Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2021, published 110th ILC session (2022)

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2020, published 109th ILC session (2021)

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2019, published 109th ILC session (2021)

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2018, published 108th ILC session (2019)

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2017, published 107th ILC session (2018)

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2016, published 106th ILC session (2017)

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2015, published 105th ILC session (2016)

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2012, published 102nd ILC session (2013)

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2011, published 101st ILC session (2012)

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2009, published 99th ILC session (2010)

Legislation. Noting that section 24 of the Labour Standards Act is more restrictive than the principle of equal remuneration for men and women for work of equal value, the Committee had previously asked the Government to ensure that the provision was amended so as to be in conformity with the Convention. The Committee recalls that section 24 provides that “no employer shall establish or maintain differences in wages between male and female employees employed in the same business who are performing, under the same working conditions, the same work or jobs regarding similar skill, effort and responsibility”. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the Industrial Relations Advisory Committee (IRAC) has recently been appointed, and that the subject of amending section 24 will be placed on the agenda of the initial meeting for deliberation and subsequent referral to the Minister. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on the date that the initial meeting of the IRAC is expected to be held, and on the progress made in amending section 24 of the Labour Standards Act in order to give full expression to the principle of equal remuneration for work of equal value.

Objective job evaluation in the public service. The Committee notes that the Government refers to a comprehensive job evaluation programme that was undertaken 12 years ago in the public service, and states that it is trying to obtain a copy of the manual used during that process. The Committee, however,  encourages the Government to consider reviewing its job evaluation process undertaken 12 years ago, with a specific objective being to ensure equal remuneration for men and women for work of equal value, and asks it to provide information on any progress made in this regard. The Committee also looks forward to the Government providing the job evaluation manual that was used by the Establishment, Personnel and Training Department.

Awareness raising. The Committee notes that the Government has conducted a radio programme to raise public awareness of various issues, including aspects of job discrimination and equal remuneration, and that it expects this process to be ongoing. The Committee asks the Government to continue to provide information on any training and awareness-raising activities related to the principle of the Convention, and also to provide information on the impact of those activities.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2007, published 97th ILC session (2008)

1. Legislation. The Committee recalls that section 24 of the Labour Standards Act provides that “no employer shall establish or maintain differences in wages between male and female employees employed in the same business who are performing, under the same working conditions, the same work or jobs regarding similar skill, effort and responsibility”. Over the years, the Committee has indicated on various occasions that section 24 is more restrictive than the principle of equal remuneration for men and women for work of equal value, as contained in the Convention, for the reasons set out in its 2006 general observation (see paragraph 3). In its general observation, the Committee noted the importance of giving full legislative expression to the principle of the Convention, providing not only for equal remuneration for equal, the same or similar work, but also prohibiting pay discrimination that occurs in situations where men and women perform different work that is nevertheless of equal value (paragraph 6). The Committee therefore asks the Government to ensure that section 24 of the Labour Standards Act is amended as soon as possible in order to give full expression to the principle of equal remuneration for work of equal value. Please indicate any further developments in this regard.

2. Objective job evaluation in the public service. The Committee notes that the documents provided by the Government concerning the employee assessment and development review deal with the assessment of the performance of individual public service employees, rather than objective job evaluation as referred to in Article 3 of the Convention (i.e. an evaluation of the tasks of the different positions on the basis of objective criteria). Recalling that the Government previously reported that a job evaluation manual was being used by the Establishment, Personnel and Training Department, the Committee asks the Government to provide a copy of this job evaluation manual.

3. Awareness raising. The Committee notes the Government’s activities in the area of awareness raising on gender equality. It asks the Government to continue to provide such information, including indications on how the principle of equal remuneration for men and women for work of equal value is being promoted through these activities.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2006, published 96th ILC session (2007)

The Committee notes once again with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes the adoption of the Education Act No. 11 of 1997 and in particular its provisions (Part VI) concerning the establishment and the functions of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Council (TVEC). The TVEC is, among others, responsible for preparing plans for technical and vocational education and training in accordance with national policies and economic needs, establishing training priorities, qualification and accreditation, advising on allocation of resources and making recommendations as regards regulations respecting technical and vocational education and training. The Committee would be grateful if the Government could supply in its next report information on the activities undertaken or planned by the TVEC which have a bearing on the application of the Convention. In this connection, it also wishes to draw the Government’s attention to its comments made under the Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111).

