Government Opposes Bill Restricting Foreigner Employment in Public Sector
TDT | Manama
The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com
Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com
The government has voiced its opposition to a draft law that would significantly restrict the hiring of foreigners for public sector jobs. The bill proposes requiring foreign applicants to possess a master's degree and at least ten years of experience in the relevant field, with contracts limited to two years, renewable for another two years only with the approval of a committee formed by the Civil Service Bureau. This committee would also oversee the training of Bahraini employees.
The government urged the House of Representatives to reconsider the bill, arguing that it conflicts with the Civil Service Law. The government contends that setting specific qualification requirements and including detailed conditions within the law are matters of internal regulation.
The bill, reviewed by the Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee, seeks to amend Article 11 of the Civil Service Law (Decree-Law No. 48 of 2010). The proposed amendment would mandate that non-Bahraini contract employees possess at least a master's degree or equivalent in their specialisation, along with ten years of relevant experience. Contracts would be limited to a maximum of two years, renewable for a similar period subject to the Civil Service Bureau committee's approval and a commitment to training Bahraini employees.
The bill aims to limit the hiring of foreigners in the public sector, prioritising Bahraini citizens and promoting the development of local talent. The Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee, however, recommended approval of the bill.
The House of Representatives is scheduled to vote on the bill in its upcoming session, with approval and subsequent referral to the Shura Council anticipated. The government's opposition suggests a potential showdown between the legislative and executive branches.
Related Posts