J&P third-country workers in Saudi Arabia issue new plea for help
Around 5,000 third-country nationals employed by construction giant J&P Overseas in projects in Saudi Arabia said they are now living in camps like prisoners as their work permits have expired and they are unable to move freely in the country. In another letter to the shareholders of the company that is now in liquidation, workers from Sri Lanka, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Nepal and Egypt, said they have yet to see any action from the Joannou and Paraskevaides families, “with regard to our grievances.” The employees had sent another letter earlier in the month... They said they haven’t been paid for six months and they are owed approximately 125 to 150 million Saudi riyals (approximately €35m)... Their health insurance policy has also expired... and they are unable to get any health treatment or medicines from the hospitals. “Some of our colleagues are ailing with life-threatening health issues,” they said, adding that they are unable to travel as their work permit is expired and have no money to buy travel tickets. The company’s local management is unable to provide air ticket and other expenses...