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Mid-day break rule for workers to continue

DUBAI — The UAE government will continue implementing the mid-day break rule for construction workers this year with tougher penalties for companies flouting rules, Labour Minister Dr Ali bin Abdullah Al Kaabi said yesterday.

Like in previous years, the rule will come into effect from July 1 to August 30, from 12.30pm to 3pm, Dr Al Kaabi told Khaleej Times after a press briefing he attended along with Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi in Dubai .

"This year, the penalties for the violating companies will be tougher compared with last year if violation of laws is detected more than once," he said

As per the Cabinet decision in 2005, companies found violating the law for the first time will be slapped with a fine of Dh10,000, and its applications for new labour permits will be suspended for three months.

Second time violators will have to pay a fine of Dh20,000 and their labour permit applications will be suspended for six months. If companies are found violating the law for the third time, a fine of Dh30,000 will be imposed and the company will not be able to issue new labour permits for a year.

Meanwhile, labourers welcomed the mid-day break rule.

Jismon, working in a construction company in Al Quoz, said the rule would help them to relax during the heat of the day. "We find it hard to work at noon in the open. I am happy about this rule."

Mohan Kumar, a worker in Sharjah, said, "It shows that the government is concerned about us. I think this is helpful for all labourers."

• UAE