A Jamaican has been convicted and fined for violating the labour laws of Antigua & Barbuda, THE STAR has learnt.

He is 33-year-old Natango Norman Whynn who pleaded guilty to working without a work permit.

According to a report in the Antigua Observer, Whynn was fined $1,500 or six months in prison.

The court heard that during 2010 he was employed at the Antigua and Barbuda Christian Media Network (ACN) located on Long Street.

He subsequently submitted an application for a skilled certificate as a media worker after making enquiries at the Labour Department.

The court heard that the application was scrutinised by the free movement desk.

His passport was inspected and it was found that it did not contain a work permit.

media network

When he was questioned Whynn informed labour officials that he was on training at the media network.

He denied that he was receiving a salary and added that the $300 he was getting was for travelling.

He was advised not to return to work at ACN without first obtaining the relevant work documents.

THE STAR understands that sometime in 2011, the Labour Department received information that the Jamaican was still working in the country.

Investigations were carried out and he was found to be working at ACN.

THE STAR further understands that Whynn was taken to the Labour Department and interviewed and charges were later laid against him and his employer.

In the meantime, Marilyn Williams, who appeared on behalf of the Labour Department, said that the Jamaican had been employed at ten other establishments. He however denied this allegation.