The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

Opposition MPs yesterday slammed the Government as one of “worst offenders” in workplace relations, as debate began in the House of Assembly yesterday on the controversial labour law reforms.

Loretta Butler-Turner, the Opposition’s House of Assembly leader, told Parliament there were “pros and cons” to the proposed  amendments to the Employment Act and Industrial Relations Act.

“There has to be greater equilibrium brought to the legislation,” she said. “Don’t make either side the bad guy. Let us not black ball employers, and let us not blackball employees.”

The Long Island MP called on the Government to foster dialogue between all sides for balance and harmonious relations.

    She added: “As the head goes, so goes the tail. The Government has a lot of room for improvement because they have Bahamians working without being compensated, so they are setting a bad example for employers.

“They cannot put the entire rap on employers. They have to get it right and others will fall in line. The Government is the largest employer.”

Montagu MP, Richard Lightbourn, questioned why the legislation was only being brought to Parliament at the “ninth hour”, accusing the Christie administration of “rushing the legislation through” to ensure that it becomes law before the general election.

He also labelled the Government as one of the “worst offenders” in labour relations, referencing the number of “unregularised” workers within the civil service.

Labour Minister, Shane Gibson, replied that the Christie administration has been moving to bring the number of temporary and contractual workers within the civil service to a minimum by making them permanent and pensionable.

Dr Andre Rollins expressed concern over the impact the reforms would have on the business community and, ultimately, the wider economy.

“The economy is moving dismally and this has caused consternation on the part of employers. They are the ones responsible for minimising the further deterioration of the economy by holding o nto employees and minimising job losses where possible,” said Dr Rollins.