The Shura Council of Doha recently convened for its regular weekly meeting under the chairpersonship of HE Hassan bin Abdullah Al Ghanim. During the meeting, the council discussed various important topics concerning domestic workers, including their departure procedures and reorganization of recruitment agencies. The Internal and External Affairs Committee presented a report on the public discussion request related to the departure of domestic workers, which prompted the council to further examine the issue.
Following extensive discussions, the Council decided to submit a motion of desire to the government, outlining measures to regulate the departure of domestic workers. These measures include requiring workers to submit their leave or final departure requests through the ‘Metrash’ application to their employer for approval. The motion also emphasized the need for coordination among state authorities to prevent the illegal transfer of workers’ sponsorship and hold them accountable for their actions.
In addition to addressing the departure of domestic workers, the Council also discussed the reorganization and monitoring of recruitment agencies. A motion of desire was submitted to the government, calling for amendments to domestic worker contracts to ensure their responsibility in case of escape and payment of travel expenses. The motion also proposed establishing an insurance system to address financial implications of workers’ escape cases and increasing penalties for those who harbor or provide shelter to runaway domestic workers.
During the session, the Council approved several draft laws, including job localization in the private sector and amendments to laws regulating tenders and civil defense. They also reviewed reports on Qatari teachers refraining from the profession and the utilization of retirees in the labor market, deciding to further examine these issues. The session concluded with discussions on the participation of council delegations in international parliamentary events.
Overall, the Shura Council’s recent meeting addressed crucial issues related to domestic workers and proposed measures to regulate their departure and hold both workers and recruitment agencies accountable for any violations. The council’s decisions on draft laws and reports demonstrate their commitment to addressing key challenges in various sectors, with a focus on enhancing regulations and enforcement mechanisms for the benefit of both workers and employers.
