Bahrain MPs back change to job switch law for expats

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Expats could be forced to wait for three years instead of one before switching jobs.

MPs yesterday approved proposed amendments to the 2006 Labour Market Regulatory Authority Set-up Law despite government objections that it would breach international labour regulations and rights.

MP Yousif Al Thawadi said the three-year clause was vital to protect the interests of Bahraini businessmen.

“Bahraini businessmen are spending a lot to bring young expat workers to the country. They provide training, education, accommodation, permits and licences,” he said.

“However, after a year, the worker leaves to set up a business of his own which is unfair.

“They take the customers with them by offering the same services at a cheaper rate.

“Some even open shops near their old sponsor, while others roam around on bicycles offering on-the-go services.

UNFAIR

“Should expats feel the three-year rule is unfair, let them reject the contract, others would lap up the job opportunity.”

Parliament also approved amendments to the 2010 Civil Service Law to allow Bahrainis in government jobs to open CRs despite objections from the government that it contradicts the nature of civil service.

“Doctors, lawyers and engineers work on their businesses after work hours, while others have CRs under the name of mothers or wives,” said MP Hamad Al Kooheji.

“Forty per cent of the CRs are under women, while actually they are run by civil servants.

“Several ministers are businessman and they continue to run their businesses while doing government work, so why are they different?

“People want to survive, so why not give them CRs officially, under proper restrictions and monitoring?”

MPs also approved a proposal forcing companies fully owned by the government to transfer part of their net profits to state coffers.

It targets companies listed with the country’s sovereign wealth fund, Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company, and the National Oil and Gas Holding Company (NogaHolding).

Bahrain Bloc president MP Ahmed Al Salloom said both companies would be pressured into pumping more funds into the 2021-2022 state budget during negotiations starting today.

He also presented a new legislation during the session that would oblige companies fully-owned by the government to only employ Bahrainis. It will be reviewed by the relevant committee.

A new legislation to regulate the use of drones was also approved by MPs.

The proposed law was presented by five MPs, led by Parliament Speaker Fouzia Zainal, who said that irresponsible use of drones could pose a threat to the country’s security and public privacy.

Anyone found importing, manufacturing, assembling, using and possessing drones could be jailed between a year and five and fined no less than BD2,000 or both. The punishments may double if any related offence is committed.

Using drones for a terrorist activity could result in jail term of no less than 10 years while fatalities could lead to a death penalty.

MPs also approved a new law to organise sports in the country, despite government objections that it doesn’t follow current progression.

The legislation will be drafted within six months by the government and referred to the National Assembly.

mohammed@gdn.com.bh

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