Leaders of the National Garment Workers Federation (NGWF) have put forward ten demands, including a ration system for all garments workers, job security and wages by first week of every month as per labour law.

The demands were presented at a roundtable discussion titled “Social Safety for garment workers” held at Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) in the capital on Tuesday.

The demands also included six month maternity leave for women garment workers, paternity leave, child care centre at every factory, redefinition of workers in labour law, launching provident fund for garment workers, ensuring safe working place, and equal wages and rights for women workers.

NGWF President Amirul Haque Amin presided over the function while its General Secretary Rafiqul Islam moderated the session.

Amirul said their all demands are implementable. “The garment workers are driving forces of the country’s economic wheels so these issues should be considered for the sake of workers,” he also said.

Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) Executive President Fazlee Shamim Ehsan emphasised unity and cooperation among company owners and workers for sustainable development of the industry.

Deputy Inspector General of Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments (DIFE) AKM Salauddin commented that workers will be more benefited if provident system is launched in each company. He also warned workers would be loser if any firm is shut down.