The parliamentary Committee on Social Affairs, on Saturday, approved an amendment to the Employment Act which mandates locals to occupy at least 60 percent of senior management positions.
This amendment was proposed by the parliamentary representative of Haa Alif's Ihavandhoo constituency Mohamed Shifau, who also suggested that managerial positions of companies employing more than 50 staff members must be occupied by Maldivians.
During the committee meeting, members heavily debated on the time-period prior to implementing the aforementioned amendments. Some MPs suggested a three-year period while others suggested a five-year period.
Both of these amendments were approved, with committee members finally concluding that the two articles will be implemented five years after the amendment comes into effect.
In June, parliamentary representative of Noonu Atoll's Kendhikulhudhoo constituency Ahmed Easa had stated that the amendment he proposed to the Employment Act, mandating employees to submit medical certificates if they apply for a single day of sick leave, will also be rectified during the committee review stage.
The proposal was met with backlash from the public, with many raising concerns over the challenges in acquiring medical certificates, especially in cases related to menstruation and mental health issues.
Amidst accusations that parliament representatives were working in favour of employers as opposed to the common citizen, MP Easa vowed to amend his suggestion, allowing every employee with 15 days of sick leave per year.
However, this alteration has yet to be finalised by the Social Affairs Committee.
Amendments to the Employment Act were amongst the first bills submitted to the parliament by the Attorney General's (AG) Office during the first session of 2020.
Sign In
