CMNT_TITLE_CAS



A Government representative indicated that his country had made progress with regard to the application of the Convention. The protection of the rights and living conditions of both national and migrant workers was an important part of the Government’s policies, particularly reflected in the recruitment programmes for migrant workers. He indicated that Qatar wished to continue its collaboration with the ILO in the areas of international labour standards and decent work, and recalled that the General Secretary of Amnesty International had recently commended the Government on the country’s receptiveness to work with human rights organizations and those engaged in the protection of migrant workers. In addition to government bodies, a number of national entities were monitoring the rights of migrant workers, for example, the National Human Rights Committee. Qatar’s economy had attracted an increasing numbers of migrant workers in numerous sectors. In 2014, the number of those workers living in Qatar had reached 1.7 million, that is, 85 per cent of the total population, which constituted a challenge for labour inspection. Qatar had therefore requested ILO technical assistance for the training of labour inspectors, both at the national level and at the Turin Centre. Furthermore, interpreters had been appointed to enable migrant workers to explain their needs to labour inspectors. The regular communication of annual labour inspection reports showed the developments that had been made in law and practice. Furthermore, the upgrading of the previous labour inspection body into a labour inspection department at the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, as noted by the Committee of Experts in its 2011 observation, had greatly enhanced the role of labour inspection. The geographical structure of labour inspection had been expanded, as shown in an organizational chart annexed to the Government’s last report to the Committee of Experts under article 22 of the ILO Constitution, and the number of its labour inspectors had been increased to 198. Such inspectors were granted several financial incentives in order to attract candidates to the post of labour inspectors and to respond to the growing need for human resources. Modern and mobile computer equipment had been provided to inspectors to enable them to enter data and immediately send inspection reports to the territorial directorates, which saved time and efforts and facilitated their work. Moreover, efforts were currently being made to connect the special national mapping system to a GPS system to facilitate access to undertakings liable to inspection. Such measures had led to an increase in the number of inspection visits from 46,624 in 2012 to 50,538 in 2013, that is, an increase of 8.4 per cent.

In relation to the request of the Committee of Experts concerning women inspectors, the Government representative referred to the national legal framework prohibiting discrimination between men and women in employment, and providing for equality of all citizens before the law. Among other laws, he referred to Act No. 8 of 2009 governing public servants, which did not provide for any distinction with regard to wages or other conditions of service between men and women. The Regulations governing labour inspection provided for the same opportunities for the promotion and training of labour inspectors, without any distinction concerning their gender. Labour inspection posts were open to women without any restriction. Among the 198 labour inspectors at the Department of Labour, 16 were women, representing 8.1 per cent. Inspection visits were carried out in accordance with international standards, and included both regular and surprise inspection visits, as well as necessary measures to detect and enforce non-compliance with the law. Furthermore, labour inspections had become more efficient as a result of enhanced training at the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs and the exchange of experiences with other countries, including the provision of occupational safety and health (OSH) training courses by the ILO Regional Office for Arab States in Beirut, and the provision of training courses by the ILO Turin Centre. It was worth mentioning that the Committee of Experts had previously noted with satisfaction the progress made by Qatar concerning the subjects covered by the annual labour inspection reports. The Labour Inspection Department had carried out 10,500 labour inspection visits in the first quarter of 2014, 7,015 of which related to general conditions of work, covering 6,523 undertakings. In relation to OSH inspection, 3,485 visits had been carried out covering 920 undertakings. The results of these inspection visits were as follows: in 79.9 per cent of cases no violations were detected; in 1.2 per cent of the cases non-compliance reports were issued, in 3 per cent of cases, prohibition notices were issued and in 15.9 per cent of cases, warning notices were issued, aimed at remedying violations. Laws and regulations were continuously reviewed to provide for the protection of workers, while taking the characteristics of Qatar’s society, and its cultural, economic and religious background into account. Regulations were currently being developed to address the specific risks for workers in the construction sector. Amendments to the Labour Code, aimed at increasing penalties for non-compliance with OSH requirements were also currently being drafted. Both the Labour Code and Ministerial Decisions contained many OSH requirements, as well as compensation for occupational accidents and fatal accidents, and corresponding penalties for non-compliance. Ministerial Decision No. 16 of 2011 provided for the establishment of a National OSH Committee, composed by representatives of different governmental bodies and chaired by representatives of the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. This Committee was responsible for the following tasks: (1) propose a national OSH policy and programme; (2) examine the causes for occupational accidents, and propose prevention means to avoid their occurrence; (3) propose and review regulations and rules on occupational safety and health; (4) propose mechanisms for the implementation of OSH laws and regulations; (5) provide OSH advisory services; (6) review and provide for the development of the conditions for industrial accidents and diseases insurance, and compensation in accordance with the Labour Code; (7) review the occupational diseases schedule annexed to the aforementioned Labour Code, and propose its development in coordination with relevant bodies; (8) undertake studies and research in the area of OSH; and (9) examine and study international Conventions and Recommendations on OSH, as well as provide its views and recommendations thereon. Hospitals and medical centres had been set up in all regions, and new ones were envisaged to meet the needs of migrant workers. The Labour Code required an employer to provide a health card at his or her expense to a migrant worker, in accordance with the regulations in force. The Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Qatar, was in the process of preparing a wage protection system, which would soon be finalized and would oblige all employers to transfer wages to bank accounts of workers. This system would enable labour inspectors to electronically monitor and follow up on the payment of salaries and quickly detect delays in the payment of wages. The Government concluded by indicating that it would submit a detailed report in reply to the observation of the Committee of Experts in the course of this year, and that it was determined to continue to work with the ILO to ensure workers safety and health.