2. The Committee notes that, in the context of the Public Service Administrative Reform Programme (which is being managed by the Establishment, Personnel and Training Department), use is being made of a job evaluation manual which includes an analytical methodology based on objective criteria and that a tripartite committee is responsible for the implementation of the job evaluation. As it would appear that the application of the Convention to the public service would be applied through the use of the job evaluation, the Government is requested to supply a copy of the manual and information on its application.

3. Referring to its previous comments concerning the application of section 24 of the Labour Standards Act of 1977 (prohibiting differences in wages between male and female workers employed in the same business who are performing, under the same working conditions, the same or similar work or jobs requiring similar skill, effort and responsibility), the Committee requests the Government to indicate how the principle of equal remuneration between men and women for work of equal value is applied in practice. The Committee would also be grateful if the Government would supply information on any other measures taken or contemplated to promote and facilitate the application of the provisions of the Convention. Such measures could include public information and awareness-raising campaigns promoting the principles of the Convention or initiatives taken by the Government, in cooperation with organizations of employers and workers, to promote, in general, equality of opportunity and treatment between men and women in employment.

4. The Committee refers to its general observation of 1998 and hopes that the Government will provide sufficient information to enable the Committee to assess the implementation of the Convention in practice.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2005, published 95th ILC session (2006)

The Committee notes once again with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes the adoption of the Education Act No. 11 of 1997 and in particular its provisions (Part VI) concerning the establishment and the functions of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Council (TVEC). The TVEC is, among others, responsible for preparing plans for technical and vocational education and training in accordance with national policies and economic needs, establishing training priorities, qualification and accreditation, advising on allocation of resources and making recommendations as regards regulations respecting technical and vocational education and training. The Committee would be grateful if the Government could supply in its next report information on the activities undertaken or planned by the TVEC which have a bearing on the application of the Convention. In this connection, it also wishes to draw the Government’s attention to its comments made under the Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111).

2. The Committee notes that, in the context of the Public Service Administrative Reform Programme (which is being managed by the Establishment, Personnel and Training Department), use is being made of a job evaluation manual which includes an analytical methodology based on objective criteria and that a tripartite committee is responsible for the implementation of the job evaluation. As it would appear that the application of the Convention to the public service would be applied through the use of the job evaluation, the Government is requested to supply a copy of the manual and information on its application.

3. Referring to its previous comments concerning the application of section 24 of the Labour Standards Act of 1977 (prohibiting differences in wages between male and female workers employed in the same business who are performing, under the same working conditions, the same or similar work or jobs requiring similar skill, effort and responsibility), the Committee requests the Government to indicate how the principle of equal remuneration between men and women for work of equal value is applied in practice. The Committee would also be grateful if the Government would supply information on any other measures taken or contemplated to promote and facilitate the application of the provisions of the Convention. Such measures could include public information and awareness-raising campaigns promoting the principles of the Convention or initiatives taken by the Government, in cooperation with organizations of employers and workers, to promote, in general, equality of opportunity and treatment between men and women in employment.

4. The Committee refers to its general observation of 1998 and hopes that the Government will provide sufficient information to enable the Committee to assess the implementation of the Convention in practice.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2004, published 93rd ILC session (2005)

The Committee notes once more with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes the adoption of the Education Act No. 11 of 1997 and in particular its provisions (Part VI) concerning the establishment and the functions of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Council (TVEC). The TVEC is, among others, responsible for preparing plans for technical and vocational education and training in accordance with national policies and economic needs, establishing training priorities, qualification and accreditation, advising on allocation of resources and making recommendations as regards regulations respecting technical and vocational education and training. The Committee would be grateful if the Government could supply in its next report information on the activities undertaken or planned by the TVEC which have a bearing on the application of the Convention. In this connection, it also wishes to draw the Government’s attention to its comments made under the Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111).

2. The Committee notes that, in the context of the Public Service Administrative Reform Programme (which is being managed by the Establishment, Personnel and Training Department), use is being made of a job evaluation manual which includes an analytical methodology based on objective criteria and that a tripartite committee is responsible for the implementation of the job evaluation. As it would appear that the application of the Convention to the public service would be applied through the use of the job evaluation, the Government is requested to supply a copy of the manual and information on its application.

