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Protest against Labor Code

Netgazeti reports that the Georgian Trade Unions Confederation (GTUC) organized a protest rally on June 10. Protesters discouraged changes to the Labor Code carried out at the second reading.

Head of the professional union of Georgian Metallurgic, Mining and Chemical Industry, Tamaz Dolaberidze, said that with “the blackmail and influence” of the businessmen, Georgian Parliament and government will create problems for society. He said the fact that the proposed changes were approved with its first reading means that the MPs had principally the same positions over the amendments, while at the second reading they withdraw the articles that regulated labor contracts, surplus work, compensation for maternity decree, etc.

“We protest and demand that the Georgian Dream coalition once and for all fulfill their election promises, in particular – carry out the changes to the “slavery” Labor Code,” Dolaberidze said.

Workers from Kutaisi, Ksani and Zestaponi attended the rally together with the miners from Tchiatura and Tkibuli; professional union of Metropolitan and Teachers were also there.

Stressing that the salary for the night shift should be different from the day’s, the protesters claimed working hours should not increase from 40 to 48.

On May 30 Parliament approved of the proposed changes to the Labor Code on its second reading with 89 votes against 0.



Ministry of regional development and Infrastructure to allocate 80 million Gel for IDPs

Interpressnews reports that the Ministry of Regional development and Infrastructure plans to spend around 80 million GEL to support IDPs this year. Meeting with the United Nations Special Rapporteur, Chaloka Beyani; Minister Davit Narmania and his deputy Shota Murghulia spoke about the improvements of housing for IDPs. The UN Special Rapporteur took interest in the projects the ministry carries out in this direction.

According to the ministry, 80 million GEL will be used for improving the living conditions for IDPs at compact settlements, as well as finance construction of new apartments in Poti and Zugdidi.

The sides paid particular attention to the construction activities in Zugdidi. Minister Narmania said a seven-story block of flats will be built in Zugdidi for 280 IDP families. The project is being carried out with the support and financing of KFW.

Narmania said employment is an important factor for the socio-economic integration of IDPs.