Labour Inspection Convention, 1947 (No. 81) - Sao Tome and Principe (Ratification: 1982)

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

Article 3 of the Convention. Functions of the system of the labour inspection. The Committee notes that, according to section 5 of the Statute of the General Labour Inspectorate (Inspeccao Geral do Trabalho, hereafter IGT Statute) adopted in 2016, the labour inspectors perform activities in the field of working conditions, occupational safety and health (OSH), as well as job placement, migration and work of foreigners and social security. The Committee requests the Government to provide further detailed information on how the tasks regarding migration and work of foreigners and social security are performed by labour inspectors in practice, including the proportion of time and resources attributed, in order to ensure that it does not interfere with the effective discharge of their primary duties, and does not prejudice in any way the authority and impartiality which are necessary in inspectors’ relations with employers and workers.

Article 5(a). Cooperation between the labour inspection system and the judicial system. Following its previous comments, the Committee notes that, according to section 34(2) of the IGT Statute, the IGT shall collaborate with the Courts and the Public Prosecution Office under the terms established in the Code of Criminal Procedure. The Committee also notes the Government’s indication in its report that violations of the law are constantly referred to the Public Prosecution Office, however, the feedback from the prosecutors regarding outcomes of the process never reaches the IGT. Recalling that Article 5(a) requires appropriate arrangements to promote effective cooperation between the inspection services and other Government services, the Committee requests the Government to provide information on any measures taken or envisaged to improve the collaboration between the labour inspection system and the judicial system, in particular regarding the feedback from the prosecutors on the processing of the cases transmitted to them by labour inspectors; and also requests information on the outcomes of cases referred to Public Prosecution Office, including specific violations found and sanctions imposed.

Article 6. Conditions of services. The Committee notes that, according to section 52(1) of the IGT Statute, the Ministers who oversee the areas of Finance and Labour shall approve, in a separate statute, the careers and the specific remuneration scale for IGT personnel. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether the statute provided for by section 52(1) of the IGT Statute has been adopted, and once again requests the Government to provide information on the career scheme and remuneration scale for IGT personnel, compared to public officers exercising similar functions, such as tax inspectors.

Article 7. Recruitment conditions and training. Following its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that three inspectors have undergone higher education and two sub-inspectors have received professional training. Moreover, in light of the actions foreseen in the Decent Work Country Programme 2018-2021, internal and external trainings were organised in exchange with the Authority for Working Conditions of Portugal on OSH for the technicians of the IGT. The Committee also notes that, according to section 38(1) of the IGT Statute, the selection process of labour inspectors involves paid professional traineeship, under the terms of Decree No. 6/2010. The Committee requests the Government to continue to provide information on the measures taken to provide adequate training to labour inspectors, including the frequency and contents of the trainings and the attendance at each such training, so as to enable inspectors to perform their duties effectively and independently. It also requests the Government to provide information on the organisation of the paid professional traineeship in the recruitment process and to provide a copy of Decree No. 6/2010.

Articles 10 and 11. Human and material resources available to the labour inspection services. The Committee previously noted the limited number of inspectors and a shortage of financial resources. The Government indicates that the IGT currently consists of one General Inspector, four inspectors, four sub-inspectors and three inspection technicians. It states that no measures have been taken to ensure a sufficient number of labour inspectors due to its limited resources. The Government also indicates that there is one vehicle available for inspectors, and that travel expenses are reimbursed. However, it notes that there is a lack of personal protection equipment and communication devices. Noting the constraints on the resources available, the Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures adopted to ensure a sufficient number of inspectors to secure the effective discharge of the duties of the inspectorate. It also requests the Government to make the necessary arrangements to provide labour inspectors with suitable personal protection equipment and communication devices in accordance with the requirements of the service. Finally, it requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this regard.

