Sixty-one former members of Gloriavale are seeking millions of dollars in compensation, alleging they were subjected to forced child labour, further forced labour and servitude while living in the West Coast religious community.
The claims have been filed with the Employment Relations Authority against the person currently holding the position of Overseeing Shepherd, who the Employment Court has previously found was the employer of Gloriavale members
The former members allege they were denied minimum employment entitlements throughout their years of work in the community, including minimum wages, annual leave, public holiday pay, rest and meal breaks, KiwiSaver contributions, and written employment agreements.
They claim they were born into, or entered as children, a highly controlled environment where they were required to work from an early age and had little or no choice about where, when or for whom they worked.
It’s alleged they worked long hours, were dependent on the community for food and accommodation, and subjected to emotional and psychological control.
Dr Claire Achmad said the school should not remain open and called on the government to show bravery and protect children's rights. (Source: 1News)
The claims follow a landmark 2022 Employment Court ruling which found former Gloriavale members were employees rather than volunteers, and that children were working full-time in the community.
The court found there was ready access to child labour, that members had little choice about whether they worked, and that discipline could include public shaming, deprivation of food and lengthy reprimands before community leaders.
The former members are seeking $40 million, as well exemplary damages, arguing the alleged treatment was particularly serious.
The group has also filed a separate application seeking leave to raise personal grievance claims outside the statutory time limits.
The Employment Relations Authority must first decide whether those claims could proceed before considering the merits of the case and the compensation sought.
Gloriavale has been approached for comment.
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