The Commissioner for Labour, Ms May Chan, has paid visits to a number of labour organisations and employer associations since assuming office in September, including visiting the Employers' Federation of Hong Kong today (October 27) to understand more about the concerns of employees and employers on various labour matters and strengthen communication and engagement with both sides.

     Ms Chan called on major labour organisations, namely the Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions, the Federation of Hong Kong & Kowloon Labour Unions, the Hong Kong & Kowloon Trades Union Council and the Association for the Rights of Industrial Accident Victims. These labour organisations expressed concerns over occupational safety and health (OSH) protection for employees and supported the Government in increasing the penalties of OSH legislation. They also shared their views on various issues such as enhancing employment support and improving labour rights and protection.

     At the same time, Ms Chan visited major employer associations, namely the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce, the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce, the Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong, the Federation of Hong Kong Industries and the Employers' Federation of Hong Kong. She exchanged views with the business sector on manpower supply and demand, the abolition of the "offsetting" arrangement under the Mandatory Provident Fund system, the amendments to OSH legislation penalties, etc.

     Ms Chan said, "The Labour Department will continue to foster candid communication between employees and employers, and join hands to achieve a win-win situation for both sides. The Legislative Council Bills Committee is scrutinising the Occupational Safety and Occupational Health Legislation (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2022 to increase the maximum penalties of OSH legislation. We appeal for early passage of the bill by the Legislative Council in order to strengthen OSH protection for employees as soon as possible. The Labour Department will continue to enhance the OSH level of various industries through inspection and enforcement, publicity and promotion, as well as education and training."

Ends/Thursday, October 27, 2022
Issued at HKT 18:25

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