Labour department shifted to home ministry for expatriate issues
It has also been decided to review the penalties imposed on those who violate the rules on employment of foreigners in Maldives.
By
Aishath Maha
The Cabinet has decided to transfer the Labour Relations Authority to the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology to resolve expatriate issues.
The decision was taken after discussing a paper submitted by the Homeland Ministry to the Cabinet meeting held on 21st of this month.
The decision to transfer Labour Relations to the Homeland Ministry was taken to strengthen enforcement to address the issue of illegal immigrants.
One of the reasons for the increase in illegal immigrants or undocumented immigrants is the negligence of those who bring them to Maldives. Expatriates have always raised this issue with the authorities. The Cabinet on Saturday also made decisions to resolve this issue. They include:
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Compile and make public a list of employers who neglect expatriates after bringing them to Maldives
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A fine of MVR 50,000 shall be imposed on the employer for such negligence
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In addition to fines on employers who repeatedly commit such acts, government services provided to the employer under the Employment Act will be suspended for a specified period
It has also been decided to review the penalties imposed on those who violate the rules on employment of foreigners in Maldives and other related rules and regulations.
Furthermore:
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Blocking services as a penalty for non-payment of fees and penalties for permits issued in connection with foreigners working in the country
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To establish a system that can verify the information of expatriates using mobile phone services through telecommunication service providers, as well as the Expat system containing information of foreigners working in Maldives under work permits -established and maintained by the Home Ministry
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To facilitate the compliance of expatriates, study and implement ways to block various government services for expatriates who violate work permits, such as blocking telephone number services and transportation services
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Conduct orientation program for newly arrived expatriates to familiarise them with the laws and regulations of Maldives
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Conduct outreach programs to inform employers of the laws and regulations they must follow, the persons and service providers involved, the permits required to bring in an expatriate, the fees to be paid for permits and also what the responsibilities of employer and employee are
The Cabinet also decided to audit illegal foreign businesses and take strict legal action to remove obstacles to employment opportunities for Maldivian youth.
