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The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in its reports of 1994 and 1995.

1. Articles 10, 11 and 16 of the Convention. The Committee notes that the situation of the inspection service in the country has not improved: the number of inspectors, instead of the required 21, has decreased to four (previously seven), all of whom are presently based at the Head Office; the regions are only served periodically; inspection visits have declined. It further notes that there has been limited improvement to the central office and that local offices still need to be refurbished. The Committee recalls that the number of inspectors and the transport and other facilities provided should be sufficient to ensure that workplaces are inspected as often and as thoroughly as is necessary. It hopes that measures will be taken to improve the application of the Convention and it reiterates its previous suggestion that the Government solicit the assistance of the Office in this regard.

2. Articles 20 and 21(a), (b), (c), (f) and (g). The Committee notes once again that annual labour inspection reports indicated in the Government's reports as having been sent have not reached the Office. The Committee recalls the need to publish and supply to the Office within the time-limits laid down in Article 20 annual labour inspection reports containing all the particulars listed in Article 21. Referring to its comments on Articles 10, 11 and 16 above, the Committee reiterates its suggestion that the Government consider soliciting the ILO assistance so as to envisage resumption of better compliance with the requirements of the Convention in this respect.

3. The Committee takes note with interest of the information that technical assistance is being provided by the Office in drafting a comprehensive Occupational Safety and Health Act which will include provisions on some aspects of inspection. Please provide particulars on developments in this respect.