Labour confederation praised for protecting workers’ legitimate rights

Speaking at the meeting, PM Phuc said over the past five years, coordination between the Government and the VGCL has been increased and promoted, as issues related to the legal and legitimate rights and interests of workers and trade union activities were promptly addressed.

He cited statistics showing that over the past five years, the number of jobs increased by 26%, the minimum wage increased 1.3 times over, average incomes increased by 35% and working conditions have greatly improved.

Trade Union organisations have played an active role in participating in building and perfecting systems of policies and laws related to employees, as well as in institutional building, monitoring and contributing to building clean and strong Party and governmental organisations at all levels.

PM Phuc praised the important role of the working class in the existence and development of modern society, adding that although accounting for only 14% of the population and 27% of the social workforce, the annual contribution of the working class to the country accounts for more than 65% of the gross domestic product and more than 70% of the State budget.

In the new stage of development, the growth of the working class and the Vietnam Trade Union organisation is a prerequisite for national innovation, industrialisation, modernisation and international integration. Therefore caring for and ensuring sustainable jobs and improving living standards and working conditions for workers is an important and urgent task for the Party, State, entire political system and society, of which the trade union plays a big role and responsibility, PM Phuc stressed.

He urged the relevant ministries, agencies and local authorities to closely coordinate with trade unions and employers to develop land planning, housing construction, schools and other worker-services, stressing that this is a mission that should be given special priority over the next five years to care for and support workers.

The Government encourages employers to apply modern technical standards and management systems as well as advanced, environmentally friendly technology to production and business activities, thereby improving working conditions and ensuring safety for employees.

The State allocates resources to assist localities and businesses to build houses for workers, PM Phuc said, expressing his hope that enterprises and employers will take care of business development in parallel with caring for workers in order to harmonise the interests of both sides.

The PM also called on all workers across the country to promote Vietnamese working-class traditions to overcome difficulties, improve qualifications and creativeness in their labour and contribute to the growth of each business, for the happiness of each family and the prosperity of the whole country.

With the Lunar New Year (Tet) approaching, the PM urged all sectors, the VGCL and enterprises to pay attention to workers, especially those in difficult circumstances, to help them enjoy a warm and peaceful Tet.