Majlis A' Shura discuss repercussions of suspension of job security benefit for laid-off workers
The committee expressed concern over the social and economic hardships faced by affected citizens, emphasizing the urgent need to resume disbursement of the benefit provided by the Social Protection Fund. Members highlighted that many individuals have experienced a significant deterioration in living conditions, making it essential to restore the support to ensure psychological and social stability.
In their recommendations, the committee called on relevant authorities to take swift, practical steps, including empowering local governorates and decentralizing employment-related decisions. This would allow for region-specific solutions tailored to local labor market needs and redundancy challenges.
Members also stressed the importance of offering employment opportunities that align with the qualifications and professional experience of laid-off workers. They proposed the launch of requalification and reintegration programs that promote a dignified and secure return to the job market.
To improve long-term planning, the committee recommended the creation of a comprehensive, up-to-date database of job seekers and laid-off individuals. Such a tool would help shape more effective national employment strategies and policies.
Further proposals included reviewing or amending existing legislation to enhance workforce protections, reserving job vacancies in government and state-owned entities for laid-off nationals, and accelerating Omanisation by replacing expatriate-held positions with qualified Omani personnel. Raising the cost of hiring foreign labor in the private sector was also discussed as a way to encourage local recruitment.
In conclusion, the committee called for a holistic, long-term national strategy to address layoffs, focused on tackling root causes rather than short-term fixes. They emphasised the importance of legal and administrative reforms and the establishment of a national action plan to ensure employment stability and social justice for all Omani citizens.
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