Seminar on Labour Affairs: MoL UM gave an opening speech

The Seminar on settlement of labour disputes organized by the Ministry of Labour was conducted at UMFCCI in Lanmadaw Township of Yangon Region on Friday.

The seminar was attended by Union Minister U Myint Naung, Yangon Region Chief Minister U Soe Thein, Senior officials from the Ministry, representatives from UMFCCI, members of Arbitration Council, members of Arbitration Body (Lower Myanmar), members of Township Conciliation Bodies of Yangon Region and departmental officials.

In his opening remarks, the Union Minister discussed the challenges, obstacles, strengths, and weaknesses encountered in resolving disputes between the employers and employees. He emphasized the importance of discussing these issues and exchanging perspectives to create effective strategies for ongoing dispute resolution processes.

He noted that the purpose of the senminar on the settlement of labour disputes is to foster positive outcomes in resolving labor-related issues. Given the crucial role of the Tripartite groups, the minister stressed that members of the Conciliation Body, Arbitration Body, and Arbitration Council should approach dispute mediation and decision-making impartially, without allegiance to either employers or employees.

He encouraged impartial resolution efforts that would foster mutual understanding between both parties, thereby establishing a trusted and effective dispute resolution mechanism. He also urged attendees to perform their responsibilities with a sense of obligation, accountability, and efficiency, in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.

Next, Yangon Region Chief Minister U Soe Thein spoke on the potential for sustained growth in productivity to create stable, peaceful workplaces for both employers and employees, leading to economic prosperity. He highlighted that when grievances arise between employers and employees, it is essential to seek resolution through the Workers Coordination Committee (WCC) to maintain appropriate and stable employment and a harmonious working environment. He underscored that conflicts and disputes between employers and employees should be resolved promptly in accordance with the law to achieve a peaceful and cooperative workplace.

Then, the Union Minister met with the members of Arbitration Council and coordinated requirements upon the reports.

After that, the Director General of the Department of Labour Relations, Deputy Directors  General from Department of Labour, Social Security Board, Factories and General Labour Laws Inspection Department clarified the accounts of organizing seminar, regulatory laws and implementations by the departments, challenges encountered, advantage and disadvantage in the implementation. And then, the attendants of representatives conducted group discussions and interactive discussions, it’s learnt.