The Worker members recalled that during the past year, the eyes of the world had been on the situation of some 1.5 million migrant workers in Qatar. The United Nations organizations, especially the ILO, human rights organizations, the media and researchers had all made the same observation: migrant workers, who represented 80 per cent of the total population of the country, were experiencing difficult conditions, exploited by their employers and caught up in a sponsorship system which, in practice, did not allow them to change their job or to leave it without the authorization of those infringing their rights. This system continued to exist partly because there was no effective labour inspection service or labour justice framework effectively protecting these workers. The international trade union movement had, on many occasions, called upon the Government to act on these specific cases of exploitation, through the Labour Inspectorate. However, it had never taken action but merely made promises. The Government should immediately adopt specific measures to protect the safety and health of migrant workers in construction and domestic workers, who were often subjected to brutality and rape on the part of their employers. Article 10 of the Convention stipulated that the number of labour inspectors should be sufficient to secure the effective discharge of the duties of the inspectorate. Yet in Qatar there were 150 labour inspectors to cover a foreign labour force estimated to be in the region of 1.5 million workers. This was totally inadequate. Moreover, questions could be raised as to the accuracy of the number of inspection visits reported by the Government. If the numbers it had given were correct, the labour inspectors had to carry out these inspections at a rapid pace, at the expense of quality. Complaints made by hundreds of workers questioned in the many labour camps focused on the confiscation of their passports, the non-payment of wages, the refusal to grant them identity papers and the squalor of their accommodation, all of which pointed to the shortcomings of a labour inspectorate that was described by the Government as being sound. All the accounts given by the workers in Qatar concurred that they had never seen a labour inspector inspect a work site. The training of labour inspectors was also an issue. The inspectors had not been adequately trained, especially from a linguistic point of view, and did not have the necessary resources to carry out their work successfully. Being unable to communicate with the vast majority of workers in the country, they were therefore incapable of conducting effective inspections. The Government presumed that workers brought problems to the attention of the competent authorities. The fact, however, was that the majority of workers did not submit complaints to the concerned authorities because they were afraid of reprisal, losing their job or being expelled from the country. A report published in June 2011 by the National Human Rights Commission of Qatar gave an account of this state of affairs.

Article 18 of the Convention provided for adequate penalties for violations of the legal provisions, the application of which was monitored by labour inspectors. Even if the work sites and work camps were inspected, the inspection services had limited powers to have their decisions applied or to monitor their application. Many violations of the labour legislation did not result in specific fines. Although penalties existed for forced labour and trafficking in persons, these were not correctly applied. All this information was stated in the conclusions of the tripartite committee set up to examine the representation against Qatar under article 24 of the ILO Constitution. Article 17 of the Convention stated that persons who violated or neglected to observe legal provisions enforceable by labour inspectors should be liable to legal proceedings. Nonetheless, there were serious obstacles preventing access to justice. Migrant workers found it difficult to have access to the Labour Court because they were obliged to pay a large sum, which they did not always have, (600 riyals) to lodge a complaint, and they often had to wait several months before a ruling was made. The tripartite committee had called upon the Government to guarantee access to justice without delay to the migrant workers, so that they might assert their rights effectively, including by means of strengthening the complaints mechanism and the labour inspection system. The Worker members requested the Government to take the measures required to establish an effective labour inspection system with a view to preventing or putting right any infringements of the labour legislation, which were prevalent and serious. The Government no doubt had the necessary resources, now needing the political will.

The Employer members stated that the first reason for the examination of this case by the Conference Committee was that the Government needed to provide better reports, as the Committee of Experts had observed that it was not providing the necessary information in the required form. The second reason, which was widely publicized in the media, regarded migrant workers engaged in building infrastructure for the 2022 Football World Cup. The Government had commissioned an investigative report, from an external corporate law firm, which contained ten pages on the subject of labour inspection. They were encouraged by the fact that few migrant workers had died on job sites, which meant that some labour inspection was occurring in a somewhat effective manner. They noted with interest, from the observations of the Committee of Experts, that the 150 labour inspectors (number which subsequently increased to 200) had performed close to 47,000 inspections in 2012, up from 2,240 inspections in 2004. The low number of inspectors in relation to the high number of inspections meant that each inspector performed a large number of inspections on an annual basis, leading them to wonder how thorough and effective the inspections were in reality. The external report mentioned that each labour inspector had a quota of two inspections a day, leading to a lack of thoroughness of reports, and that additional responsibilities, such as the inspection of workers’ housing, increased inspector workloads and further compromised effectiveness. It was specified that the Government planned to add 100 inspectors, which would hopefully result in better inspections. The external report made a number of suggestions, namely: hiring more labour inspectors; bolstering the powers of inspectors, who were currently only able to issue recommendations and did not have the power to issue sanctions; improving coordination with the justice system to prosecute violations; reducing the minimum number of inspections per inspector; and taking steps for inspectors to receive comprehensive training to better assume their role. They acknowledged that the Government was doing what it could and by hoping the situation would be effectively supervised.

The Employer member of Qatar stated that Qatari employers were firmly behind the need to ensure that OSH was guaranteed to all workers and that concrete measures were taken, in all sectors of the economy, to ensure that workers had good working conditions and that inspections were carried out. The country’s economic condition attracted large numbers of migrant workers and, considering development at the expense of human life was unacceptable, the creation of a solid labour inspection base was of paramount importance. In order to deal with the increased pressure resulting from the influx of workers, the number of inspectors had increased from 150 to 200 and legislation had been enacted, or was in the process of being enacted. The Government should make sure labour inspections proceeded in an effective manner, which would necessitate the implementation of numerous measures. It was pointed out that in the past years, Qatari employers had cooperated with the Government and had endeavoured to provide inputs in order to find solutions for the development of OSH and the improvement of worker awareness. With regard to statistics and data, the employers agreed with the Committee of Experts that the current system was not fully comprehensive, and therefore urged the Government to take every possible measure to comply with the requirements of the Convention. Qatari employers reiterated their willingness to cooperate with the Government in ensuring that labour inspection functioned properly.

The Government member of France noted that Qatar had ratified five of the eight fundamental ILO Conventions and one of four governance Conventions, and she encouraged the Government to continue its effort for ratification. She welcomed the progress that had been made in bringing the labour legislation into line with international standards implementing fundamental labour rights and principles. The migrant workers legislation must fully recognize workers’ freedom of association and of movement. However, the organization and functioning of the labour inspectorate did not, so far, make it possible for it to monitor the implementation of legislation effectively, or to identify and eradicate forced labour. The Government had chosen to support major important international human rights causes and was set to host the Thirteenth United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in 2015. A quality, independent and efficient labour inspection system would be proof of the Government’s credibility.

The Worker member of Norway, speaking on behalf of the trade unions of the Nordic countries and of the Netherlands, recalled that the report of the tripartite committee of the Governing Body set up to examine the representation against Qatar under article 24 of the ILO Constitution had confirmed that migrant workers found themselves in situations prohibited by the Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29). Such situations were facilitated by contract substitution, inability to leave the employment relationship or country, non-payment of wages or threats of retaliation. Based on current trends, the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) had estimated that at least 4,000 workers would die by 2020, from accidents but also from heart attacks caused by heat, stress and poor living conditions. The available statistics indicated that the number of deaths in the workplace was three to four times higher than the European average. Despite some protections in the Labour Law, the violations demonstrated that this legislation was not properly enforced. Workers did not have access to effective mechanisms to remedy these violations. Migrants had difficulty accessing the available complaint mechanisms, partly because of lack of information, legal aid and interpreters, and partly because of fear of retaliation. Additionally, one such mechanism, the National Human Rights Committee, had limited means and powers. This body had downplayed the seriousness of the situation of migrant workers, undermining its independence and effectiveness. Additionally, statistics on workplace accidents were not published in Qatar and the existing statistics were very incomplete. The Government was therefore urged to take measures to ensure that workplaces were effectively inspected, that inspectors were properly trained and recruited, and to provide relevant statistical data regarding inspection visits, industrial accidents and cases of occupational diseases. The Government was also enjoined to ensure easy access to effective judiciary mechanisms for workers, as those currently available provided little, if any, remedy for migrant workers trapped in severe forms of exploitation.

