The government has announced proposed changes to the minimum wage and conditions of employment for workers in the Textile and Apparel Industry.
The proposal has been issued for public comment in terms of Section 11 of the Wages Act, No. 16 of 1964, with stakeholders given 30 days to submit written representations.
The public notice states: “Notice is hereby given in terms of Section 11 of the Wages Act, No. 16 of 1964 that we intend to submit to the Minister a Wages Regulation Proposal as to the minimum wage which should be paid and the conditions of employment which should be applied to all or any of the employees in relation to the industry or trade below, namely: Textile and Apparel Industry. 
The proposed regulations will therefore deal with the minimum wage payable to employees in the sector, as well as the conditions of employment applicable to them.
Copies of the proposals can be obtained from the Office of the Commissioner of Labour in Mbabane, Office No. 311, and from all regional offices of the Department of Labour.
Workers, employers and other interested parties who wish to comment on the proposals have been invited to make written submissions during the consultation period.
“Written representation with respect to the proposals may be sent to the Commissioner of Labour, Mbabane, Office No. 311 or email to thuligama53@gmail.com within Thirty (30) days from the date of publication of this Notice,” the notice reads.
The proposed changes come as the government moves to review the wage and employment framework governing workers in the textile and apparel sector.
The 30-day period allows affected parties to examine the proposed regulations and raise any concerns or suggestions before the proposals are submitted to the minister.
Stakeholders who wish to participate in the process can access the full proposal at the Labour Office in Mbabane or any regional Labour Department office.
