Tex-ray sets path breaking example on labour relations
12 Apr '10
2 min read
The biggest employer in the textile and apparel sector in Swaziland has undertaken sweeping changes in the way it conducts its labour relations, to take care that these standards meet the requirements of their US based buyers.
Tex-ray, which operates from 11 locations has around 11,000 employees on its rolls was under pressure from the Swaziland Manufacturing and Allied Workers' Union (SMAWU) for giving it due recognition and facilities.
According to an official of Tex-Ray, the most crucial factor in ensuring that the textile sector works smoothly, it is necessary to ensure a peaceful working environment by engaging the workers in their needs.
One such policy measure the company has undertaken is of non lay-offs in the event that, production is suspended, as a result of shortage of raw material, which has been the case in recent days.
So, even though there was no production, the workers continued to receive their salaries. The scarier part was that, incase the buyers came to know about labour unrest, it created a panic situation in their minds.
Amongst many things unions are demanding a decent pay considering the living cost, housing, education facilities for children, healthcare access for family and transportation and are warning of going on a strike, if they are not met.
Employers, however have a note of warning for the workers. They say that, in the event of a crippling strike, it is the workers and their families who will suffer the most, in case they decide to relocate their factories elsewhere.