The Government member of Morocco observed that the labour inspectorate had been reorganized and that efforts were being made to reinforce labour inspection in order to achieve conformity with the Convention. The experts had welcomed the progress made. There were some 200 labour inspectors, of whom 8.1 per cent were women, and who had been adequately trained for the proper performance of their duties, resulting in a considerable increase in the number of inspections conducted. In addition, the National Human Rights Commission of Qatar had observed progress in the observance of human rights. With an eye to the organization of the 2022 Football World Cup, the Government had adopted significant measures in areas such as OSH. There was no question that the authorities wished to reinforce labour inspection. In conclusion, everyone, including the ILO, needed to encourage the Government to continue improving conditions of work, including those of labour inspectors.

An observer representing the Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI) indicated that the BWI had conducted two missions in Qatar, in October 2013 and March 2014, visiting construction sites and labour camps, interviewing workers in private and meetings with the ambassadors of different countries represented in Qatar, the Ministry of Labour and other entities. A large number of fatalities had been reported, causes of which included a gas explosion and heart failure presumably due to the life threatening effects of heat stroke, exhaustion, lack of proper nutrition, excessive working hours and miserable working conditions. Moreover, annually, over 1,000 construction workers were treated for falls, and 10 per cent of them were facing permanent disability. The deaths and serious injuries were not recorded or reported by the Ministry of Labour, their circumstances were not investigated, no cases were prosecuted and no fines or penalties were imposed. The number of recorded cases of occupational accidents and diseases, in relation to the country’s workforce, was clearly grossly underestimated. Of the 150 labour inspectors in post at the time of the BWI missions, only 33 were qualified in OSH and none specialized in construction. Labour laws were not properly enforced, illegal practices were endemic and prevention measures on the part of the labour inspectorate were wholly inadequate. Interviews with workers also revealed numerous cases of worksite accidents that had not been followed up by labour inspection, trade unions were banned and laws were regularly violated. Interviewed workers complained of the consequences of the kafala system, including illegal payments to employment agents, withholding of documents, non-payment of wages, poor nutrition and hygiene facilities, and restricted freedom of movement. It was likely that another million migrant workers would find their way to Qatar for construction work before 2022. Therefore, the BWI urged the Government to ratify relevant OSH Conventions, namely Occupational Safety and Health Convention, 1981 (No. 155) and Safety and Health in Construction Convention, 1988 (No. 167). Firm laws and their effective implementation were necessary. Without effective, independent labour inspection and enforcement, it was unlikely that the various new charters and standards, which were being published, but did not constitute law, would be effective. However, even an army of labour inspectors would not be the answer. Without trade union rights, rights to organize and to participate in the workplace, there could be no credible system to ensure human and labour rights, including OSH. This was a humanitarian crisis that required urgent attention and remedies. Therefore, the BWI called for all migrant workers in Qatar to have the right to form and join unions.

The Government member of Switzerland encouraged the Government to continue increasing the number of labour inspectors, particularly in the construction sector. At the time of recruitment of new inspectors, it should be ensured that the conditions of their recruitment and exercise of their functions were in line with the terms of the Convention. A special effort should be made in the area of training so as to ensure that inspections were carried out in accordance with high quality standards. Those inspections should be carried out independently and regularly. The health and safety of workers should thereby be strengthened by the effective implementation of the Convention. While noting efforts underway to revise the right to work in Qatar, particularly in order to include new groups of workers, he indicated that it was equally important to implement the current legal provisions on the protection of workers. The Swiss Government would continue to offer its expertise and cooperation regarding labour migration by exchanging experiences and information on good practices. He welcomed the Qatari Government’s decision to abolish the sponsorship system: a practice which led to the excessive restriction of the exercise of fundamental rights and freedoms.

An observer representing the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) stated that while construction and domestic workers faced the most serious workplace and industrial relations problems in Qatar, migrant workers in all sectors suffered from the lack of an adequate labour inspectorate. Despite several protections in the Labour Law relating to protection against dismissal on the grounds of having obtained maternity leave or due to marriage, a company in the country maintained policies that were in direct contradiction of these provisions of the Labour Law. If labour inspection in the country had been adequate, such discriminatory practices that violated national law would have been uncovered. There were only six women employed by the labour inspection services, and addressing issues such as maternity discrimination and harassment would require more female labour inspectors. The Government was therefore encouraged to ensure that the labour inspectorate was adequately staffed with female inspectors, and that the inspectorate properly covered the transport sector, including road transport, as well as large state-owned companies.

The Government member of Sudan pointed out that Qatar witnessed a significant influx of migrant workers who wanted to work in order to benefit from the interesting wages offered in return for their participation in the economic development projects in the country. The authorities of Qatar had to meet a challenge arising from the increasing numbers of migrant workers, especially in the area of inspection, monitoring and ensuring the good application of labour regulations. To this end, the ILO had provided technical assistance and its help in raising the capacity building of inspectors. This in turn helped Qatar implement the fundamental rights and principles at work, which were all agreed upon in different ILO Conventions. The Government was set on promoting and developing the labour inspection system in law and in practice, as well as on concretely improving the working conditions of migrant workers. The Government deployed efforts to avoid any discrimination against women especially through the promulgation of laws and regulations which guaranteed equal opportunities between men and women, and subsequent monitoring by the competent Qatari authorities. Finally, he welcomed the measures implemented for the inspection of construction sites and for the establishment of the necessary health infrastructure, whose aim was to fulfil the needs of migrant workers in addition to the preparation of a wage protection system based on Qatari banks.

The Worker member of Tunisia welcomed the information that there had been an increase in the number of labour inspectors, particularly women inspectors, in the Labour Inspectorate. Nonetheless, information was still required on the impact of these achievements on migrant workers. The Government should be invited, at the next session of the International Labour Conference, to provide detailed information on: the way in which the Labour Inspectorate carried out its duties to protect workers, in particular the fundamental rights of migrant works; the social security measures adopted for this category of workers; and the statistics on the number of accidents and occupational diseases registered. The Government should increase inspection on night work and women’s work. The inspection visits should cover all workers in the country. Finally, some workers were expelled from the country whereas others, like the Tunisian journalist, were prevented from leaving. The ILO should call upon the Government to put an end to these practices.

