FIRST, I thank you for the editorial on Child Labour in your May 7, 2008 edition, under the headline, “Desist from employing Child labour” which printed inaccurate information. Yes, the Ministry is very serious about this matter and will be vigilant on behalf of our children.

I would like to clear the misinformation about the death on the East Coast that is being referred to in your article. The individual in this case was 17 years of age and not 14 years. While we abhor all deaths on the job this one cannot be determined as a child being employed, however, there are laws governing the employment of young persons (15-17 years) and he should not have been working in that environment in the first place.

I must thank you for this editorial on Child Labour and especially for pointing out that parents should not send their underage children (under 15 years) to work, and for reminding employers not to employ underaged persons.

I want to urge parents to make sure that they take care of their children’s safety and health by encouraging them to abide by the law.

Employers, I urge that you always ask for valid proof of age when hiring and whenever in doubt or have any questions; you can contact our Labour Division for guidance on the Labour, Occupational Safety & Health Laws.

Let us all work together to safeguard the future of our nation.
Hon. MANZOOR NADIR
MINISTER OF LABOUR