Presidential order reveals 1,147 wage violations for waste collectors

A nationwide probe into the wages of municipal waste collectors, initiated by President Lee Jae-myung's directive, has uncovered significant irregularities, with 1,147 cases of violations identified. The investigation, conducted over the past three years, focused on whether waste collection service contracts awarded by local governments adequately compensated workers.

The findings revealed two primary types of violations: 586 cases where the appropriate wage was underestimated in the initial contract, and 561 cases where the actual wages paid were less than the amount stipulated in the contract. Additionally, numerous instances were found where mandatory dedicated accounts for labor costs were not being utilized.

This comprehensive survey was a direct response to a report President Lee received on February 19th, indicating that some local governments were failing to adhere to regulations ensuring fair wages for waste collectors. Following this, the President ordered a thorough investigation through audits and surveys.

Kang Yu-jeong, senior spokesperson for the Presidential Office, stated that the Ministry of the Interior and Safety will inform local governments of the findings. The ministry plans to request disciplinary actions against responsible individuals and impose disadvantages on companies found to have violated regulations. Furthermore, the government intends to collaborate with the Ministry of Employment and Labor and other relevant bodies to establish measures for system improvement and enhanced management, aiming to prevent similar issues from recurring.

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The Ministry of the Interior and Safety will inform local governments of the findings. We plan to request disciplinary actions against responsible individuals and impose disadvantages on companies found to have violated regulations.