The Daily Tribune, 29 October 2024: Employers in Bahrain’s private sector could soon need to notify authorities before suspending workers, and dismissed employees might get twice as long to file compensation claims, as Parliament debates new rules today.

The government’s draft law, submitted to the Council of Representatives has proposed two main updates to Bahrain’s Labour Law, introducing added checks on employers’ actions and extending protections for workers.

One proposal would require employers to notify authorities before suspending workers for serious misconduct.

Currently, employers have some discretion to temporarily suspend a worker in cases of harm or serious offences, but this adjustment would mean they must inform relevant authorities first, limiting employers’ ability to act independently in such cases.

Another proposed change would extend the timeframe for workers to file a claim after losing their job, increasing it from 30 days to 60.

Supporters say this additional time could help workers prepare stronger cases, though the government cautions that delaying claims might make it harder to gather reliable evidence and could slow the resolution of disputes.

In its memo, the government expresses concerns that these changes may disrupt the balance between worker protection and workplace stability.

Officials argue that requiring employers to notify authorities of suspensions could make it harder to handle misconduct, which might unsettle the work environment.

They also warn that an extended claim period could affect evidence quality, as time may erode details and reduce clarity in witness accounts.

The government also questions the proposed three-month cap on investigations by the Public Prosecution, arguing that it may infringe on judicial independence by imposing a strict timeline on prosecutors.

While recognising Parliament’s aim to strengthen worker rights, the government suggests a balanced approach that keeps workplaces steady.

Today’s debate may bring about changes to Bahrain’s employment laws, with these proposals potentially influencing how workplace disputes are handled in the future.

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