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The Committee notes the information provided in the Government’s detailed report in reply to points raised in its previous direct request.

1. Article 1 of the Convention. The Government states that the problem of employment is a particular worry for the Government and that the role of women is of utmost importance. The third economic plan covers economic, social and educational projects. At least half of the measures taken were aimed at promoting employment in rural areas, with priority placed on self-employment and apprenticeships. The Government has set up a system of 300 specialists to gather information on the job market and to help jobseekers to find jobs. It also has allowed 83 private placement agencies to operate an extensive placement network both inside and outside the country.

2. The number of vocational training centres increased from 205 in 1998 to 295 in 1999, with 389,933 people receiving training. The Government also expanded the range of programmes offered, especially in industry and agriculture. The number of private training centres also increased, which cater in particular to the needs of employed people. The number of training centres for women increased from 47 in 1998 to 97 in 1999. The Government plans to further expand access to training in rural areas through the use of mobile educational teams. The Organization for Technical and Professional Training also certifies the skills of workers, and issued 600,000 certificates in 1999. The Government also provides detailed information on the numerous programmes aimed at promoting employment of women, particularly women heads of households and women in rural areas. The Committee notes this information and would appreciate receiving further details on the impact of these measures on employment promotion. Please also supply the information requested in the report form on the situation, level and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment, both in the aggregate and as they affect particular categories of workers such as women, young persons, older workers and disabled workers.

3. Article 2. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that employment policy is based on a detailed analysis of the opportunities and problems in the labour market. Please provide further information on how employment policies and programmes are kept under review within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy.

4. Article 3. Please provide information on the manner in which consultations are held with representatives of employers, workers and other groups, such as rural and informal sector workers, and on the outcome of these consultations.