MUSCAT – His Excellency underscored the Council’s intent to follow up on the suspension of job security benefit payments of laid-off workers, and to work towards sustainable solutions that uphold social and economic stability for citizens.

The meeting comes as part of the Shura Council’s ongoing efforts to represent the voice of the people and fulfil its national duty by actively engaging with citizen concerns. The Council emphasised that the issue of laid-off workers is being followed closely and given special importance due to its direct impact on the livelihood and social security of many Omani families.

During the discussion, the laid-off workers stressed the urgency of resuming the payment of the benefit and the importance of creating job opportunities that match their expertise and qualifications.
In response, the Shura Council outlined a set of proposed measures, including:

1. Urgent resumption of job security benefit payments to those laid-off.
2. A review of current disbursement mechanisms to ensure they are in line with the cost of living.
3. Assess the mechanism for offering alternative jobs to those laid off, taking into account competence and experience to ensure a decent standard of living.
4. The creation of an updated, integrated job database at the Ministry of Labour to better align job offerings with individual profiles.
5. Exploring retirement pathways for eligible individuals as a route to long-term social stability.
   The Shura Council continues its efforts, in coordination with the relevant authorities, to ensure a radical solution to the issue of those laid off from work, emphasising that social stability for Omani citizens is a national priority.