May 31, 2008	Saturday	Jamadi-ul-Awwal 25, 1429

SUKKUR, May 30: The inability of Labour Department’s officials to recover arrears of education cess and social security from commercial and industrial concerns irked Sindh Minister for Labour and Manpower Ameer Nawab who gave a deadline of June to meet the target or face action, including dismissal.

He deplored the performance of a large number of workers in Sukkur region while addressing officials of the Sindh Employees and Security Institution in Director’s office.

He advised them either to change their attitude or prepare for severe action as there may be surprise raids to evaluate their performance.

He expressed dissatisfaction over the performance of medical dispensaries and SESSI clinics in Sukkur region and called for a report.

“Some officials during the meeting were ignorant of details and data of their department which showed their commitment toward jobs”, he said.

He sought details of Education Cess collection from the Director General Workers Welfare Board Sindh, Director Labour Sindh, and Director Manpower and Training.

He said funds collected by officials go toward their salaries and it was painful to know that only a small number of commercial and industrial units were registered with the Labour Department and asked them to enhance these, as he personally would monitor the situation.

Earlier, during the visit to Fauji Fertilizer Factory (FFC) Mirpur Mathelo he held a meeting with the Unions of the FFC, Liberty Power Plant, Mari Gas, Engro and the OGDC.

Labour leaders demanded establishment of a separate labour court at Mirpur Mathelo because of problems they face in cases and litigations at a remote place in Sukkur. The minister promised for taking up the issue soon.