20 + REPORT OF THE GOVERNOR OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS

Wage and Hour Administration

 During the period 70 complaints were filed with the Division with
regard to wages, and a total of $4,616.07 was recovered on behalf of
the employees. An unrecorded number of minor complaints and
inquiries were settled by on-the-job contacts and examination of
payrolls.
 The Insular Wage Board completed its study of the industries in
the Virgin Islands during the year. As of June 30, four wage orders
were in effect and Wage Order No. 5 had been forwarded to the
Governor for approval.

Legislation

 During the fiscal year under review, Act No. 791 was passed by the
legislature and approved by the Governor providing, among other
things, that the Insular Wage Board follow certain procedures in
establishing minimum wages, such as fixing at least three categories
in each industry. This Act also provided for a 5-day work week
beyond which an employer must pay overtime rates, and for the de-
termination of prevailing wage rates to be used by the Virgin Islands
Employment Service in clearances for nonresident workers.

Labor Relations

 Under the provisions of the Labor Relations Chapter of the Virgin
Islands Code, the number of petitions filed by the labor organizations
for certification was 14. In some instances, certification was made
without an election where the union proved that more than 50 percent
of any group wanted the union. Otherwise, elections were held by
the secret ballot to determine the representative.

Office of Veterans Affairs
 The Office of Veterans Affairs carried out its functions in the usual
manner, educating veterans and their dependents with regard to their
rights and privileges and filing of necessary claims for benefits.
 There were 2,189 contacts made with the Director in and out of
the office.
 Services to enlisted personnel and their dependents have greatly
 increased, especially in St. Croix, due to the lack of Red Cross
personnel.