Photo Credit: BVI Platinum News
Photo Credit: BVI Platinum News
Premier Hon. Ralph T. O´Neal said while the new Labour Code is now law, every aspect will not be enforced at one time.
Speaking on the VIP´s radio programme on Monday evening, the Premier explained that Governor David Pearey has since assented to the Bill, and it is now the law that governs the labour administration; however the different sections will come into force at different times.
"I do not think all the parts will come into operation at the same time because it has to get certain forms and what not. I know they are working at it now, the Ministry. Whatever section comes into force, a notice will be published and workers and employers both will be informed to say this part is now enforced," Premier O´Neal explained.
The Premier also expressed hope that certain parts come into force soon.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour and the Labour Department have recently announced that the new Labour Code has officially been gazetted and is now available on the Virgin Islands Official Gazette website, www.bvigazette.org.
According to Government, the new Labour Code will be Government´s mechanism to address the Territory´s system of labour administration. Major areas addressed in the Code are retirement payments, types of work permits, gratuity, minimum standards of employment, discipline and termination, protection against victimization and protection of children and young persons.
The Code also makes provisions for the protection of pregnant employees, preference to Virgin Islanders and Belongers for employment, discrimination in employment, safety and health, responsibilities and powers of the Labour Department, Advisory Committee and penalties.
"The Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour and the Department of Labour anticipate that the new Labour Code will allow for the efficient management of the labour market and at the same time address the Territory´s need for migrant workers and facilitate opportunities for British Virgin Islanders and Belongers," said Government in a recent GIS release.
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