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Article 5. In reply to previous comments, the Government states that the Association of Entrepreneurs of Azerbaijan was formed only in 1999, so consultations which include employers' representatives have only recently begun. It adds that Decree No. 62, 1999, specifies implementation measures for the Government's policies pertaining to rehabilitation. The Committee notes this information and asks the Government to clarify whether Decree No. 62 requires consultations with organizations of employers, workers and persons with disabilities. It would also appreciate receiving a copy of Decree No. 62.

Article 8. The Government states that an experimental vocational rehabilitation centre has been created in Nakhichevan and the Government is planning similar centres in five other towns. It added that voluntary organizations of disabled persons have created enterprises where disabled persons of different occupations are employed. The Committee notes this information and asks to be kept informed of progress in expanding the vocational rehabilitation centres and employment programmes in rural areas.

Article 9. In reply to previous comments, the Government states that there is one centre with 76 specialists but that no measures have been taken or envisaged to expand training to other vocational rehabilitation staff, due to lack of funds. The Committee draws attention to the obligation to ensure the training and availability or rehabilitation counsellors and other suitably qualified staff responsible for the vocational guidance, vocational training, placement and employment of disabled persons. It would appreciate being kept informed of any progress made in this respect.