Ensure wage, bonus for workers before Eid: speakers

Trade union and labour leaders yesterday demanded that the government ensure that factory owners provide workers their due wages and bonuses ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr.

Besides, the government has to take specific, sector-wise measures for both formal and informal sector workers to support them in fighting the pandemic's economic consequences and for their health safety, they said at a virtual roundtable discussion.

Bangladesh Institute of Labour Studies (BILS) and The Daily Star arranged the roundtable on "Covid-19: Situation of Working People, Challenges and Way Forward to the Future of Work". BILS Secretary General Nazrul Islam Khan moderated it.

The event was held prior to May Day, to be observed globally today.

Speakers claimed that the government's relief effort has not reached many workers in rural areas, with no income opportunities. These workers and their family have been spending days starving, they added.

Addressing the roundtable, Bangladesh Trade Union Kendra General Secretary Wajedul Islam Khan said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has declared some specific directives to fight the current situation, which should be followed accordingly.

Authorities concerned have to en sure that workers are being paid three months' wages, he said. "Workers should be given dues and bonuses, and they cannot be fired ahead of Eid due to the shutdown," he added.

Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments Chief Inspector Shibnath Roy said they have asked inspectors to monitor that factory owners ensure hygiene, and provide face masks at the entrance following standard health guideline.

These measures were taken alongside regular activities, he said

Samajtantrik Shramik Front President Razequzzaman Ratan said many migrant workers are at risk of losing jobs, and the government should arrange special training for them.

Noted rights activist and Shramik Nirapotta Forum Convener Hameeda Hossain said it is imperative that trade unions and workers fight the situation hand in hand.

Chairing the programme, BILS Chairman Habibur Rahman Shiraz spoke on the significance of May Day and urged all to follow its core values.

Among others, Jatiya Shramik League General Secretary Azam Khasru, Jatiyatabadi Shramik Dal President Anwar Hossain and Dhaka University's Prof Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir spoke at the roundtable.