational Safety and Health Act (2004) which states that an employer must ensure safety, health and welfare at work of all employees,’ the TTMA said in a statement yesterday.

About 85 Chinese workers contracted with the Beijing Luijuan Construction Corporation downed tools on Tuesday to protest working and living conditions.

They said they have not been paid in two months.

The TTMA said a ’thorough investigation into the claims of mistreatment of the Chinese immigrant workers is warranted and the results of this probe made public’.

Government must investigate these allegations and ensure that International Labour Organisation conventions regarding labour issues are upheld, the TTMA added.