Daimler Truck Convicted In Brazil For Discrimination

RIO DE JANEIRO, Oct 6 (Bernama-dpa) -- The German vehicle manufacturer Daimler Truck has been convicted in Brazil for discrimination against employees and ordered to pay compensation amounting to 40 million reais (US$9.15 million), reported German news agency (dpa).   

Workers who reportedly suffered injuries at work were, upon returning to the Campinas plant, "isolated and subjected to harassing and humiliating situations", the ruling by the regional labour court stated on Saturday. 

Cases of racial discrimination were also reported from the plant in the state of São Paulo. The decision in the second instance can be appealed at the Supreme Labour Court.

A spokeswoman for Mercedes Benz do Brasil, a subsidiary of Daimler Truck, said when asked: "The company does not comment on ongoing cases and emphasises that it takes all measures to respect and protect the health and safety of its employees."

The civil lawsuit was filed by the public prosecutor's office. In addition to the compensation payment, the company must fulfil a series of obligations, including developing internal programmes aimed at preventing harassment and discrimination.

-- BERNAMA-dpa