Govt. to make complete review of existing labour laws: PM

ISLAMABAD : Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has stated that the present government was going for a complete and comprehensive review of the country’s existing labour laws in order to bring them in conformity with the International Labour Standards.
“The objective is to ensure the provisions of basic rights to workers under the universally observed fundamental principles”, he said in his message on the international labour day.
The Prime Minister said keeping in view the ideals of Islam as our guiding principles, the present government has committed itself to bring a visible improvement in the lives of the working class.
“We are committed to the promotion of decent working conditions in the country and ensuring effective social protection to the workers.”
He said all such laws, regulations and systems would be abolished which support any opportunity of exploitation of the work force.
“Freedom of association and Collective Bargaining are the fundamental rights that were denied to certain segments of workers over the past decade; our government has restored this right to all the workers without discrimination”, he added.
The Prime Minister said while the government is taking all possible measures for the welfare and well being of workers, it also expects from them to use all their energies for the socio-economic development of the country.
At the same time, he said, it must be remembered that industrial peace and harmony is the basic ingredient of industrial progress and prosperity of the people.
“Trade unions have to redefine their role for greater discipline and higher productivity through awareness and education.”
The Prime Minister said he was confident that both the partners of production—the workers and the employers—will build upon their capabilities to make Pakistan a model of socio economic development, better living standards and respect for the internationally recognized rights of the working class.
He also paid homage to the struggle of the martyrs of Chicago, who refused to submit before the forces of oppression, and gallantly stood for their rights of better working and living conditions.
“Their struggle indeed, proved instrumental in bringing dignity to the working class. We stand committed to demonstrate our solidarity and support for such movements, which have been founded upon right and justice, as well as inspired their adherents with the willingness to sacrifice for their cause,” he added.
The Prime Minister said protection of human rights is the bedrock of Islamic teachings, and so is the dignity and respect for labour.
“Our religion greatly stresses for honesty, hard work and observance of mutual obligations that lead to harmonious relationship between the employers and the employees”, he added.