The Government member of Norway speaking on behalf of the Nordic countries shared the concerns raised about the working and living conditions of migrant workers who made up 95 per cent of the workforce in Qatar. Hundreds of thousands more migrant workers were expected to be recruited for the 2022 Football World Cup, while already a high number of fatal accidents had occurred on relevant construction sites. The disquieting number of work-related accidents and the insufficient activities of the labour inspection in the construction sector were alarming. Statistics provided by the Government about the number of inspectors and inspections carried out in 2012 were considered surprising when compared to the number of inspectors and inspection visits carried out in Norway. In Norway, 300 labour inspectors carried out 15,000 inspections per year, while in Qatar 150 inspectors carried out 46,000 inspections. This was hard to understand and she questioned the efficiency and effectiveness of labour inspections carried out in Qatar. The Government was strongly recommended to actively promote the improvement of working conditions of foreign workers and to provide them with the necessary legal protection by improving the labour inspection capacity in the construction sector. This should be guaranteed and demonstrated by the enforcement of relevant regulation and standards for which an effective labour inspection system was crucial.

The Worker member from Libya presented the case of a women worker who was dismissed from her job but subsequently unable to leave the country as she had not obtained an exit visa, a requirement for any worker to leave the country. Thousands of workers faced a similar situation. The exit visa was part of the sponsorship system (kafala) and constituted a serious obstacle especially to workers who had fallen ill or were dismissed. The Government was called upon to abolish the sponsorship system. Rights of workers were human rights, and the labour inspectorate was presumed to play an important role in protecting workers’ and human rights, and to end labour exploitation.

The Government representative raised a point of order, requesting that the Worker member of Libya not expand her intervention beyond the subjects raised by the Committee of Experts. Consequently, the Worker member of Libya was asked by the Chairperson to limit her observations to the issue under discussion.

The Worker members raised a point of order against the Government representative, requesting him to refrain from making accusations against the support of an official to the Worker member of Libya. Subsequently, the Chairperson requested the Government representative to let the Worker member of Libya continue her intervention, and recalled that the Government representative could make use of his right to reply at the appropriate moment.

The Government member of the Russian Federation was somewhat intrigued by the very high increase in the number of labour inspections carried out during the past years and wished to congratulate the Government for these brilliant statistical results. Some members of the Committee had nevertheless expressed doubts on the statistics submitted and stated that it would not be an easy task to keep them up in the future. It was also vital to ensure the quality of the inspections carried out, to improve the training of inspectors and to increase the number of women labour inspectors. Moreover, it was expected that the number of migrant workers, which was already very high, would increase considerably to take up the Herculean task of building the necessary infrastructure for the 2022 football World Cup, which would represent an enormous challenge for the labour inspection services. The Government should therefore continue to keep the Committee of Experts informed in detail of the measures taken to apply the Convention.

The Government member of Lebanon acknowledged the efforts made by the Government to comply with the provisions of the Convention. Already measures were taken to better protect workers such as reduced or suspended working hours during the hottest period of the day. Large resources in the country allowed the Government to appoint more inspectors and to increase the quality of inspection reports which included information on payment of wages. In the preparation for the Football World Cup of 2022, 1.5 million expatriate workers had been hired, and the Government was providing them with adequate housing facilities and access to health services, which was in itself a tremendous accomplishment. The Government was doing everything possible to comply with the Convention, both in law and in practice.

The Government representative called upon those speakers who had questioned some of the information that had been provided regarding the application of the Convention to recognize that the Government was aware of the magnitude of the problem and the related challenges, and was dealing with them. All who came to Qatar were considered to be partners in development. Regarding statements related to the media, he considered that these were their personal views, and that the media were politicized and biased. He emphasized that all migrant workers had the right to litigate, that litigation costs were free, and that workers could use the existing arbitration mechanisms before referral to the courts. In 2013, the courts had dealt with about 10,000 cases. Regarding fatal accidents, Qatar valued the life of every individual working on its territory. Although shortcomings existed, it should be taken into account that the Government was working on new legislation imposing sanctions on employers who violated the occupational safety and health legislation. Moreover, the Government was also considering the review of the sponsorship system (kafala) and was looking at several proposals in this regard. He reiterated his Government’s commitment to international labour standards and cooperation with the ILO on matters relating to occupational safety and health and labour inspection. Qatar was working at both national and international levels and intended to continue sending labour inspectors to the International Training Centre in Turin for training. His Government would send a detailed annual report on the Convention in time for its examination by the Committee of Experts.

The Worker members first of all indicated their emphatic rejection of the Government’s remarks against an official of the Bureau of Workers’ Activities. They also deeply deplored the fact that the workers of Qatar had not been represented in the Conference Committee by a genuine trade union member but by an official from the human resources directorate of a major enterprise in the country. The discussions in the Committee concerning the application of Convention No. 81 were clearly based on the report of the Committee of Experts but they were also connected with the other work of the ILO, in particular the report of the tripartite committee set up to examine the representation against Qatar under article 24 of the ILO Constitution alleging non-observance of the Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29), which had been adopted by the Governing Body at its March 2014 session. Those conclusions could therefore be adopted, mutatis mutandis, by the Committee. By way of recapitulation, the Governing Body had invited Qatar to amend its legislation on the residence of foreigners without delay, which, inter alia, infringed in practice the right of workers to complain to the authorities in the event of failure by the employer to fulfil his obligations. The Governing Body had also invited Qatar to guarantee access for migrant workers to the labour inspectorate and to the labour courts. In that respect, the Government should be urged, with regard to labour justice, to ensure that complaints could be lodged free of charge, that there was easy access to the courts without fear of reprisals and that cases brought by migrant workers would be processed rapidly, while also ensuring that migrant workers had access to interpreters and legal assistance. Moreover, the testimonies heard during the discussions had shown that it was important that the Government was able to provide the Committee of Experts with reliable statistics on the work of the labour inspectorate, as had been requested by the Governing Body. The present case was concerned with serious violations of the rights of more than 1.5 million migrant workers who were in a situation of great vulnerability. The action taken by the Government was minimal and had had no impact. To put an end to the persistent crisis in human rights in Qatar, exceptional measures were now called for. Apart from the conclusions of the Governing Body which had already been referred to, the Worker members urged the Government to increase considerably the number of labour inspectors and to ensure that the latter could communicate effectively with the workers. Furthermore, the Government was invited not only to accept technical assistance from the Office but also to receive a high-level tripartite mission early enough in the current year for the mission’s report to be available for examination by the Committee of Experts at its 2014 meeting. In conclusion, concerned at the seriousness of the situation, the Worker members asked that the conclusions relating to the present case be inserted in a special paragraph in the Conference Committee’s report.

