Labour laws changes to protect workers: Minister

Amendments to the Labour Relations Act will enhance the protection of workers, Labour Minister Mildred Oliphant said on Wednesday.

   

"The amendments also seek to bring the provisions relating to child labour in line with international standards and to strengthen the mechanisms for enforcement of basic conditions of employment, including wages," she said in a statement.

   

The Labour Relations Amendment Bill was adopted by the National Assembly on Tuesday.

   

Oliphant said the amendments should help to avoid exploitative practices and to ensure decent work for all workers.

   

"When this bill becomes law, it will prohibit the unethical behaviour of requiring work seekers to pay a fee in order to be placed in employment opportunities.

   

"The law will also prevent employers from forcing employees to purchase goods from the employer's business as a condition of work."

   

-Sapa