LOCAL BRIEFS Garment firm reinstated

LOCAL BRIEFS

Garment firm
reinstated

The Saipan Garment Manufacturers Association reinstated yesterday Diorva/Micronesian Garment Manufacturing, Inc. to SGMA’s “member in good standing” status.

The company, along with another SGMA member factory, had been leveled a 30-day temporary suspension by the group pending internal investigations.

SGMA, after conferring with labor officials, company lawyer, representatives and employees of MGM/Diorva, issued the reinstatement when all remaining back wages were paid in full to the employees in the presence of the attorney, a U.S. Labor official and representatives from an apparel buyer.

SGMA has placed it under a one-year probationary period where any similar and further violations will result in immediate action. including notification of buyers, monetary penalties and possible expulsion from permanent membership.

The other garment firm is still under investigation during the temporary suspension. Disposition will be finalized once an SGMA team of monitors conclude their investigation and issue their findings to the board of directors. This team is comprised of wage monitors, health and safety, translation monitors and DOLI inspectors.

SGMA expects to receive reports after DOLI health and safety inspections and will consider results from the DOLI hearing scheduled for February 22 regarding the improper deductions from the workers’ checks.

Miss NMI pageant
on Feb. 28

An evening of “Enchanting Reflections” is on the way.

On February 28, the Northern Marianas Beauty Pageant Association is proud to present the 25th anniversary 1999 Miss NMI Pageant at the Hotel Nikko Theater Hall beginning at 7 p.m. Doors will open at 6 p.m. and will close at 7 p.m.

Tickets are now on sale at Liberty Plaza, First Floral and the Marianas Variety. Witness the glamour and excitement the pageant has to offer as we celebrate our Spanish heritage.

DPS advisory

The Department of Public Safety is currently experiencing problems with their computers. As a result, they are asking individuals who need to pick up “complaint” reports (traffic accident, domestic, etc.) to call and verify its completion before making the trip.

The number to call is 664-9066. Your patience and understanding is immensely appreciated.