Government: Linking Job Quota to Business License Renewal Could Affect Bahraini Employees

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

The government has rejected an urgent proposal from the House of Representatives that would have tied the renewal of commercial registrations to the fulfillment of Bahraini employment quotas and the establishment of a joint committee to monitor salary support payments. 

The proposal, submitted in November 2023 by the parliament, argued that such measures would protect Bahraini workers.  However, the government contends that the proposal's objectives are already being met and that its implementation could harm businesses and ultimately negatively impact Bahraini employees.

The government stated that existing plans are already effectively increasing Bahrainization (the employment of Bahraini citizens).  "Significant progress has been made in recent years through training programmes designed to prepare Bahrainis for managerial and executive positions, facilitating job transitions and knowledge transfer.  Bahrainization quotas are already in place across various sectors, reaching 50% in some high-demand areas, and are subject to continuous evaluation.  Government contracts also mandate adherence to these quotas," the government underscored in its response.

The government considers the current system of fines for non-compliance—a BHD 500 fee for each foreign worker permit issued to businesses failing to meet quotas—sufficient.  "Denying business license renewals would harm employees, including Bahrainis, potentially leading to increased job losses," the government explained.

Regarding the proposed joint committee between the Ministry of Labour and Tamkeen (Labour Fund) to monitor salary support payments, the government highlighted the existing National Employment Programme, which already incorporates joint oversight mechanisms. 

"Contracts explicitly prohibit employers from terminating beneficiaries or reducing their benefits before the completion of Tamkeen-approved training periods, except under specific circumstances outlined in Article 107 of the Labour Law (Law No. 36 of 2012)," the government added.

"Tamkeen has implemented enhanced monitoring measures, including increased communication with Bahraini beneficiaries after support periods end, a new mechanism with the Ministry of Labour to report terminations, and a sixfold increase in site visits to beneficiary businesses.  The government also employs a system of penalties, including the recovery of support funds or program exclusion for violations.  A new public awareness campaign using a dedicated hotline (17383383) encourages reporting of unfair dismissals," the response highlighted.

"Tamkeen also maintains ongoing communication with the General Directorate of Anti-Corruption, referring any suspected criminal activity to the appropriate authorities, and collaborates with the judiciary on related cases.  The government maintains that its existing initiatives effectively address the concerns raised in the rejected proposal," the response concluded.