Concerns raised over worker exploitation at catering business in Keflavík and Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

A man operating a catering business in Keflavík and the Vatnajökull National Park service center in Skaftafell is facing accusations of exploiting workers without employment permits. This includes a asylum seeker housed by the Icelandic Directorate of Labor at a hotel associated with the businessman.

Concerns regarding Ahmed Munir’s practices have been raised repeatedly by labor union leaders, particularly due to his management of establishments like Biryani Kebab in Reykjanesbær, and a previously shuttered restaurant in Keflavík due to health violation orders.

Union representatives, Hjördís Þóra Sigurþórsdóttir and Guðbjörg Kristmundsdóttir, expressed their support for Munir’s employees, helping them navigate what they describe as unacceptable working conditions. Reports indicate that employees without valid work permits, including the mentioned asylum seeker, were employed at Munir’s establishments, even while living at a hotel partly owned by Munir’s business partner.

Sigurþóra criticized Vatnajökull National Park for its apparent indifference toward staff working conditions. She insisted that the issues tied to Munir’s businesses reflect a broader exploitation of foreign workers.

Munir, in a brief interview, denied all allegations and claimed no connection to the mentioned hotel, stating he no longer conducts business with its owner.

According to the finance and operations director of Vatnajökull National Park, Munir’s contract with the park expired on October 15, making resolution of these issues more complex, as there had been no evidence of criminal activity from the operator. Further developments on this situation are expected to be addressed on Monday.