Revisions to Labour Code under discussion

Hanoi (VNA) – The Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (MoLISA) held a conference in Hanoi on September 21 to review the three-year enforcement of the Labour Code 2012 and acquire feedback of businesses from Hanoi and the northern provinces of Vinh Phuc, Ha Nam and Bac Ninh.

The amendments and supplements to the Labour Code are expected to be submitted to the 14 th National Assembly for discussion at the third session and for adoption at the fourth session slated for October 2017.

Speaking at the event, MoLISA Deputy Minister Pham Minh Huan said the ministry has so far received reports from 47 departments, 20 management boards, 13 corporations and associations, and 10 ministries and agencies.

Huan underscored the need to amend the Labour Code to meet international labour standards, develop harmonious labour relations and create a business environment conducive to businesses and workers, given that Vietnam has joined a free trade agreement with the European Union and the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

The revisions include increasing limit for extra work time and retirement ages, reconsidering procedures for strike, and priorities to firms that employ many female workers.

Several opinions suggested strengthening free legal consultation services, holding more dialogues and food safety training at the workplaces, and revising terms regarding salary and working time.

After the Labour Code was put into force on May 1, 2013, the government and MoLISA has issued 29 decrees and 37 circulars guiding the enforcement of the Code.-VNA