Article 14. Notification of industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that section 441 of the Labour Code of 2019 requires employers to register and declare accidents and occupational diseases to the competent authorities but does not indicate a deadline for this notification. The Committee also notes the Government’s indication that section 45 of the IGT Statute establishes a time limit of 48 hours for the employer to communicate work related accidents and occupational diseases to the IGT. In addition, section 46 of the IGT Statute provides that companies shall collect, organize and communicate to the IGT quarterly data concerning diagnosed occupational illnesses and work-related accidents that result in the inactivity of the injured person for a period exceeding one working day. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures adopted to improve the detection and identification of cases of occupational diseases as well as their notification to the labour inspectorate. It also requests the Government to provide information on the application of this provision in practice and to include the representative statistics on cases of occupational disease and work-related accidents in its annual labour inspection report.

Articles 20 and 21. Reports on labour inspection activities. The Committee previously noted that no annual labour inspection reports had been received by the ILO. The Committee notes the Government’s indication in response that the requests of the Committee had been sent to the IGT and that in the medium term the reports are expected to be received and published as required by the Convention. The Committee also notes that sections 6 and 7 of the IGT Statute provide for the preparation of quarterly and annual reports. The Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that an annual inspection report is developed in the near future, containing full information on the activities of the labour inspection services required by Article 21: (a) laws and regulations relevant to the work of the inspection service; (b) staff of the labour inspection service; (c) statistics of workplaces liable to inspection and the number of workers employed therein; (d) statistics of inspection visits; (e) statistics of violations and penalties imposed; (f) statistics of industrial accidents; and (g) statistics of occupational diseases.

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

The Committee notes with concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Legislation. Labour Code of 2019. The Committee notes the new Labour Code adopted in 2019. It also notes the information provided by the Government concerning the organization of the Ministry of Employment and Social Affairs, as well as a reference to the Statute concerning the labour inspectorate. In this respect, the Committee notes the adoption of the General Labour Inspection Statute, by virtue of Decree-Law No. 7/2016.

Articles 4, 7, 10 and 11 of the Convention. Structure of the labour inspection system. Human and material resources available to the labour inspection services. Adequate training of labour inspectors. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government, in reply to its previous comments, that the labour inspectorate is an integral part of the Ministry of Employment and Social Affairs, which comprises the General Inspector, the Technical Guidance Section, the Industrial Accidents Section, the Working Conditions Inspection (WCI) Department, and the Occupational Safety, Hygiene and Health (OSH) Department. It notes that the WCI Department has one department coordinator, four technicians and two inspectors, and that the OSH Department has one department coordinator, four technicians, and one inspector. It also notes the information provided by the Government concerning means of transportation and office equipment. However, the Committee notes with concern the Government’s indication that inspectors’ lack of technical expertise and a shortage of financial resources hinder the work of labour inspectors. At the same time, the Committee notes that the 2018–21 Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP) identifies enhancing the capacities of labour inspection services as a key strategy to strengthening OSH and workplace compliance. Noting the limited number of inspectors, the Committee requests the Government to continue to provide information on the measures taken to ensure a sufficient number of labour inspectors to secure the effective discharge of the duties of the inspectorate, as required under Article 10 of the Convention. It also requests the Government to provide detailed information on the measures taken to provide adequate training to labour inspectors, so as to enable inspectors to perform their duties effectively and independently, including in the framework of the DWCP 2018–21. It requests in this respect information on the subject matter of training provided as well as the frequency, attendance and impact of such training. In the absence of information on the measures taken to give effect to Article 11(2) of the Convention, the Committee asks the Government to describe the procedure applicable for the reimbursement to labour inspectors of the transport and travel expenses incurred in the course of their duties.

Articles 5(a) and 21(e). Cooperation between the labour inspection system and the judicial system. The Committee notes the Government’s reference, in reply to its previous request, to a partnership between the labour inspectorate and the judicial system, which has already been envisaged by law. The Government indicates that the partnership aims to complement the inspectorate’s work and speed up the judicial proceedings. The Committee requests the Government to provide a copy of the legislation which envisages this partnership. It also asks the Government to provide information on the measures taken under the partnership and the impact of these measures on the effectiveness of the labour inspectorate’s actions, including how the partnership contributes to expediting judicial proceedings.

