Demande directe (CEACR) - adoptée 2003, publiée 92ème session CIT (2004)

Article 2 of the Convention. According to this Article, the weekly rest provisions apply to establishments irrespective of the size of the workforce. The Shops and Establishments Act of 1965, however, which is the main legislation to give effect to the Convention, only applies automatically to the establishments in which five or more workers are employed (section 1(4)). Otherwise, the Act shall apply if the establishments are notified in the Official Gazette (section 1(5)).

The Committee understands from previous reports that the Government has extended, by notification under section 1(5) of the Shops and Establishment Act of 1965, the application of the Act to all shops and establishments in four city corporations and 52 municipal areas.

The Government’s report indicates that there are still areas without notifications where the Act only applies to shops and establishments with more than five employees. In the absence of exhaustive information, the Committee requests the Government to indicate how effect is given to the Convention in respect of establishments where fewer than five workers are employed. The Committee furthermore asks the Government to provide it with a list of areas where the Act only applies to shops and establishments of more than five employees.

Article 6, paragraph 3. In response to its direct request, the Committee notes receipt of two notifications in Bengali by the Chief Inspector under section 5(2) of the Shops and Establishment Act of 1965, regulating the weekly rest days of shops and establishments. The Committee understands that the weekly rest days in Bangladesh might differ according to the district, municipality or area. It would appreciate receiving further information on the criteria used by the Chief Inspector in determining the weekly rest days and on any problems encountered. The Committee would be grateful if the Government could provide it in its next report with copies in English, if they exist.