The Employer members supported the statement of the Government member of the Russian Federation and echoed the comments made by the Worker members regarding the services provided by the Bureau for Workers’ Activities and the Bureau for Employers’ Activities to the Workers’ and Employers’ groups respectively. There was general agreement that Qatar was performing an increasing number of labour inspections and the Government deserved praise for the efforts it had made in this regard. However, there was also consensus that far more labour inspectors were needed to carry out the number of required inspections, with each inspector having to perform fewer inspections. The number of labour inspectors, including women inspectors and inspectors who spoke the language of the migrant workers concerned, should be substantially increased. The Employer members agreed with all of the points made by the Worker members in their concluding statement, except for the inclusion of a special paragraph in the conclusions of this case in the Committee’s report.

CMNT_TITLE

CMNT_TITLE

CMNT_TITLE

CMNT_TITLE

CMNT_TITLE

CMNT_TITLE

CMNT_TITLE

CMNT_TITLE

CMNT_TITLE

CMNT_TITLE

CMNT_TITLE

CMNT_TITLE

CMNT_TITLE

CMNT_TITLE

CMNT_TITLE

CMNT_TITLE

CMNT_TITLE

CMNT_TITLE

The Committee notes the Government’s report, received in the ILO on 2 September 2009, in reply to its previous comments and the attached statistics on labour inspection.

Articles 5(a) and 21(e) of the Convention. Effective cooperation between the labour inspectorate and the justice system. With reference to its general observation of 2007 in which it emphasized the value of effective cooperation between the labour inspectorate and the judiciary, the Committee notes that, according to the Government, such cooperation is carried out through an exchange of information, statistics and other data between the inspectorate and the High Judicial Council. However, the Government does not provide examples of the precise purpose and the manner in which the information exchanged is used. The Committee nevertheless notes that it is planned to establish a system for the registration of Court rulings, which would be accessible to the labour inspectorate.

While noting the provision of certain statistical data on the prosecutions initiated by the labour inspectorate as a result of workers’ complaints in 2006 and 2007, the Committee however notes that the data provided does not allow for any analysis, as elementary details are missing, such as the subject of the complaints, the legal provisions concerned and the nature of the court rulings. For example, an indication is provided that 415 of the 1,260 prosecutions referred to the courts in 2007 were set aside, without any explanation of the grounds for their dismissal. To be analysed and exploited, statistics should reflect an object and precise results. Analysis of the statistics on prosecutions following labour inspections should make it possible to verify whether they are mainly targeted at conditions of work and the protection of workers while engaged in their work, as envisaged by Article 3(1)(a), of the Convention, determine whether their dismissal was due to procedural errors attributable to labour inspectors, in which case measures would need to be taken to provide relevant training to the latter, and to ensure that court rulings correspond to the objectives of labour inspection and, if this is not the case, to develop measures to raise the awareness of magistrates concerning the importance of the socio-economic role of labour inspection. The Committee therefore requests the Government to take measures to establish cooperation between the labour inspection services and the judiciary so as to improve the effectiveness and credibility of labour inspection and allow publication in the annual inspection report of informative statistics and information on the impact of these activities. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would keep the ILO informed of any progress in this regard.

Article 12(1). Extent of the right of labour inspectors to enter freely premises and workplaces liable to inspection. In its previous comment, the Committee emphasized, as it did in paragraph 267 of its 2006 General Survey on labour inspection, that the fact that “the instruments provide that inspectors should be authorized to enter workplaces without previous notice does not mean that, where deemed useful or necessary by the inspector, the employer or his or her representative cannot be informed of the time and purpose of the inspection”. The Committee hopes that the Government will review its viewpoint on the meaning and scope of Article 12(1), of the Convention and accordingly take measures to amend section 7 of Ministerial Order No. 13 of 2005 in order to bring the legislation into conformity with the spirit and letter of the Convention on this point and that, while being authorized to carry out inspections freely and without notice, labour inspectors will also be able to inform the employer of their inspection or its purpose where they consider that such notification is useful or necessary for the effective supervision envisaged.

Article 15(c). Obligation to treat as confidential the existence of a complaint. While noting the legal provisions ensuring compliance by labour inspectors with the obligation of confidentiality in relation to the author of a complaint giving rise to an inspection, the Committee wishes to emphasize once again that the Government should ensure that these provisions are supplemented so that where, during an inspection carried out in response to a compliant, the inspector may decide not to inform the employer or his representative of the existence of such a complaint and proceed to carry out an investigation of the complaint in full discretion. Such a provision would have the effect of ensuring the protection of those lodging complaints by any reprisals from the employer or his representative.

Articles 14 and 21(f) and (g). Notification and statistics of industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease and the prevention of their recurrence. The Committee notes with interest that statistics of industrial accidents which occurred in 2008 are presented under the nationality of the victims, age group, cause, part of the body injured and resulting incapacity rate.

However, it observes that no information is provided with regard to cases of occupational diseases.

The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate the objective that is pursued through the criteria for the statistical identification of victims and of the factors of industrial accidents, with an indication of whether, and in what manner, such an objective is achieved.

The Committee also requests the Government to provide the statistics that are available of cases of occupational diseases and to ensure that such statistics are included in the annual labour inspection report and are used with a view to developing a relevant prevention policy. It would be grateful if the Government would provide information in its next report on any progress achieved in this respect and on any measures adopted to ensure the follow up of cases of occupational diseases among migrant workers, who make up the majority of the workforce engaged in workplaces liable to inspection.

Articles 20 and 21. Publication and content of the annual labour inspection report. While taking due note of the brief statistical data provided by the Government in the annex to its report, the Committee wishes to recall the importance that it attaches to compliance with the obligation of the publication and communication by the central inspection authority, within the time limits set out in Article 20, of an annual report containing useful information on each of the items covered by Article 21. Indeed, assessment of the level of application of the Convention is only possible where, in addition to legislative information, the Committee also has access to precise information on the application of the legislation in practice. Presented as suggested in Paragraph 9 of the Labour Inspection Recommendation, 1947 (No. 81), (inspection staff, workplaces liable to inspection, persons employed therein, statistics of inspection visits, violations, penalties imposed, industrial accidents and occupational diseases), such information would also shed light on the operation of the labour inspection system in relation to the requirements of the Convention and would enable the central authority to determine priorities for action and the corresponding resources. With reference to its general observation of 2009 concerning the importance of establishing and updating a register of workplaces liable to labour inspection, containing information on the number and categories of workers employed therein (Article 21(c)), the Committee particularly requests the Government to ensure that measures are taken to ensure that the annual report contains such information which is indispensable for assessing the effective coverage of the inspection system in relation to the industrial and commercial workplaces liable to inspection. It would be grateful if the Government would provide information on any progress achieved in this respect.