3. Referring to its previous comments concerning the application of section 24 of the Labour Standards Act of 1977 (prohibiting differences in wages between male and female workers employed in the same business who are performing, under the same working conditions, the same or similar work or jobs requiring similar skill, effort and responsibility), the Committee requests the Government to indicate how the principle of equal remuneration between men and women for work of equal value is applied in practice. The Committee would also be grateful if the Government would supply information on any other measures taken or contemplated to promote and facilitate the application of the provisions of the Convention. Such measures could include public information and awareness-raising campaigns promoting the principles of the Convention or initiatives taken by the Government, in cooperation with organizations of employers and workers, to promote, in general, equality of opportunity and treatment between men and women in employment.

4. The Committee refers to its general observation of 1998 and hopes that the Government will provide sufficient information to enable the Committee to assess the implementation of the Convention in practice.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2003, published 92nd ILC session (2004)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report contains no reply to previous comments. It hopes that the next report will include full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes the adoption of the Education Act No. 11 of 1997 and in particular its provisions (Part VI) concerning the establishment and the functions of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Council (TVEC). The TVEC is, among others, responsible for preparing plans for technical and vocational education and training in accordance with national policies and economic needs, establishing training priorities, qualification and accreditation, advising on allocation of resources and making recommendations as regards regulations respecting technical and vocational education and training. The Committee would be grateful if the Government could supply in its next report information on the activities undertaken or planned by the TVEC which have a bearing on the application of the Convention. In this connection, it also wishes to draw the Government’s attention to its comments made under the Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111).

2. The Committee notes that, in the context of the Public Service Administrative Reform Programme (which is being managed by the Establishment, Personnel and Training Department), use is being made of a job evaluation manual which includes an analytical methodology based on objective criteria and that a tripartite committee is responsible for the implementation of the job evaluation. As it would appear that the application of the Convention to the public service would be applied through the use of the job evaluation, the Government is requested to supply a copy of the manual and information on its application.

3. Referring to its previous comments concerning the application of section 24 of the Labour Standards Act of 1977 (prohibiting differences in wages between male and female workers employed in the same business who are performing, under the same working conditions, the same or similar work or jobs requiring similar skill, effort and responsibility), the Committee requests the Government to indicate how the principle of equal remuneration between men and women for work of equal value is applied in practice. The Committee would also be grateful if the Government would supply information on any other measures taken or contemplated to promote and facilitate the application of the provisions of the Convention. Such measures could include public information and awareness-raising campaigns promoting the principles of the Convention or initiatives taken by the Government, in cooperation with organizations of employers and workers, to promote, in general, equality of opportunity and treatment between men and women in employment.

4. The Committee refers to its general observation of 1998 and hopes that the Government will provide sufficient information to enable the Committee to assess the implementation of the Convention in practice.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2002, published 91st ILC session (2003)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report contains no reply to previous comments. It hopes that the next report will include full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes the adoption of the Education Act No. 11 of 1997 and in particular its provisions (Part VI) concerning the establishment and the functions of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Council (TVEC). The TVEC is, among others, responsible for preparing plans for technical and vocational education and training in accordance with national policies and economic needs, establishing training priorities, qualification and accreditation, advising on allocation of resources and making recommendations as regards regulations respecting technical and vocational education and training. The Committee would be grateful if the Government could supply in its next report information on the activities undertaken or planned by the TVEC which have a bearing on the application of the Convention. In this connection, it also wishes to draw the Government’s attention to its comments made under the Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111).

2. The Committee notes that, in the context of the Public Service Administrative Reform Programme (which is being managed by the Establishment, Personnel and Training Department), use is being made of a job evaluation manual which includes an analytical methodology based on objective criteria and that a tripartite committee is responsible for the implementation of the job evaluation. As it would appear that the application of the Convention to the public service would be applied through the use of the job evaluation, the Government is requested to supply a copy of the manual and information on its application.

3. Referring to its previous comments concerning the application of section 24 of the Labour Standards Act of 1977 (prohibiting differences in wages between male and female workers employed in the same business who are performing, under the same working conditions, the same or similar work or jobs requiring similar skill, effort and responsibility), the Committee requests the Government to indicate how the principle of equal remuneration between men and women for work of equal value is applied in practice. The Committee would also be grateful if the Government would supply information on any other measures taken or contemplated to promote and facilitate the application of the provisions of the Convention. Such measures could include public information and awareness-raising campaigns promoting the principles of the Convention or initiatives taken by the Government, in cooperation with organizations of employers and workers, to promote, in general, equality of opportunity and treatment between men and women in employment.

