By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS

Tribune Staff Reporter

lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

THE Department of Labour is investigating The Cricket Club Restaurant and Pub after social media allegations accused the well-known West Bay Street establishment of unsafe working conditions, unpaid wages, and verbal abuse of staff.

Senior Deputy Director of Labour Patrenda Russell-Brice, who is acting as director, confirmed that inspectors will visit the restaurant to assess the claims, which have drawn public attention since a viral Facebook post surfaced over the weekend. She said that even though no formal complaints were filed, the department decided to act after seeing the allegations circulate widely online..

Owner Connie Robinson said the restaurant will close today to allow a full inspection.

“We are here every day, so we want to know what the situation is and what the allegations is and what’s the problem,” she said.

Online posts described the popular restaurant as a “nightmare” behind its public image. It accused Ms Robinson, her daughter Dominique, and sister Tammy of running a toxic workplace where employees are overworked, underpaid, and mistreated.

Unverified claims include staff beginning work as early as 6am, staying late into the evening without pay, and being denied lunch breaks. The post claimed they receive no payslips or overtime pay, often work seven days a week, and risk losing pay if they fall ill or take time off.

It also described filthy and hazardous conditions inside the restaurant, including leaking roofs, rats in the kitchen, and bathrooms so unsanitary that servers are allegedly forced to clean them because management refuses to hire cleaners. The post further alleged that management arguments sometimes turn physical in front of staff and customers.

Workers also claimed their wages were paid in cash and “came up short,” that credit card tips were not fairly shared, and that employees with children were criticised for leaving at the end of their shifts. The post called the situation “systematic abuse” and appealed for government intervention.

Ms Russell-Brice said her department acts on complaints regardless of how they are received.

“If the Department of Labour’s name is called and what have you, and even if not, an investigation will be sent out,” she said. “We get a lot of anonymous complaints. Once we’re made aware of certain things, then we act on that.”

She added that while the department enforces the Employment Act, it also works to educate employers who may not fully understand their legal obligations.

“Sometimes a lot of enterprises, they’re not familiar with the law, the Employment Act, and what have you,” she said. “It’s then the duty of the department to educate employers on certain gaps. We’re to educate the employer. We’re not for one side. We’re for everybody.”

Officials said today’s inspection will include interviews with staff and management. If breaches of the Employment Act are confirmed, the department could direct the restaurant to correct them, though Ms Russell-Brice emphasised that the focus will be on compliance and education rather than punishment.