The Committee requests the Government to ensure that, in any case, the central labour inspection authority publishes and communicates to the ILO, within the time limits set out in Article 20, a report on the activities undertaken by the services placed under its control and supervision, containing the information required by Article 21, and presented in so far as possible as indicated in Paragraph 9 of Recommendation No. 81.

CMNT_TITLE

The Committee notes the Government’s report in reply to its direct request of 2005, and the new regulations issued under the Labour Law adopted in 2004. It notes with interest that section 7 of Order No. 13 of 2005 respecting the regulation and procedures of labour inspection giving full effect to Article 12, paragraph 2, of the Convention, which provides that labour inspectors may refrain from notifying the employer of their presence on the occasion of an inspection visit where they consider that such notification may be prejudicial to the effectiveness of the inspection.

The Committee draws the Government’s attention to the following points.

Article 12, paragraph 1(a), of the Convention. Right of inspectors to enter workplaces freely. Under section 7 of Order No. 13 of 2005, labour inspectors are prohibited from notifying the employer of any inspection of the undertaking, irrespective of its purpose. The Committee emphasizes that, while the principle of surprise inspections is one of the prerequisites for the effectiveness of most inspections, the exercise of the right of free entry of inspectors, as set out in the Convention, should not exclude the possibility of inspectors notifying the employer of the inspection where they consider this useful for the proper implementation of the envisaged operations and verifications. Certain controls may indeed require the presence of the employer or her or his representative in the undertaking, the preparation of specific documents and conditions that are favourable for the inspection. It is also important that the free entry of inspectors into workplaces liable to inspection is not restricted by the requirement of authorization from a higher authority, and the possession of credentials demonstrating their functions should be considered sufficient for the legitimate exercise of the related powers and prerogatives. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would ensure that the legislation is amended so as to provide that labour inspectors may, in cases that they consider appropriate for the proper implementation of the inspection, notify the employer in advance of an inspection visit.

It also requests the Government to take measures to amend the legislation so that the right of free entry without prior notification by inspectors into workplaces liable to inspection is only subject to the possession of credentials certifying their functions, and is not restricted by the need for a mission order or authorization from a higher authority.

The Committee would be grateful if the Government would provide information on any progress achieved in this respect.

Article 13, paragraph 2(b). Measures with immediate executory force in cases of imminent risk to the health and safety of workers. Further to its previous comment relating to section 100 of the new Labour Law respecting the indirect powers that inspectors may exercise to order measures to protect workers against imminent risks to their health and safety resulting from the negligence of the employer, the Committee notes that, under the terms of section 12 of Order No. 13 of 2005, the time limit determined for an employer to bring to an end a violation of the provisions of the Labour Law may not be less than two weeks. It is bound to remind the Government that, in accordance with Article 13, paragraph 2(b), of the Convention, labour inspectors should have the right to make or to have made orders requiring measures “with immediate executory force” with a view to the elimination of such threats. The Government is therefore requested to take measures rapidly to supplement the legislation so that it explicitly provides that measures ordered with a view to the elimination of an imminent danger to the health or safety of the workers, including those determined in section 100 of the Labour Law, have immediate executory force and that there is no waiting period for their implementation.

Article 15(c). Confidentiality of the source of complaints and prohibition upon revealing that an inspection was made in consequence of a complaint. While noting that that confidentiality of the author of a complaint is guaranteed by section 10 of the above Order, the Committee notes that, contrary to the provisions of the Convention, no provision prohibits the inspector from revealing to the employer that a visit of inspection was made in consequence of a complaint. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would take measures to amend the legislation so as to give full effect to Article 15(c) of the Convention, the objective of which is to secure the effective protection of workers who make complaints against any reprisals by the employer.

Articles 19, 20 and 21. Use of the data contained in inspection reports with a view to the prevention of danger to health and safety at work. With reference to the information contained in the annual inspection report for 2004, the Committee notes with interest the data relating to the geographical distribution of workplaces liable to inspection (24,920) and the number of workers employed therein (335,235) (clause (c) of Article 21). It notes that over the course of the year inspectors carried out a total of 2,240 inspections, a figure which includes surprise inspections and scheduled inspections throughout the territory, disaggregated by the month, as well as data on occupational injuries. While noting a correlation between the number of employment accidents and the frequency of inspections, the Committee nevertheless regrets the absence of data on the number and categories of workplaces inspected, which would be useful to assess the rate of coverage by the labour inspectorate of the industrial and commercial workplaces liable to inspections. The Committee notes with interest the detailed presentation of certain data, including those relating to the distribution of employment accidents by branch, showing a clear predominance of accidents in the building and construction sector (47 per cent), the commercial, catering and hotel sector (25 per cent), processing industries (20 per cent) and transport and communications (13 per cent). It also notes a heading relating to a category of employment injuries qualified as “simple”, with the indication that they did not result in incapacity for work. These injuries affect, among others, the back, trunk, abdomen, shoulders and hands. There is no mention in the report of whether measures are envisaged to reduce occupational risks and improve conditions of work in the most exposed activities, or information and education activities for the categories of workers most affected by employment accidents. These measures could consist, for example, of an increase in the frequency of inspections in workplaces where workers are most exposed, and the development of educational activities on prevention measures for which employers and each worker are responsible. The number and frequency of injuries qualified as simple and not requiring absence from work could justify monitoring by the inspection services of the possible delayed consequences of such injuries in terms of harmful musculoskeletal pathologies that are prejudicial to the workers concerned and to the financial performance of the establishment. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would ensure that the annual inspection report is in future completed in accordance with the requirements of Article 21 with the inclusion of data on the staff of the labour inspection services (clause (b)), statistics of inspection visits (clause (d)) and statistics of occupational diseases (clause (g)). It invites the Government to draw the attention of the central inspection authority to Paragraph 9 of the Labour Inspection Recommendation, 1947 (No. 81), on the level of detail that is desirable in the required information so that the annual report can serve as a basis for the determination of the advisory and enforcement activities of the inspection services required to improve conditions of work at workplaces.

CMNT_TITLE

Powers of labour inspectors. Referring to its previous comments, the Committee notes with interest the provisions of Part 15 of the Labour Code of 2004, which entered into force on 6 January 2005, with regard in particular to the powers of control and injunction of labour inspectors (Articles 12 and 13 of the Convention). It also notes the provisions of section 100 of the Labour Code envisaging measures with immediate executory force in the event of imminent danger to the health or safety of the workers (Article 13, paragraph 2). The Committee further notes that ministerial orders applying the new provisions relating to occupational health and safety are currently being prepared. It requests the Government to continue to provide information on this subject and to transmit any texts that are adopted.

