Another resort in Collingwood has confirmed it employed workers who were victims of an alleged human-trafficking ring.
Living Water Resorts issued a news release today stating the company employed contracted housekeeping services from the company under investigation for the past year at a rate of $21 per hour.
The resort staff and ownership say they were unaware of abuses against those workers they hired on contract.
The resort cut ties with the third-party contractor immediately after learning of the alleged abuse, according to the news release.
During a news conference held Monday in Barrie, police announced some workers lived in poor conditions, including in a house on Dunlop Street East, and had their wages controlled and withheld. The workers were also made to pay for transportation and accommodation.
Barrie Police Services, OPP and Canada Border Service Agency announced 43 victims of an alleged labour human-trafficking ring were rescued last week in what police are calling a “modern-day slavery” operation.
Blue Mountain Resort also employed contract workers from the same agency, but resort staff said they didn't know about the alleged abuses, and have since offered the workers jobs at the resort.
Living Water Resort staff have since been working with two local churches, a taxi company and a local Spanish Club to offer help to those affected.
“It saddens us to hear of this happening,” said Larry Law, owner of Living Water Resorts. “It is important that we come together as a community to help those in need, especially those within our backyard.”
According to the Living Water news release, in the wake of the allegations, resort staff have begun working with Ace Transportation and Victim Services to shuttle the workers to Living Water Resort where they received free accommodation, hot meals, and were offered jobs at the resort.
Journey Community Church and the Spanish Club of Collingwood offered to assist with translation needs and emotional support.
The Salvation Army Church provided clothing and personal hygiene essentials, and some resort employees have helped with basic living needs and support for the victims.
Living Water Resort is also accepting donations for the victims of the alleged human trafficking ring. Donations can be dropped off at the Living Stone Golf Resort and Living Water Resort and Spa properties; donations will be given to the workers.
