Protect RMG workers, keep exports running: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday called for measures to protect readymade garment (RMG) workers' interests, improve their living standards and enhance their financial capacity while ensuring uninterrupted production and exports.

Briefing reporters at the Bangladesh Secretariat on Sunday night after a review meeting, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said the premier instructed the Labour Ministry to safeguard workers and advised the wage board to consider their welfare, financial capacity and dignified family life.

Although the government had until December under the three-year wage revision rule, it acted early through consultations. Following owners' earlier submissions and delayed workers' nominations on Saturday night, authorities gazetted the wage board on Sunday morning.

With wage talks open, Salahuddin Ahmed termed factory arson, attacks and vehicle vandalism unacceptable. He said police were ordered to resist sabotage. Analysis suggested individuals across the border were using innocent workers to destabilise the country and disrupt production and exports.

Urging owners to keep factory closures temporary and maintain normal production through mutual discussions, the home minister recalled Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman's contribution to the sector. Adding that the government seeks peace, discipline, higher exports and expanded employment.

Prime Minister's Political Adviser Nazrul Islam Khan, Adviser Mahdi Amin, Labour and Expatriates' Welfare Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury, State Minister Mir Shahe Alam and Jatiyatabadi Shramik Dal Chief Coordinator Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas were also present in the meeting.

Source: BSS