Launch Event. Good Labour Practices (GLP) Programme for Shrimp and Seafood Processing. and Fishing Industry in Thailand. Bangkok, 16 August 2013

Transcription

1 Launch Event Good Labour Practices (GLP) Programme for Shrimp and Seafood Processing and Fishing Industry in Thailand Bangkok, 16 August 2013 Remarks by Mr Maurizio Bussi Officer-in-Charge ILO Country Office for Thailand, Cambodia and Lao PDR Your Excellency Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives Mr. Siriwat Kajorn-Prasat, Your Excellency Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Labour Ms. Pranin Muttaharat Ambassadors and other members of the diplomatic corps Representatives of the seafood industry Representatives of workers organizations Members of civil society groups Ladies and gentlemen Thank you for this opportunity to be part of a pioneering initiative. It is encouraging to see such an impressive audience. A unique gathering of senior 1 P a g e

2 policy makers, captains of industry, representative of workers, ambassadors and civil society partners. We often hear and read that the world is in the midst of a significant transition. This transition is political, as people around the world are increasingly asking for a greater role and say in shaping their own destiny. Workplaces and voices from the world of work have a key role in this transition. It is developmental, as we seek a more sustainable path and a life of dignity for all. And of course, it is economic, as new actors emerge. Today s engines of growth are largely in the emerging economies. We see the ever-rising significance of Asia, including the ASEAN region. ASEAN economies and societies are transforming literally before our eyes. As political and business leaders of Thailand well-versed in the region, you know this well. 2 P a g e

3 We also know well that governments alone cannot solve all development challenges. This includes the challenges the world of work is facing. Partnerships with business are crucial to advancing a common agenda that promotes growth, respects and protects workers and in doing so act for the common good. I am deeply convinced that principles, values and profits can go hand-in-hand. The ILO has been at the forefront of this agenda since its birth in Business success requires delivering long-term value not just financially, but also socially, environmentally and ethically. Today we are here to witness an important milestone for the Government of Thailand, for the seafood industry, and for its workers. We are here to note their commitment to eradicate unacceptable forms of work from the seafood industry across Thailand. It is an industry that is faced by significant problems on labour issues and need to make efforts towards a zero tolerance regime on child labour, forced labour and on any form of human trafficking related to employment. It is an industry that needs to 3 P a g e

4 improve working and employment conditions across its supply chain. It is an industry that needs to respect and protect all Thai workers and the thousands of migrant workers it employs. It is and industry that needs to lead in thought and in action. What the Good labour Practices programme does is to create a joint platform where the industry and its various stakeholders can effectively work together and find solutions to labour related issues. I am encouraged to see in the audience today so many representatives from the industry, from employers organisations and trade unions, both of which have played a crucial role in the development of this programme. Employers organizations like ECOT and industry associations like TFFA and TFPA not only supported the development of the programme. They have also ensured a close engagement of their constituents and committed to continue with robust advocacy efforts and practical action. Trade unions are fundamental partners. They add their voice and an additional layer of understanding on labour laws. They will work hand in hand with 4 P a g e

5 employers in hundreds of workplace initiatives. And they will ensure that workers are constructive partners in the industry s efforts. Thailand is looking at the world as a global market for its seafood products. And around the world informed consumers have a growing expectation for ethical and sustainable sourcing practices. Practices that are based on decent work, social justice and opportunity for all. As such, this program is structured so that critical areas of labour rights in the supply chain of shrimp and seafood processing industry are addressed so that workplaces become more equipped to be in compliance with Thai laws and international labour standards. This programme has the potential to be is a stepping stone and a platform towards the right direction. It is not a panacea or a quick fix for all problems faced by this sector, but provides a starting point for a common understanding of expected standards. 5 P a g e

6 I am confident that the international business partners of this industry will find this initiative a compelling way to promote the systematic application of core labour standards across the entire supply chain. This work we are launching today will be effective if combined with other efforts to address labour issues in the sector. It calls for the Thai government to strengthen its labour inspection system. It calls for employers and workers organizations to be more proactively engaged and become scorekeepers and campaign managers for this initiative. It calls for joint tripartite action in developing workplace mechanisms to address grievances and create a culture of social dialogue. Launching these guidelines and signing into this GLP training programme gives the right kind of signals that the industry is committed and willing to lead the way in promoting the realization of core labour standards and in eliminating unacceptable forms of work, including for migrant workers. As such there is good potential to change the lives of workers. We can collectively show how through Government, industry and workers 6 P a g e

7 organizations cooperation working conditions can be improved, abuses eradicated and the general wellbeing of the industry advanced. You all understand well the high stakes for jobs, for trade relations, for social justice and for the reputation of the industry across the world. Over its long and rich history, Thailand has looked to itself, to the West, and to the East. In todays changing world Asia s businesses are poised to lead the Asia-pacific century. For this, Thailand along with its businesses should now look to, and more fully embrace, universal values. You have a major role to play in this age of responsibility, and in bringing a life of dignity to all. Your ideas, energy and commitment are crucial to the future of this vibrant country. I thank you for your attention. ****** 7 P a g e