FNCCI delegation meets Minister of Labour, Employment and Social Security

KATHMANDU: A team of officials from the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), led by Vice-President and Chairperson of the Employers' Council, Jyotsna Shrestha, visited the Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Security to congratulate and welcome the newly appointed Labor Minister, Dol Prasad Aryal.

During the meeting, Shrestha highlighted the FNCCI's view that while there haven't been many major labor disputes lately, strengthening and improving labor relations for increased productivity remains a key focus.  She informed the Minister about a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the FNCCI and the Ministry a few months ago to address these concerns. The FNCCI plans to develop a strategic plan soon for its effective implementation.

The FNCCI representatives also raised concerns about the potential future labor shortage due to skilled workers migrating abroad. They emphasized the need for immediate action, including skill development programs and initiatives to retain workers in productive sectors.

The FNCCI officials requested the Minister to designate High Courts in the provinces to handle labor disputes for faster resolution. Additionally, they emphasized the need for extensive discussions on International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 87 and its standards. The discussion also covered topics like reintegration of workers returning from foreign employment and skill development programs for laborers. The FNCCI expressed its readiness to collaborate with the government on these issues.

In his response, Labor Minister Aryal acknowledged the importance of the issues raised by the FNCCI. He informed them that the Ministry is already working on granting jurisdiction to High Courts in all seven provinces (except Kathmandu, which will be covered by the Bagmati Province High Court) to function as labor courts, as per Section 158 of the law.

Regarding skill development, the Minister mentioned ongoing discussions within the Ministry to collaborate with the FNCCI for a "Skill Training Decade" initiative. He also confirmed ongoing discussions within the Ministry on ILO Convention No. 87.

Finally, Minister Aryal stressed the need for further collaboration between the government and the private sector for long-term improvements in all these areas and for the development of the national economy.