ROADTOWN Tortola BVI, December 1st, 2011 – The Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour and the Labour Department in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) are currently hosting a three-day workshop titled “ILO, International Labour Standards and the Supervisory Mechanisms.”
Approximately, 20 participants including public officers and private stakeholders are in attendance. The workshop culminates on December 3.
In an opening ceremony held on November 29, Deputy Premier and Minister for Natural Resources and Labour Dr. the Honourable Kedrick Pickering said, “I fully recognise the importance of this workshop and I strongly support such an initiative.”
“As stakeholders we must understand that it is crucial to provide the requested information and to provide it in a timely manner,” the Minister stressed.
“The aim of this workshop is to raise awareness, spread the word, become more knowledgeable about ILO and to get the buy in of all stakeholders, let us be committed to the task at hand and perform our roles so that we will not only meet our ILO reporting obligations but exceed them,” Honourable Pickering stated.
According to the minister, beginning early 2012 the Ministry will embark on a series of community meetings aimed at gathering information and a clear understanding of the complexity of issues the Territory is faced with in respect to immigration and employment.
International Labour Standards and Labour Law Specialist, Mr. Pierre-Francois Recoing outlined the areas of focus for the workshop which include ILO Tripartite Structure, Declarations, Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, The Decent Work Agenda, International Labour Standards (ILS) and Supervisory Systems.
Acting Governor Mrs. Inez Archibald reminded participants that the conference is particularly important for the Virgin Islands because of the large population of expatriates.
“It doesn’t hurt to be sensitive and aware when it comes to how persons should be treated in the work force,” Mrs. Archibald said.
Labour Commissioner Mrs. Oleanvine Maynard said that the workshop is geared toward assisting the Labour Department to be better equipped with producing the necessary reports in keeping with the requirements of the ILO.
“First hand training on the correct reporting methods by ILO representatives will guarantee that the right procedures are followed thus keeping the Territory in compliance at all times,” Mrs. Maynard expressed.
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) is devoted to promoting social justice and internationally recognised human and labour rights, pursuing its founding mission that labour peace is essential to prosperity.
Its main aims are to promote rights at work, encourage decent employment opportunities, enhance social protection and strengthen dialogue on work-related issues.
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