4. The Committee refers to its general observation of 1998 and hopes that the Government will provide sufficient information to enable the Committee to assess the implementation of the Convention in practice.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2001, published 90th ILC session (2002)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes the adoption of the Education Act No. 11 of 1997 and in particular its provisions (Part VI) concerning the establishment and the functions of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Council (TVEC). The TVEC is, among others, responsible for preparing plans for technical and vocational education and training in accordance with national policies and economic needs, establishing training priorities, qualification and accreditation, advising on allocation of resources and making recommendations as regards regulations respecting technical and vocational education and training. The Committee would be grateful if the Government could supply in its next report information on the activities undertaken or planned by the TVEC which have a bearing on the application of the Convention. In this connection, it also wishes to draw the Government’s attention to its comments made under the Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111).

2. The Committee notes that, in the context of the Public Service Administrative Reform Programme (which is being managed by the Establishment, Personnel and Training Department), use is being made of a job evaluation manual which includes an analytical methodology based on objective criteria and that a tripartite committee is responsible for the implementation of the job evaluation. As it would appear that the application of the Convention to the public service would be applied through the use of the job evaluation, the Government is requested to supply a copy of the manual and information on its application.

3. Referring to its previous comments concerning the application of section 24 of the Labour Standards Act of 1977 (prohibiting differences in wages between male and female workers employed in the same business who are performing, under the same working conditions, the same or similar work or jobs requiring similar skill, effort and responsibility), the Committee requests the Government to indicate how the principle of equal remuneration between men and women for work of equal value is applied in practice. The Committee would also be grateful if the Government would supply information on any other measures taken or contemplated to promote and facilitate the application of the provisions of the Convention. Such measures could include public information and awareness-raising campaigns promoting the principles of the Convention or initiatives taken by the Government, in cooperation with organizations of employers and workers, to promote, in general, equality of opportunity and treatment between men and women in employment.

4. The Committee refers to its general observation of 1998 and hopes that the Government will provide sufficient information to enable the Committee to assess the implementation of the Convention in practice.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2000, published 89th ILC session (2001)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which reads as follows:

1.  The Committee notes the adoption of the Education Act No. 11 of 1997 and in particular its provisions (Part VI) concerning the establishment and the functions of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Council (TVEC). The TVEC is, among others, responsible for preparing plans for technical and vocational education and training in accordance with national policies and economic needs, establishing training priorities, qualification and accreditation, advising on allocation of resources and making recommendations as regards regulations respecting technical and vocational education and training. The Committee would be grateful if the Government could supply in its next report information on the activities undertaken or planned by the TVEC which have a bearing on the application of the Convention. In this connection, it also wishes to draw the Government’s attention to its comments made under the Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111).

2.  Noting, however, that the report provides no reply to previous comments, the Committee hopes that the next report will include full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1.  The Committee notes that, in the context of the Public Service Administrative Reform Programme (which is being managed by the Establishment, Personnel and Training Department), use is being made of a job evaluation manual which includes an analytical methodology based on objective criteria and that a tripartite committee is responsible for the implementation of the job evaluation. As it would appear that the application of the Convention to the public service would be applied through the use of the job evaluation, the Government is requested to supply a copy of the manual and information on its application.

2.  Referring to its previous comments concerning the application of section 24 of the Labour Standards Act of 1977 (prohibiting differences in wages between male and female workers employed in the same business who are performing, under the same working conditions, the same or similar work or jobs requiring similar skill, effort and responsibility), the Committee requests the Government to indicate how the principle of equal remuneration between men and women for work of equal value is applied in practice. The Committee would also be grateful if the Government would supply information on any other measures taken or contemplated to promote and facilitate the application of the provisions of the Convention. Such measures could include public information and awareness-raising campaigns promoting the principles of the Convention or initiatives taken by the Government, in cooperation with organizations of employers and workers, to promote, in general, equality of opportunity and treatment between men and women in employment.

3.  The Committee refers to its general observation of 1998 and hopes that the Government will provide sufficient information to enable the Committee to assess the implementation of the Convention in practice.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1999, published 88th ILC session (2000)

The Committee notes the information contained in the Government's report.