CMNT_TITLE

Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes the information provided by the Government. It notes with interest that the Government has established a form of notification of industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease spread out to all the employers, that the staff of the inspection service has been reinforced and that instructions have been given to the inspectors so that reports on their inspection activities include statistics on sanctions imposed on the persons who violate labour legislation and cases of occupational disease.

The Committee also notes that a new labour code is under consideration and that the text should fully give effect to the provisions of the Convention, in particular to Article 13, paragraph 2(b), relating to the powers of labour inspectors to make or to have made orders requiring measures with immediate executory force in the event of imminent danger to the health or safety of the workers. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would provide information on the progress made in this regard.

CMNT_TITLE

Referring also to its observation, the Committee requests the Government to supply supplementary information on the following points.

Labour inspection and child labour. The Committee notes that, according to the Government, no cases of child labour were reported by the inspection services. The Committee draws the Government’s attention to the fact that it is often difficult to detect irregular employment of children and young persons and would be grateful if the Government would take measures to ensure that labour inspectors receive training on the subject, in order to effectively seek out and bring to the notice of the authorities information on the existence of this practice, within the framework of their duties as defined in Article 3, paragraph 1(c), of the Convention.

Articles 8, 10 and 11 of the Convention. The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s report and in the annual inspection report for 2000 on the number of staff in the labour inspection service, their geographical distribution on the basis of the location of undertakings liable to inspection and the development of material and computerized facilities made available to the inspection services in order to prepare and process labour statistics. The Government is requested to continue to provide information on developments in the number of inspection service staff and to give details regarding its impact on the development of inspection activities and compliance with labour legislation.

Article 12. Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes that in the most recent version of the Labour Code available at the ILO, the provision of section 74 which stipulated prior notification of an inspection visit to the employer has been deleted in accordance with the requirement of Article 1, paragraph 1, of the Convention. It notes however that, according to the Government, the practice remains that in principle the employer is given prior notice of the inspection visit unless the inspector decides otherwise. The Committee emphasizes that the unexpected nature of inspection visits is one of the conditions for effective control and that the labour inspector should be legally authorized, in accordance with this Article of the Convention, first, to enter freely and without previous notice to the employer or his representative, any workplace liable to inspection (paragraph 1(a)) and, secondly, on the occasion of an inspection visit, refrain from notifying the employer or his representative of their presence if they consider that this may be prejudicial to the effectiveness of the control (paragraph 2). Noting the announcement of the adoption of a new Labour Code, the Committee hopes that the Government will take this opportunity to take measures for introducing provisions giving effect precisely to these two requirements of the Convention and that it will not fail to communicate information on the measures taken to this end.

Article 13. The Committee notes that a great many occupational accidents, particularly in the construction sector, are the result of falls and the use of sharp tools. It also notes that, according to the Government, if there is anything that threatens the health and safety of a worker, labour inspectors are entitled to ask employers to remedy the violation within a specified time limit and submit a report to the director of the Labour Department on their actions. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate if specific technical and legal measures are envisaged to reduce the hazardous features inherent in some activities and whether, as provided in Article 13, paragraph 2(b), labour inspectors are empowered to take measures with immediate executory force, including stopping work, in the event of imminent danger to the health or safety of the workers. The Government is also requested to communicate any legislation giving labour inspectors the duty of controlling application of the provisions concerning safety and health at work.

Articles 18 and 21(e). Procedures against breaches. The Committee notes that the annual inspection report contains no information or statistics on penalties imposed for violations of the legal provisions enforceable by labour inspectors. It notes that the Labour Code contains no provisions in this respect and that the only penalties it provides are those that the employer may impose on workers. Please indicate the legislation which serves as a legal basis for action against violations to the provisions of the Labour Code and take any necessary measures with a view to including in the annual report statistics on penalties imposed.

Articles 14 and 21. According to the Government, the procedure for notification of industrial accidents and diseases to the competent authorities is largely complied with in the enterprises liable to inspection. It notes, however, that the annual inspection report contains no statistics on occupational diseases. The Government is requested to indicate whether the labour inspection service receives such notifications. It is also requested to take measures with a view to the inclusion by the central labour inspection authority of statistics of occupational diseases in its forthcoming annual inspection reports and to communicate information on the measures taken to this end, in accordance with Article 21(g).

CMNT_TITLE

The Committee notes the Government’s detailed report. It notes the replies to its previous comments and the annual inspection report for 2000.

Increase in the number of inspection staff. The Committee notes with interestthat the increase in the number of labour inspectors has made it possible to overcome certain difficulties in the application of the Convention, particularly by promoting the activity of visits to establishments.

Safety and health at work of non-Arabic-speaking workers. The Committee also notes with interest that labour inspectors have been provided with training focused on safety and health at work and the relevant Conventions and that this training has enabled them to develop information and advisory activities for non Arabic speaking employers and workers with a view to eliminating the risk of industrial accidents caused by ignorance of the Arabic language.

The Committee is addressing a request directly to the Government on certain points.

CMNT_TITLE

Also referring to its observation on the Convention, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would provide information on the following points.

1.  The Committee notes that the statistics provided in the annual inspection reports, including statistics on occupational accidents and diseases, are systematically disaggregated, among other criteria, by the nationality of workers. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate the manner in which these data are used for the prevention of occupational risks and whether the nationality of the victims of employment accidents and occupational diseases has any impact in this respect, particularly with regard to the posting of safety notices in workplaces which employ non‑Arab‑speaking workers.

2.  With reference to the information provided in the Government’s report concerning the functions and powers of the officials entrusted with labour inspection, by virtue of section 74 of the Labour Code, the Committee wishes to draw the Government’s attention to the inadequacy of this information in relation to the provisions of Article 12 of the Convention. It therefore requests the Government to provide detailed information in its next report on each of the provisions of this Article, the objective of which is to secure the optimal effectiveness of inspection visits in relation to the objective of the Convention.

3.  Finally, with reference to sections 41 et seq. of the Labour Code respecting the employment and conditions of work of young persons, the Committee wishes to recall the growing concern of the international community in general, and of the ILO in particular, with regard to this category of workers, and it invites the Government to take appropriate measures to enable labour inspectors to exercise effective supervision of the application of the relevant legislation and, in particular, to bring to the notice of the competent authority defects or abuses noted in this field and which are not specifically covered by existing legal provisions, as envisaged by Article 3(1)(c). The Committee trusts that the Government will indicate in its next report the measures which have been taken or are envisaged in this respect and that relevant statistical data will also be provided in future annual inspection reports.

