Abu Dhabi: Labour law violators would face stricter penalties now that the amnesty period has come to an end, said Dr Ali Bin Abdullah Al Ka'abi, Labour Minister.
"We are planning to have a country clear of illegal workers. A ministerial decree has been issued and tough regulations have been set. Action would be taken against anyone who would hire illegal workers," Al Ka'abi said.
The rules come into effect on October 1.
Seven types of offences have been identified.
In the worst scenario, a company would be downgraded to C category for three years. Repeat offence in such cases could even lead to cancellation of licence of the establishment.
The minister also informed that if a labour offence is repeated more than thrice the ministry could cancel the licence of the establishment or even cancel the work permit of any employee who is directly responsible for employing an illegal worker.
The ministry would suspend all dealings with erring companies, this would mean that no work permits would be issued and no transfer of sponsorship would be permitted.
Al Ka'abi said that it is important for people to understand that if a person is on your personal sponsorship (housemaids, farm workers etc) then they will not be allowed to work in your company, even if you wholly own the company.
Time has been given by the Ministry of Labour until October 1 to change such people to the company visa.
Al Ka'abi said that if non-national investors are found to allow people on their sponsorship to work elsewhere or they themselves work elsewhere then the Naturalisation and Residency department would be informed and asked to take necessary action.
