Positive move in garment sector
6/1/2014/Financial Express
It is heartening to know that the government is likely to revise the wage in the garment sector. A meeting of the Board of Directors of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) also unanimously decided to settle the issue relating to the minimum wages of garment workers immediately. This decision has been made to help keep the apparel sector free of any labour unrest.
The recent attacks on the apparel sector have, however, woken up the authorities concerned and brought forward the issue of garment workers’ wages for immediate solution. A report hinted that the government committee will comprise, among others, members — two from BGMEA, one from the BKMEA and one each from three labour organisations — to discuss on wage issues and find an acceptable wage structure for their workers.
But only refixing the wages may not bring about a solution of the problem. The masterminds of the recent attacks in the garment sector may subsequently try to exploit other issues like working hours, bonus and medical as well as, leave facilities, if they want to do so again. As the garment sector employs more women employees, there is a need to introduce some other facilities to make the working environment favourable to them.
The proposed committee would do well if it prepares a wholesome proposal for creating a healthy environment in the garment sector. Owners of the factories must ensure immediate implementation of the package to avoid unexpected attacks on this export earning sector.
Ferdousi Rahman
Elephant road
Dhaka