CMNT_TITLE

The Committee notes with satisfaction the Government’s detailed reports for the periods ending successively in June 1997, May 1998 and May 1999, as well as the information contained in the annual inspection reports for 1996, 1997 and 1998, in accordance with Article 21 of the Convention. The Committee takes due note of the conformity with the Articles of the Convention of the legal provisions and practice described by the Government. In particular, it notes with interest the use made of the guidance provided in the ILO publication of 1996 entitled Recording and notification of employment accidents and diseases for the development of an effective system for this purpose.

The Committee also notes with interest the detailed information provided by the Government concerning the staff of the labour inspectorate, the proportion of women therein and the specific rule conferred upon them, particularly for the supervision of enterprises employing female staff, and also on the resources made available to the staff for the discharge of its functions. The Committee hopes that the Government will continue to provide information on developments in the labour inspection system in each of its future reports and that annual inspection reports will continue to be prepared, published and transmitted to the ILO regularly and within the time limits set out in Article 20.

The Committee is addressing a request directly to the Government on certain points.

CMNT_TITLE

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received, although it has noted the information in the report for the period ending June 1992. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee recalls that an ILO multidisciplinary mission visited Qatar in February 1992 at the Government's request, in order to make recommendations as to the labour inspection services. Those recommendations relate to the general need to improve implementation of the Convention, with special reference to bringing legislation more closely into line with Articles 3 (functions of the inspectorate) and 12 and 13 (their powers); to encouraging coordination with other government services (Article 5(a)); to inspectors' conditions of service and training (Articles 6 and 7(3)); and to the other points mentioned below. The Committee is pleased to note that the Minister hopes to implement the recommendations soon, and it trusts the next report will contain further details.

Articles 6, 10 and 16 of the Convention. The Committee notes that the Government acknowledges the shortage of labour inspectors to secure the most effective discharge of the duties conferred on them. It further notes the Government's intention to take measures to increase the number of inspectors, including safety and health inspectors. It hopes these measures will be adopted shortly, providing inspectors with the status and conditions of service that assure them stability and independence in their employment, so that they can perform their tasks effectively and, in particular, carry out regular visits to all workplaces liable to inspection. Please supply full details of progress made.

Article 13. The Committee notes the information provided in reply to its previous comments that the adoption of the draft Regulations on labour inspection prepared with the assistance of an ILO expert has been postponed by the Council of Ministers pending a general revision of the Labour Code intended to take into consideration modern international labour standards including those on labour inspection and the provisions of the Convention. The Committee hopes that the necessary measures will be taken soon and that the Government will provide full information.

Articles 19, 20 and 21. The Committee notes that no report on the activities of labour inspection has been published since that for 1987 due to the shortage of labour inspectors. It notes further that an expert has been designated to prepare a report and statistical forms with the help of the members of the ministry. The Committee hopes that these measures will enable the Government to publish and communicate the reports to the ILO and that they will contain all the information required by Article 21.

CMNT_TITLE

Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes with interest that an ILO multi-disciplinary mission visited Qatar in February 1992 at the Government's request, in order to make recommendations as to the labour inspection services. Those recommendations relate to the general need to improve implementation of the Convention, with special reference to bringing legislation more closely into line with Articles 3 (functions of the inspectorate) and 12 and 13 (their powers); to encouraging coordination with other government services (Article 5(a)); to inspectors' conditions of service and training (Articles 6 and 7(3)); and to the other points mentioned below. The Committee is pleased to note that the Minister hopes to implement the recommendations soon, and it trusts the next report will contain further details.

Articles 6, 10 and 16 of the Convention. The Committee notes that the Government acknowledges the shortage of labour inspectors to secure the most effective discharge of the duties conferred on them. It further notes the Government's intention to take measures to increase the number of inspectors, including safety and health inspectors. It hopes these measures will be adopted shortly, providing inspectors with the status and conditions of service that assure them stability and independence in their employment, so that they can perform their tasks effectively and, in particular, carry out regular visits to all workplaces liable to inspection. Please supply full details of progress made.

Article 13. The Committee notes the information provided in reply to its previous comments that the adoption of the draft Regulations on labour inspection prepared with the assistance of an ILO expert has been postponed by the Council of Ministers pending a general revision of the Labour Code intended to take into consideration modern international labour standards including those on labour inspection and the provisions of the Convention. The Committee hopes that the necessary measures will be taken soon and that the Government will provide full information.

Articles 19, 20 and 21. The Committee notes that no report on the activities of labour inspection has been published since that for 1987 due to the shortage of labour inspectors. It notes further that an expert has been designated to prepare a report and statistical forms with the help of the members of the ministry. The Committee hopes that these measures will enable the Government to publish and communicate the reports to the ILO and that they will contain all the information required by Article 21.

CMNT_TITLE

The Committee notes that, although brief information was sent in 1990, the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Articles 10 and 16. The Committee notes from the Government's report that the number of labour inspectors is insufficient to secure the most effective discharge of the duties conferred on them. It hopes that the Government will take the necessary measures to increase the number of the labour inspectorate staff, so that they can perform their tasks effectively and, in particular, carry out regular visits to all workplaces liable to inspection.

Article 13. The Committee takes note of the Government's statement that the proposed amendments to the Labour Code and the draft Regulations concerning labour inspection prepared with the assistance of an ILO expert with a view to facilitating the application of the Convention, have been submitted to the Council of Ministers. It trusts that these texts will shortly be adopted and that they will confer on inspectors the powers provided for in this Article of the Convention.

Article 21. The Committee notes that the annual reports of the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs for 1987-88 contain information only on the subjects listed in points (c), (d), (e), and (f) of this Article of the Convention (statistics of workplaces liable to inspection, number of workers employed therein, inspection visits, violations and penalties imposed, and occupational diseases). It hopes that future reports will contain all the information required by Article 21.

CMNT_TITLE

The Committee takes note of the information communicated by the Government in reply to its previous comments concerning the application of Article 15 of the Convention.

Articles 10 and 16. The Committee notes from the Government's report that the number of labour inspectors is insufficient to secure the most effective discharge of the duties conferred on them. It hopes that the Government will take the necessary measures to increase the number of the labour inspectorate staff, so that they can perform their tasks effectively and, in particular, carry out regular visits to all workplaces liable to inspection.

Article 13. The Committee takes note of the Government's statement that the proposed amendments to the Labour Code and the draft Regulations concerning labour inspection prepared with the assistance of an ILO expert with a view to facilitating the application of the Convention, have been submitted to the Council of Ministers. It trusts that these texts will shortly be adopted and that they will confer on inspectors the powers provided for in this Article of the Convention.

Article 21. The Committee notes that the annual reports of the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs for 1987-88 contain information only on the subjects listed in points (c), (d), (e), and (f) of this Article of the Convention (statistics of workplaces liable to inspection, number of workers employed therein, inspection visits, violations and penalties imposed, and occupational diseases). It hopes that future reports will contain all the information required by Article 21.