Demande directe (CEACR) - adoptée 2009, publiée 99ème session CIT (2010)

Article 1, subparagraph (a), of the Convention. Penalties involving compulsory labour as a punishment for expressing political views or views ideologically opposed to the established political, social or economic system. In its earlier comments, the Committee referred to certain provisions of Act No. 25 of 1990 on the press and printings, which imposed restrictions on printing, publishing and disseminating of certain political views, violation of such restrictions being punishable with imprisonment (involving an obligation to work).

The Committee notes with interest the Government’s indication in the report that the new Act on the Press and Publications has been promulgated and requests the Government to communicate a copy for the examination by the Committee.

Article 1, subparagraphs (c) and (d). Disciplinary measures applicable to seafarers. In its earlier comments, the Committee noted that section 119 of the Maritime Act (No. 15 of 1994) empowers the captain to take disciplinary measures in accordance with the special laws regulating them and requested copies of such special laws. It also noted the Government’s indication in its earlier reports that the implementing regulations under the Act were under elaboration by the Ministry of Transport and Maritime Affairs. The Government indicates in its latest report that no such regulations have been adopted.

The Committee reiterates its hope that the Government will supply a copy of implementing regulations under the Maritime Act, as soon as they are adopted, including any special provisions governing disciplinary measures for seafarers referred to in section 119 of the Act.

Having also noted the Government’s repeated statement that the Maritime Act (No. 15 of 1994) has repealed the earlier enactments concerning maritime issues, including disciplinary provisions of the Merchant Shipping Ordinance (Cap. 95), the Committee requests the Government to indicate the provisions governing labour discipline in merchant shipping and to supply copies of relevant texts.