Chattogram:The Labour and Employment Minister, Ariful Haque Chowdhury, emphasized the importance of training to enhance awareness among workers in various industries, such as ship-breaking, to prevent accidents.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Minister stated that awareness is crucial for addressing workplace safety issues and proposed that awareness programs might be conducted for a month in industrial areas if necessary. These remarks were made during a view-exchange meeting at the Chattogram Circuit House, which focused on labor conditions and occupational health.
The Minister addressed concerns about employers settling cases of worker injuries or deaths with minimal compensation. He noted that discussions with worker representatives, employers, and the administration have been held to address these longstanding issues. A working plan is being developed to resolve worker-employer conflicts in Chattogram, with progress expected by December.
Regarding the closure of numerous factories, the Minister mentioned that some were owned by individuals who misappropriated funds during the previous regime. These individuals borrowed large amounts in the name of industry but laundered the money abroad, leading to factory shutdowns. The government is seeking legal solutions to reopen these factories to protect workers and ensure their rightful payments.
Additionally, the Minister stressed the need for workers to acquire appropriate skills before seeking employment abroad. The goal is to train and send skilled workers that meet the demands of destination countries, ensuring a higher quality workforce for international markets.
The event was attended by Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain, Members of Parliament Ershad Ullah, Abu Sufian, and Sayed Al Noman, the Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Employment Md. Abdur Rahman Tarafder, and Deputy Commissioner Jahidul Islam Mian, among others.