MUSCAT : The Shura Council, through its Youth and Human Resources Committee and Economic and Financial Committee, held a joint meeting with His Excellency Khalid Suleiman Al-Ghamari, Undersecretary for Labour, and ministry specialists to discuss the Wage Protection System and the reintegration of employees dismissed from Oman Air and Al Bashayer Meat Company.

During the session, the Youth and Human Resources Committee engaged in extensive discussions regarding the role played by the Ministry of Labour in the ongoing restructuring at Oman Air and Al Bashayer. The Committee was briefed on the latest developments in the re-employment plan proposed for those employees excluded from the restructuring process, with the aim of creating appropriate job opportunities for them.

Committee members also shared their observations and opinions concerning the restructuring, citing feedback previously received from the affected employees, and their remarks on the technical aspects of the new contracts being offered. They further stressed the need for qualifying and training these employees so that they may be absorbed into roles and positions under the Investment Authority.

Joint discussions were also held between the Youth and Human Resources Committee and the Economic and Financial Committee with the Undersecretary. These discussions addressed the implications of the Wage Protection System and the Ministry’s initiatives to enhance it. During the exchange, the participants were apprised of the rationale behind launching the system, its objectives, and the expected outcomes.

They also reviewed the Ministry’s plan regarding exemptions for certain professions unique to the Sultanate of Oman, as well as its approach to reducing imposed fines—proposing that such fines be levied on the establishment rather than on the number of employees with delayed wages, as was originally implemented.

The meeting further examined the possibility of a phased implementation of the penalty provisions or the establishment of a fixed timeline and grace period. This measure is intended to ensure the continued operation of small and medium enterprises without undue financial burden, with particular facilitation being extended to micro-companies under the Wage Protection System.

A range of proposals was also raised during the meeting, including the establishment of an online portal for lodging complaints, an appeals committee to address grievances, and the creation of a 24-hour hotline to assist with inquiries. Besides, the Ministry’s efforts to provide an adjustment period for distressed companies were highlighted, ensuring that small businesses have enough time to adapt before fines are enforced.

Both committees stressed the importance of supporting SMEs, which are especially vulnerable to changes arising from the Wage Protection System. The discussions emphasized the need to balance regulatory measures with practical support for businesses, particularly those in the construction contracting sector, where implementing the system poses unique challenges.

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