1. The Committee notes the adoption of the Education Act No. 11 of 1997 and in particular its provisions (Part VI) concerning the establishment and the functions of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Council (TVEC). The TVEC is, among others, responsible for preparing plans for technical and vocational education and training in accordance with national policies and economic needs, establishing training priorities, qualification and accreditation, advising on allocation of resources and making recommendations as regards regulations respecting technical and vocational education and training. The Committee would be grateful if the Government could supply in its next report information on the activities undertaken or planned by the TVEC which have a bearing on the application of the Convention. In this connection, it also wishes to draw the Government's attention to its comments made under the Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111).

2. Noting, however, that the report provides no reply to previous comments, the Committee hopes that the next report will include full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes that, in the context of the Public Service Administrative Reform Programme (which is being managed by the Establishment, Personnel and Training Department), use is being made of a job evaluation manual which includes an analytical methodology based on objective criteria and that a tripartite committee is responsible for the implementation of the job evaluation. As it would appear that the application of the Convention to the public service would be applied through the use of the job evaluation, the Government is requested to supply a copy of the manual and information on its application.

2. Referring to its previous comments concerning the application of section 24 of the Labour Standards Act of 1977 (prohibiting differences in wages between male and female workers employed in the same business who are performing, under the same working conditions, the same or similar work or jobs requiring similar skill, effort and responsibility), the Committee requests the Government to indicate how the principle of equal remuneration between men and women for work of equal value is applied in practice. The Committee would also be grateful if the Government would supply information on any other measures taken or contemplated to promote and facilitate the application of the provisions of the Convention. Such measures could include public information and awareness-raising campaigns promoting the principles of the Convention or initiatives taken by the Government, in cooperation with organizations of employers and workers, to promote, in general, equality of opportunity and treatment between men and women in employment.

3. The Committee refers to its general observation of 1998 and hopes that the Government will provide sufficient information to enable the Committee to assess the implementation of the Convention in practice.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1998, published 87th ILC session (1999)

1. While noting that the report of the Government has not been received, the Committee notes from the Government's report on Convention No. 111 that the Committee's previous comments and recommendations on Convention No. 100 have been sent to the Honourable Attorney-General on Legal Affairs for consideration.

2. The Committee notes that, in the context of the Public Service Administrative Reform Programme (which is being managed by the Establishment, Personnel and Training Department), use is being made of a job evaluation manual which includes an analytical methodology based on objective criteria and that a tripartite committee is responsible for the implementation of the job evaluation. As it would appear that the application of the Convention to the public service would be applied through the use of the job evaluation, the Government is requested to supply a copy of the manual and information on its application.

3. Referring to its previous comments concerning the application of section 24 of the Labour Standards Act of 1977 (prohibiting differences in wages between male and female workers employed in the same business who are performing, under the same working conditions, the same or similar work or jobs requiring similar skill, effort and responsibility), the Committee requests the Government to indicate how the principle of equal remuneration between men and women for work of equal value is applied in practice. The Committee would also be grateful if the Government would supply information on any other measures taken or contemplated to promote and facilitate the application of the provisions of the Convention. Such measures could include public information and awareness-raising campaigns promoting the principles of the Convention or initiatives taken by the Government, in cooperation with organizations of employers and workers, to promote, in general, equality of opportunity and treatment between men and women in employment.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1996, published 85th ILC session (1997)

The Committee notes the information contained in the Government's reports and the attached classifications and salary scales applying in the public service.

1. The Committee notes that, in the context of the Public Service Administrative Reform Programme (which is being managed by the Establishment, Personnel and Training Department), use is being made of a job evaluation manual which aims at applying the principle of the Convention. Please forward information on any measures taken in the course of the present reform that are pertinent to the application of the Convention. The Committee would also be grateful if the Government could forward a copy of the most recent Minimum Wage Proclamation, which was unfortunately not received with the report.

2. In its previous comment, the Committee noted that an ILO mission to the country was scheduled for 1996 with a view, among other things, to assisting the Government in responding to a number of points raised by the Committee. The Committee looks forward to receiving information on the technical assistance provided and hopes that the Government's next report will contain full information on the application of the Convention, in accordance with the report form approved by the Governing Body.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1995, published 83rd ILC session (1996)

1. The Committee notes that the Government's report calls on the technical assistance of the Office in the current job evaluation exercise being undertaken by the Personnel Services Branch of the Establishment Division in the Office of the Prime Minister. Aware that plans for a mission to the country for this specific purpose have been postponed due to recent severe hurricane damage, the Committee trusts that a visit to the country will go ahead early in 1996 and that it will be able to assist the Government in answering all the points raised in its previous direct request. The Committee recalls that these points concerned: the scope of the term "wages" used in the Labour Standards Act, 1977; Article 2, paragraph 1, and Article 3, paragraph 3, of the Convention; as well as points III, IV and V of the report form requesting information on the application in practice of the principle of equal remuneration for work of equal value.

