[Susan]

I feel a little bit reassured, thank you!
I doubt the company would agree to pay, they will all work on weekends and holidays to find a way out of it. It is a matter of principle, they hate me - I know too much. (And I did my best and thought they were good people, how silly, what a lesson). Anyway, as you advised, I will find a lawyer specializing in labour law (do you know anybody really competent?) and file a claim.

Good point about the visa - will get extension as soon as possible after the claim is registered.

Two questions - I feared they would harrass me and recorded some conversations on a mini recorder. Is this illegal? If yes, I'll just keep it for memories. Do you think the company can get out of it without paying me?

[KnowItAll]

I don't think you need a specialist in labour law.

Recordings... if they're verbally abusive, they'll add some PR value in making your case that you were working in an abusive environment. Let your lawyer figure this one out.

A word of advice, don't discuss this ad-nauseum in a public forum.

[Susan]

Last questions then - when I file my claims, do I need to confront my employer face to face / correspond with them, etc. or can the Labour Dept. representatives do it for me? The Labour Dept. consultants mentioned to me there is no legal representation needed for employees at Labour Tribunal, all is handled by Labour Dept., no need to spend money on lawyers. Is this right?
Anyway, will let you know about the outcomes later... if you are interested, of course.

[gdawe5]

How did this work out Susan?