Labour Ministry and Media Collaborate to Enforce New Employment Regulations

The Minister of Employment, Labour and Social
Security, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, has engaged the Sierra Leone Guild of
Newspaper Editors to discuss the implementation of the Employment Act 2023,
emphasizing the crucial role of journalists in educating the public about
labour laws and ensuring compliance.

During the meeting, held at the SLAJ hall, Minister Swaray addressed the assembled media heads, stressing their responsibility as agenda

setters in society. He highlighted the need for journalists to not only report
on labour issues but also to ensure that their own organizations are fully
compliant with the Employment Act 2023, particularly regarding NASSIT
contributions.

“As you play your role, ensure that you are also compliant.
Non-compliance will no longer be tolerated,” Minister Swaray stated,
underscoring the government’s commitment to enforcing labour laws. He urged the
media to take its role seriously, stating, “Let’s do this for our
people.” The Minister reiterated that strict adherence to the new labour
laws is essential for the well-being of workers and the overall progress of the
nation.

The Director of Employment and Labour, Judah Bockarie, provided a detailed
PowerPoint presentation outlining the basic employment obligations under the
new Act. He explained key provisions of the Employment Act 2023, including the
requirements for employers to make regular NASSIT contributions, adhere to
minimum wage laws, provide safe working conditions, and respect workers’ rights
to unionize and bargain collectively

The presentation also covered the penalties for non-compliance, which
include substantial fines and potential legal action. Director Bockarie
emphasized the importance of these regulations in promoting a fair and just
working environment, which in turn would contribute to national economic
stability and growth.

The engagement aimed to foster a collaborative effort between the Ministry
and the media to ensure that labour laws are effectively communicated and enforced.
Minister Swaray encouraged the editors to use their platforms to educate
employers and employees about their rights and responsibilities under the law.
He stressed the need for accurate and responsible journalism in this regard,
noting that misinformation could lead to misunderstandings and non-compliance.

In a Q&A session following the presentation, several editors raised
concerns about the practical challenges of implementing the new laws,
especially for smaller media houses with limited resources. Minister Swaray
acknowledged these challenges but insisted that compliance was non-negotiable.
He assured the editors that the Ministry would provide support and guidance to
help all organizations meet their obligations.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from both the Ministry and
the Guild of Newspaper Editors to work together in promoting labour law
compliance. Minister Swaray expressed his optimism that with the media’s
support, the Employment Act 2023 would be effectively implemented, leading to
better working conditions and improved livelihoods for workers across Sierra
Leone.