MORE than 9,000 expatriates of different nationalities have been deported from Bahrain since the beginning of last year as part of a major campaign aimed at stamping out labour violations.
According to the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA), from May 18 to 24, a total of 1,325 inspections were held alongside 12 joint campaigns, leading to the identification of 22 irregular workers and the deportation of 160 individuals.
The most recent round of joint campaigns were held in co-ordination with the Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA) and the respective governorate’s Police Directorate.
Most joint inspections were focused on the Capital Governorate (eight), followed by the Southern Governorate (two), and the Northern and Muharraq Governorates (one each).
The LMRA has confirmed in a statement yesterday that legal action was being taken against the violators.
Since January last year, a total of 76,914 inspection visits and 1,092 joint campaigns have been carried out, resulting in the identification of 3,161 violations and the deportation of 9,036 irregular workers.
The authority affirmed the continuation of joint co-ordination with government agencies to intensify inspection campaigns in all governorates of the kingdom.
It also confirmed it will continue to address any violations or practices that negatively affect the stability and competitiveness of the labour market or harm economic and social security of the kingdom.
People are being urged to report illegal labour practices and violations via the website www.lmra.gov.bh, by calling 1750605 5 or via the government’s suggestions and complaints system, Tawasul.
According to official estimates, there are about 30,000 undocumented expats in the country, but that number has been reduced due to the ongoing LMRA campaigns or workers rectifying their status.
In recent years, Bahrain has enforced tough new regulations to prevent the misuse of tourist visas and to ensure those seeking employment arrive with proper work permits issued by their employers.
These measures also aim to provide job opportunities for Bahrainis and reduce unemployment by supporting citizens as the first choice for employers.
LMRA chief executive Nibras Talib earlier told MPs that the introduction of the new rules has had a huge impact, with the incidence of tourist or visit visas being converted into work permits dropping by more than 87 per cent.
Under the new rules, a visit visa can no longer be converted into a work or dependent visa without a sponsor.
However, visit visas with a sponsor can be transferred to a work or dependent visa for a revised fee of BD250, instead of the previous BD60, only if it is for the same sponsor.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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