Nova Iguaçu domestic worker receives R$645 k compensation

A 69‑year‑old woman who had worked as a domestic employee in Nova Iguaçu for 52 years without any contract, salary or social benefits was rescued after a Ministry of Labor investigation. The victim performed household chores, cared for the employer’s child and later acted as caregiver for the ailing employer. Employers claimed she was “part of the family,” but authorities classified the situation as forced labour in conditions analogous to slavery. A settlement signed with the Ministry of Public Labor (MPT‑RJ) provides a total of roughly R$645 000, comprising R$500 000 in severance and indemnity, an immediate R$60 000 payment, 60 monthly installments of about R$5 240, the collection of overdue FGTS contributions and a lifetime pension equal to 75 % of the minimum wage (about R$145 000). The agreement was reached after the victim’s testimony and a hearing before labor auditors, and the payment terms will be overseen by the public prosecutor’s office.