Members of Parliament (MPs) in Bahrain are calling for a more fair approach to imposing fines on businesses for foreign workers’ permit violations. Currently, all businesses face a standard fine of BD1,000 for any violations, regardless of their size or economic activity. However, MPs argue that this one-size-fits-all approach is unfair, especially for small businesses that may struggle to pay such hefty fines. They propose a more graduated approach, starting with a warning for initial violations, followed by small fines and incremental penalties for repeat offenses.
The lawmakers point out that many small businesses, particularly in sectors like construction that heavily rely on foreign labor, have been forced to shut down due to the burden of these fines. They believe that by implementing a more flexible penalty system, organizations will have the opportunity to rectify their mistakes and avoid financial ruin. Additionally, MPs are advocating for closer collaboration between the private sector and the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) to ensure that new regulations take into account the specific challenges faced by businesses.
MPs have consulted with business owners who have expressed concerns about the current fine system, which often exceeds their earnings and hinders their ability to operate effectively. They argue that the existing flat fine structure needs to be reevaluated to better align with market realities and support business growth. By proposing a more balanced and fair system, MPs hope to encourage compliance and foster a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
The proposal also addresses several loopholes in the current system, including issues related to transferring workers between companies owned by the same individual and compliance difficulties when workers are assigned different tasks. MPs believe that addressing these loopholes will lead to a more transparent and efficient regulatory framework. By refining the fine system and addressing underlying issues, lawmakers aim to create a regulatory environment that not only promotes compliance but also facilitates sustainable business growth.
In conclusion, Members of Parliament in Bahrain are advocating for a more nuanced approach to imposing fines on businesses for foreign workers’ permit violations. By considering the specific circumstances of businesses and implementing a graduated penalty system, MPs believe that organizations will have a fair chance to rectify their mistakes and avoid financial hardships. Additionally, closer collaboration between the private sector and regulatory authorities is essential to ensure that new regulations are practical and address the challenges faced by businesses. By addressing loopholes in the current system and refining the fine structure, lawmakers hope to create a more fair and supportive regulatory environment that promotes compliance and business growth in Bahrain.
