Call your trade union for help

For almost two decades, Havnar Arbeiðskvinnufelag (Tórshavn’s Female Workers’ Union) has been working to improve work conditions in the hotel industry.

But, ultimately, there is not much unions can do if the workers do not take the first step.

“We’re here to help, but you need to call us and describe your problems,” says Vígdis Johannesen, chairwoman of Havnar Arbeiðskvinnufelag, referring to this week’s anonymous claim that work conditions in Faroese hotels are "horrendous".

Exercise your rights

“We will then contact the employer and do what we can to resolve the problem, but it is important that you take the initiative and contact your trade union.”

Johannesen adds that no-one should start work without signing a letter of appointment.

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According to lawyer Durita Sigmundsdóttir Djurhuus, it is the employer’s duty to provide this letter of appointment.

“All employers are bound by law to ensure that new workers are given all relevant information about their job,” she says.

“We have seen cases where letters of appointment exist but the employee had no access to it. The law states that employees are entitled to read and consent to the terms and conditions of employment.”

(Editor’s note: it is highly likely that anyone you call in the Faroe Islands speaks and understands English.)

Read the Faroese version of this article here.

Translated by prosa.fo.

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