The Coordinator for Advocacy of the Working Women’s Centre Timor-Leste(WWCTL), Helven Alberto Bento, said the organizations’ priority is to dignify the work of domestic workers.
Coordinator Bento said the centre will shortly implement an international workshop in Timor-Leste to raise awareness in the community of the work of domestic workers.
“WWCTL exists to protect and dignify the work they do for others,” said Coordinator Bento.
She added WWCTL has also been lobbying the government to draft specific legislation that protects of the rights of domestic workers.
She said also domestic workers need to develop their skills so they can compete in the job market.
Based on a mini survey conducted by WWCTL in late 2013 the majority of domestic workers work without a contract.
Meanwhile the Secretary of State for Vocational Training Policy and Employment (SEPFOPE), Ilidio da Costa Ximenes, said the problems faced by domestic workers are complicated and need specific attention.
He added the plight of domestic workers will have to wait because currently the government is still trying to deal with the compliance with the minimum wage requirements set by the government on employers.
“It is part of SEPFOPE’s future plans but for the moment we are focusing on the general laws in place,” said SE Ximenes.
Maria Fernandes, a domestic worker, feels the government does not treat them the same as they do other type of workers.
According to her the government pays more attention to public servants and those working for NGOs, and in stores and restaurants.
“The employers pay us under $80 every month because they say we stay and eat with them. That is not the actual reason and we work more than 8 hours daily and it is hard work,” said Maria Fernandes.