2. The Committee looks forward to receiving information in the Government's next report on the ILO's technical assistance, and the results that it may have given rise to with particular reference to the public service job evaluation exercise.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1995, published 82nd ILC session (1995)

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. Article 3, paragraphs 1 and 2, of the Convention. The Committee notes that the Government replies to the inquiry concerning the setting of wages rates - in particular those which are higher than the minimum rate established by proclamation under section 5(1) of the Labour Standards Act - by referring to the job evaluation exercise currently undertaken by the Personnel Services of the Establishment Division in the Office of the Prime Minister. In particular, the Committee notes the Government's statement that this exercise will take into consideration the notion of equal pay for work of equal value. It welcomes the Government's indication that technical assistance in this exercise would be appreciated.

Aware that the Office is already providing technical assistance in the field of general legislative reform, the Committee observes that the Office is contacting the Government with a view to providing advice on this aspect of the Convention. It trusts that the Government will keep it informed of developments in this technical assistance aimed at giving effect to Article 3 of the Convention.

2. Article 1(a). The Committee notes that the Government does not reply to its query regarding the scope of the term "wages" used in section 24 of the Labour Standards Act, 1977. Referring to paragraphs 14 and 15 of its 1986 General Survey on Equal Remuneration, it therefore again requests the Government for this information.

3. Article 2, paragraph 1. The Committee notes that the Government's response regarding the discrepancy between the provisions of section 24 of the 1977 Act (prohibiting differences in wages between male and female workers employed in the same business who are performing, under the same working conditions, the same or similar work or jobs requiring similar skill, effort and responsibility) and the principle of work "of equal value" set out in the Convention is limited to supplying a copy of a government memorandum dated July 1992. This memorandum ensures that one rate for hourly pay is to be applied equally to men and women cleaners and other workers in the unskilled category. This eliminated a previous differential based solely on the sex of the workers. While welcoming this measure, the Committee would refer the Government to paragraphs 20 to 23 and 52 to 70 of the above-mentioned General Survey, where it is explained that the principle of the Convention goes beyond a reference to the "same" or "similar work" in choosing the value of the work as the comparison point. The Committee thus asks the Government to indicate in its next report how the Convention is applied when men and women carry out jobs in different businesses or of a different nature, but of the same value. Please also indicate how this principle is applied to other categories of workers.

4. Article 3, paragraph 3. In the absence of a reply, the Committee repeats its request to the Government to supply information on the intent and practical application of section 25 of the 1977 Act, according to which payment to male and female employees of different wages does not constitute a violation of section 24 of that Act if the difference is based on any other factor or factors than sex that justify such a difference.

5. Points III, IV and V of the report form. Following on its previous requests for information on the application in practice of the principle of equal remuneration for work of equal value, the Committee again asks the Government to provide information on any relevant decisions of the Industrial Relations Tribunal and on the work of the Labour Division. For instance, have there been any meetings and seminars to promote the principle? Please supply copies of any collective agreements concluded in sectors that employ a large proportion of women workers.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1994, published 81st ILC session (1994)

1. Article 3, paragraphs 1 and 2, of the Convention. The Committee notes that the Government replies to the inquiry concerning the setting of wages rates - in particular those which are higher than the minimum rate established by proclamation under section 5(1) of the Labour Standards Act - by referring to the job evaluation exercise currently undertaken by the Personnel Services of the Establishment Division in the Office of the Prime Minister. In particular, the Committee notes the Government's statement that this exercise will take into consideration the notion of equal pay for work of equal value. It welcomes the Government's indication that technical assistance in this exercise would be appreciated.

Aware that the Office is already providing technical assistance in the field of general legislative reform, the Committee observes that the Office is contacting the Government with a view to providing advice on this aspect of the Convention. It trusts that the Government will keep it informed of developments in this technical assistance aimed at giving effect to Article 3 of the Convention.

