Case of stranded Sawadi Beach Resort workers to be heard next month in Oman

Muscat: Stranded Sawadi Beach Resort workers will not learn of their fate until at least June 6, as their employer again failed to appear at a labour dispute department meeting, according to workers.
“We were hoping that the employer will come and the issue would be settled. However, only his lawyer came. Our side was represented by our lawyer. The hearing has been postponed to June 6,” Suleiman Khalid Kazi, the manager of the resort, who is among the 28 stranded workers, told Times of Oman. The workers were left without food, water and power after the resort closed on March 11.
However, Oman trade union members came forward to support the workers by providing food and legal support. After news of their plight was reported by Times of Oman, a popular Facebook page in Oman, What’s Happening Muscat Oman (WHMO), also launched a campaign to collect food and other items for the stranded workers.
The WHMO members raised money and collected needed personal items for the stranded workers. Further, members of the group have paid some of the workers’ debts, including school fees and loans. Sarah Greenwood, a WHMO member, has been on her phone talking to the stranded workers and updating WHMO members. “It is very worrying for everyone concerned. No one should have to live in such conditions,” she said.
Meanwhile, workers said that it is quite difficult to cope, especially. “We have families back home, and we have been not able to send money to them, since salaries are pending. It will be quite hard for them during the holy month of Ramadan. So we hope the case is settled soon,” a worker added.