Ministry to compile data on 'Safe House' detainees

by Ananda Kannangara

Labour Relations and Foreign Employment Ministry on Friday decided to compile data of all Sri Lankan migrant workers held in foreign 'safe houses' and detention camps.

The decision was taken by the Ministry following a report received by the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) on 350 Sri Lankan workers who have taken refuge in 'safe houses' and detention camps in several Middle Eastern countries.

SLBFE chairman Jagath Wellawatte told the Sunday Observer majority of the victims were reported from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Kuwait, Dubai and Lebanon. "There are a few in other Middle Eastern countries and we have taken action to bring them back," he assured. He said during the past few months a large number of workers were flown back to Sri Lanka after the intervention of the Bureau.

"Twenty one were brought in last Wednesday and 40 others will be airlifted in the next three weeks," he said. He expressed concern over the present position of these workers and said non payment of salaries, excessive work, ill-treatment and not releasing the workers even after the expiry date of their job contracts were some of the complaints made by them.

"However, the workers in safe houses have been looked after by our labour officials attached to the respective Embassies," the Chairman said.

A senior Labour Ministry official when contacted, reiterated that

Minister Athauda Seneviratne had personally met his counterparts in most of the job providing countries during his recent visits and a firm assurance was given on the safe return of our workers.