2. Article 1(a). The Committee notes that the Government does not reply to its query regarding the scope of the term "wages" used in section 24 of the Labour Standards Act, 1977. Referring to paragraphs 14 and 15 of its 1986 General Survey on Equal Remuneration, it therefore again requests the Government for this information.

3. Article 2, paragraph 1. The Committee notes that the Government's response regarding the discrepancy between the provisions of section 24 of the 1977 Act (prohibiting differences in wages between male and female workers employed in the same business who are performing, under the same working conditions, the same or similar work or jobs requiring similar skill, effort and responsibility) and the principle of work "of equal value" set out in the Convention is limited to supplying a copy of a government memorandum dated July 1992. This memorandum ensures that one rate for hourly pay is to be applied equally to men and women cleaners and other workers in the unskilled category. This eliminated a previous differential based solely on the sex of the workers. While welcoming this measure, the Committee would refer the Government to paragraphs 20 to 23 and 52 to 70 of the above-mentioned General Survey, where it is explained that the principle of the Convention goes beyond a reference to the "same" or "similar work" in choosing the value of the work as the comparison point. The Committee thus asks the Government to indicate in its next report how the Convention is applied when men and women carry out jobs in different businesses or of a different nature, but of the same value. Please also indicate how this principle is applied to other categories of workers.

4. Article 3, paragraph 3. In the absence of a reply, the Committee repeats its request to the Government to supply information on the intent and practical application of section 25 of the 1977 Act, according to which payment to male and female employees of different wages does not constitute a violation of section 24 of that Act if the difference is based on any other factor or factors than sex that justify such a difference.

5. Points III, IV and V of the report form. Following on its previous requests for information on the application in practice of the principle of equal remuneration for work of equal value, the Committee again asks the Government to provide information on any relevant decisions of the Industrial Relations Tribunal and on the work of the Labour Division. For instance, have there been any meetings and seminars to promote the principle? Please supply copies of any collective agreements concluded in sectors that employ a large proportion of women workers.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1993, published 80th ILC session (1993)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes that section 24 of the Labour Standards Act, 1977, prohibits differences in wages between male and female workers employed in the same business who are performing, under the same working conditions, the same or similar work or jobs requiring similar skill, effort and responsibility. The Committee, referring to Article 1(a) of the Convention and to paragraphs 14 and 15 of its 1986 General Survey on Equal Remuneration, requests the Government to indicate the scope of the term "wages" in section 24 of the Labour Standards Act. The Committee also points out that under the Convention, equal remuneration for men and women workers is to be established for work of equal value. Thus the principle of the Convention goes beyond a reference to the "same" or "similar work" in choosing the value of the work as the comparison point. The Committee therefore requests the Government to indicate how the Convention's principle of equal remuneration "for work of equal value" is ensured when men and women workers carry out jobs of a different nature, but of the same value. Please refer in this connection to the explanations in paragraphs 20 to 23 and 52 to 70 of the above-mentioned General Survey.

2. The Committee notes that wage rates are determined by collective agreements and through a tripartite advisory committee. It also notes that minimum wage rates may be established by proclamation under section 5(1) of the Labour Standards Act. It requests the Government to indicate how wage rates - and in particular those which are higher than the minimum rate - are fixed for workers in the public and the private sectors, and to provide detailed information on the methods used, in the process of fixing wages, for an objective appraisal of jobs on the basis of work performed, as provided for by Article 3, paragraphs 1 and 2, of the Convention.

3. The Committee notes that under section 25 of the Labour Standards Act payment to male and female employees of different wages does not constitute a violation of section 24 of the same act if the difference is based on any other factor or factors than sex that justify such a difference. The Committee requests the Government to supply information on the intent and practical application of section 25.

4. The Committee notes the Government's statement that the principle of equal remuneration for work of equal value is applied by collective agreements and by the Industrial Relations Tribunal and that the Labour Division promotes the application of the principle through routine consultations, inspections, meetings and seminars. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the practice of the Industrial Relations Tribunal in the field of equal remuneration for work of equal value; to provide copies of collective agreements, in particular of agreements concluded in sectors that occupy a large proportion of women workers; and to provide information on the progress achieved in the promotion of the principle by the Labour Division.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1992, published 79th ILC session (1992)

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the information supplied by the Government in its first two reports following the ratification of the Convention.

