In the backdrop of the rapidly evolving coronavirus outbreak, the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Bahrain took several initiatives to reach out to the Sri Lankan community members urging them to safely remain where they are staying until the vulnerability of the virus is minimized and also to adhere to medical advice given by the Bahrain government’s health authorities.

The embassy also ensured that the Mission staff is at their disposal on a 24-hour work roster to address issues emanating due to the unprecedented situation. The Embassy further maintained close engagement with every possible establishment and household where Sri Lankan nationals are working, ensuring their safety and welfare as the foremost priority.

In this regard, the Embassy in close coordination with Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment took several measures to address and facilitate the instantaneous needs and concerns of Sri Lankan migrant workers affected due to the unforeseen pandemic situation.

Upon being notified of several issues of concern of Sri Lankan migrant workers engaged in sectors such as hospitality, cleaning, domestic and other commercial entities with complaints of nonpayment of salary, food and accommodation, the Mission promptly took up such issues with the concerned employers and secured reasonable solutions here both parties were satisfied.

With regard to female domestic sector workers, the Embassy managed to find the virtual solutions with the assistance of the foreign licensed agents in Bahrain to guarantee that these domestic workers remain in their workplaces safely and that the facilities be provided by their sponsors as usual.

Similarly, the hospitality industry, one of the dominant sectors in Bahrain’s economy too has been shaken and many unskilled workers. In this regard, the Embassy regularly keeps in touch with employees and management and has flagged issues of Sri Lankan workers such as food, accommodation and non-payment of salaries in order to find out amicable solutions.

SOURCE: ALBILADENGLISH