By T.R. Dixon
MONROVIA: The Confederation of Mano River Sub-Reginal Migration Free Trade Union of West Africa (COMTUWA), has expressed its resolve and willingness to collaborate with the Government of Liberia (GOL), in building a strong democratic and United Sub-Reginal Confederation of Workers.
COMTUWA is also dedicated to advocacy for the rights and dignity of workers and their firm protection in Liberia and the West African sub-region.
Speaking yesterday, at a news conference held in Monrovia, the Secretary General of COMTUWA, Jerry R. B. Duplaye, underscored the importance of protecting the basic rights and dignity of workers in all categories in the West African sub-region.
He asserted that workers of all categories should be protected against trafficking, bad labor practices, illegal dismissal, among many other ills in their respective countries.
Mr. Duplaye also underscored the need for the capacities of Workers Unions in the sub-region to be strengthened and enhanced for robust and sustainable growth and development.
The Confederation of Mano River Sub-Reginal Migration Free Trade Union of West Africa (COMTUWA) was established few years ago.
The Union’s documents were probated by the Government of Liberia and subsequently certificated after it satisfied the necessary legal requirements as spelled out through the Ministry of Labor and consistent with section 34.2(A of the Executive laws and chapter 36.1 (11) of the Decent work Act of the 2015.
Addressing a News conference yesterday in Monrovia, Mr. Duplaye also disclosed that his organization will support initiatives aimed at uniting workers and other groups against poverty, and promote social inclusion as well as decent work, social welfare to work with affiliate to respond to socio-economic and political crises facing the West African region including threats and epidemics.
He said his organization will also represent the workers in the Mano River Union countries and other appropriate structures and work for the adoption of workers –friendly policy including those that promote capacity, equality, employment and sustainable economic development.
It seeks to play full and meaningful role in international Trade Confederation Africa and Organization of Africa Trade Union Unity activities and strengthen relations with Global Trade Unions such as the International Labor Organization and civil society organization in pursuit of common goals,” he said.
He asserted that his organization will also engage in international and national solidarity actions between national centers and affiliates, and to ensure organizational rights enshrined in the instruments of the International Labor Organization (ILO), Africa Union, ECOWAS and the national government are respected and adhered.
He said COMTUWA will conduct seminars and workshops for migrants and domestic workers leaders of the sub-regional level to facilitate the sharing of strategies and the raising of public awareness.