1. The Committee notes that section 24 of the Labour Standards Act, 1977, prohibits differences in wages between male and female workers employed in the same business who are performing, under the same working conditions, the same or similar work or jobs requiring similar skill, effort and responsibility. The Committee, referring to Article 1(a) of the Convention and to paragraphs 14 and 15 of its 1986 General Survey on Equal Remuneration, requests the Government to indicate the scope of the term "wages" in section 24 of the Labour Standards Act. The Committee also points out that under the Convention, equal remuneration for men and women workers is to be established for work of equal value. Thus the principle of the Convention goes beyond a reference to the "same" or "similar work" in choosing the value of the work as the comparison point. The Committee therefore requests the Government to indicate how the Convention's principle of equal remuneration "for work of equal value" is ensured when men and women workers carry out jobs of a different nature, but of the same value. Please refer in this connection to the explanations in paragraphs 20 to 23 and 52 to 70 of the above-mentioned General Survey.

2. The Committee notes that wage rates are determined by collective agreements and through a tripartite advisory committee. It also notes that minimum wage rates may be established by proclamation under section 5(1) of the Labour Standards Act. It requests the Government to indicate how wage rates - and in particular those which are higher than the minimum rate - are fixed for workers in the public and the private sectors, and to provide detailed information on the methods used, in the process of fixing wages, for an objective appraisal of jobs on the basis of work performed, as provided for by Article 3, paragraphs 1 and 2, of the Convention.

3. The Committee notes that under section 25 of the Labour Standards Act payment to male and female employees of different wages does not constitute a violation of section 24 of the same act if the difference is based on any other factor or factors than sex that justify such a difference. The Committee requests the Government to supply information on the intent and practical application of section 25.

4. The Committee notes the Government's statement that the principle of equal remuneration for work of equal value is applied by collective agreements and by the Industrial Relations Tribunal and that the Labour Division promotes the application of the principle through routine consultations, inspections, meetings and seminars. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the practice of the Industrial Relations Tribunal in the field of equal remuneration for work of equal value; to provide copies of collective agreements, in particular of agreements concluded in sectors that occupy a large proportion of women workers; and to provide information on the progress achieved in the promotion of the principle by the Labour Division.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1990, published 77th ILC session (1990)

The Committee notes the information supplied by the Government in its first two reports following the ratification of the Convention.

1. The Committee notes that section 24 of the Labour Standards Act, 1977, prohibits differences in wages between male and female workers employed in the same business who are performing, under the same working conditions, the same or similar work or jobs requiring similar skill, effort and responsibility. The Committee, referring to Article 1(a) of the Convention and to paragraphs 14 and 15 of its 1986 General Survey on Equal Remuneration, requests the Government to indicate the scope of the term "wages" in section 24 of the Labour Standards Act. The Committee also points out that under the Convention, equal remuneration for men and women workers is to be established for work of equal value. Thus the principle of the Convention goes beyond a reference to the "same" or "similar work" in choosing the value of the work as the comparison point. The Committee therefore requests the Government to indicate how the Convention's principle of equal remuneration "for work of equal value" is ensured when men and women workers carry out jobs of a different nature, but of the same value. Please refer in this connection to the explanations in paragraphs 20 to 23 and 52 to 70 of the above-mentioned General Survey.

2. The Committee notes that wage rates are determined by collective agreements and through a tripartite advisory committee. It also notes that minimum wage rates may be established by proclamation under section 5(1) of the Labour Standards Act. It requests the Government to indicate how wage rates - and in particular those which are higher than the minimum rate - are fixed for workers in the public and the private sectors, and to provide detailed information on the methods used, in the process of fixing wages, for an objective appraisal of jobs on the basis of work performed, as provided for by Article 3, paragraphs 1 and 2, of the Convention.

3. The Committee notes that under section 25 of the Labour Standards Act payment to male and female employees of different wages does not constitute a violation of section 24 of the same act if the difference is based on any other factor or factors than sex that justify such a difference. The Committee requests the Government to supply information on the intent and practical application of section 25.

4. The Committee notes the Government's statement that the principle of equal remuneration for work of equal value is applied by collective agreements and by the Industrial Relations Tribunal and that the Labour Division promotes the application of the principle through routine consultations, inspections, meetings and seminars. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the practice of the Industrial Relations Tribunal in the field of equal remuneration for work of equal value; to provide copies of collective agreements, in particular of agreements concluded in sectors that occupy a large proportion of women workers; and to provide information on the progress achieved in the promotion of the principle by the Labour Division.