International Workers’ Day-Minister calls for more harmony in workplaces |02 May 2008
“Government has put in place the necessary structures to facilitate this process but more
The full text of Mrs Mondon’s message reads:
“The 1st May, Labour Day, is the International Workers’ Day. It is a day of special significance and importance for all workers of the world. It is a day of solidarity, a day to celebrate the unity of workers and their achievements.
“In Seychelles workers not only commemorate this day through celebrations and leisure activities, it is also an occasion to reflect upon issues affecting workers or workers’ interest.
“The theme chosen for Labour Day 2008 is ‘Travay i en drwa e en devwar: Seselwa annou travay’. The theme reflects this year’s national theme: ‘Our Constitution – The Voice of Our Nation’.
“The right of every citizen to work and to just and favourable conditions of work is enshrined in Article 35 of our Constitution. The state also undertakes to maintain a high stable level of employment, protect the rights of citizens to earn a dignified living in freely chosen employment, ensure fair conditions of employment and promote collective agreements.
“ ‘Travay i en devwar’ reminds us that rights go hand in hand with responsibilities and that responsibilities have to be undertaken so that rights can be exercised to the fullest.
“Thus, in the realization of our rights we also need to take cognizance of our duties. On this occasion therefore it is important for us to reflect on the subject of rights and duties of our citizens in relation to work.
“This year’s theme also calls for more emphasis on the promotion of productivity, efficiency, discipline and good work attitude in the workplace. Each worker in his/her respective area of work is called upon to produce to the highest of his/her abilities and thus contribute to the prosperity of the country, the industry and of his own prosperity.
“I would also like to seize this opportunity to call for more harmony in workplaces. This can only be achieved through proper dialogue and increased consultation between employer and employees in the workplace. Government has put in place the necessary structures to facilitate this process but more effort is needed from the social partners to make it happen.
“Labour Day is also an opportunity to reaffirm to our workers that all jobs are important. “Our job seekers need to be more flexible in their choice of jobs and make use of available job opportunities in the labour market.
“I would like to encourage more young people to pursue a career in our Tourism and Fisheries Industry. These are national priority areas where many jobs are available.
“Finally I call on all workers in Seychelles to work hard and earn more so that we can also benefit from the wealth that our country is generating.
“I wish all workers of Seychelles, a Happy Labour Day!”