Article 6. Conditions of service of labour inspectors. The Committee notes the Government’s indication in response to the Committee’s previous request concerning measures to increase the wages paid to labour inspectors, that there has been a significant improvement in this respect, recognizing the need to update labour inspectors’ benefits. The Committee requests the Government to provide further specific information on the measures taken to improve the conditions of service for labour inspectors, including a copy of the current legislative text governing the recruitment, status, conditions and service of labour inspectors as well as on their current wage scales compared to public officers exercising similar functions, such as tax inspectors.

Article 14. Information on industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease. The Committee previously requested the Government to provide information on the procedures introduced to ensure that the labour inspectorate is informed of industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease. The Committee notes with interest that section 441(1) of the new Labour Code of 2019 requires employers to declare accidents and occupational diseases to the competent authorities and register them. It also notes the Government’s indication in response that a protocol with hospitals and health clinics exists, and that the labour inspectorate has adopted a set of instructions to be followed in the event of an industrial accident. Referring to its comments on the Occupational Safety and Health Convention, 1981 (No. 155), the Committee takes note of this information.

Articles 19, 20 and 21. Reports on labour inspection activities. In its previous comments, the Committee noted that no annual labour inspection reports had been received by the ILO. The Committee welcomes the Government’s indication in response that improvements will be made in the near future to enable the labour inspectorate to develop statistical data for transmission to the ILO. The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to ensure that an annual inspection report is developed, containing full information on the activities of the labour inspection services required by Article 21: (a) laws and regulations relevant to the work of the inspection service; (b) staff of the labour inspection service; (c) statistics of workplaces liable to inspection and the number of workers employed therein; (d) statistics of inspection visits; (e) statistics of violations and penalties imposed; (f) statistics of industrial accidents; and (g) statistics of occupational diseases.

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

Legislation. Labour Code of 2019. The Committee notes the new Labour Code adopted in 2019. It also notes the information provided by the Government concerning the organization of the Ministry of Employment and Social Affairs, as well as a reference to the Statute concerning the labour inspectorate. In this respect, the Committee notes the adoption of the General Labour Inspection Statute, by virtue of Decree-Law No. 7/2016.

Articles 4, 7, 10 and 11 of the Convention. Structure of the labour inspection system. Human and material resources available to the labour inspection services. Adequate training of labour inspectors. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government, in reply to its previous comments, that the labour inspectorate is an integral part of the Ministry of Employment and Social Affairs, which comprises the General Inspector, the Technical Guidance Section, the Industrial Accidents Section, the Working Conditions Inspection (WCI) Department, and the Occupational Safety, Hygiene and Health (OSH) Department. It notes that the WCI Department has one department coordinator, four technicians and two inspectors, and that the OSH Department has one department coordinator, four technicians, and one inspector. It also notes the information provided by the Government concerning means of transportation and office equipment. However, the Committee notes with concern the Government’s indication that inspectors’ lack of technical expertise and a shortage of financial resources hinder the work of labour inspectors. At the same time, the Committee notes that the 2018–21 Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP) identifies enhancing the capacities of labour inspection services as a key strategy to strengthening OSH and workplace compliance. Noting the limited number of inspectors, the Committee requests the Government to continue to provide information on the measures taken to ensure a sufficient number of labour inspectors to secure the effective discharge of the duties of the inspectorate, as required under Article 10 of the Convention. It also requests the Government to provide detailed information on the measures taken to provide adequate training to labour inspectors, so as to enable inspectors to perform their duties effectively and independently, including in the framework of the DWCP 2018–21. It requests in this respect information on the subject matter of training provided as well as the frequency, attendance and impact of such training. In the absence of information on the measures taken to give effect to Article 11(2) of the Convention, the Committee asks the Government to describe the procedure applicable for the reimbursement to labour inspectors of the transport and travel expenses incurred in the course of their duties.

Articles 5(a) and 21(e). Cooperation between the labour inspection system and the judicial system. The Committee notes the Government’s reference, in reply to its previous request, to a partnership between the labour inspectorate and the judicial system, which has already been envisaged by law. The Government indicates that the partnership aims to complement the inspectorate’s work and speed up the judicial proceedings. The Committee requests the Government to provide a copy of the legislation which envisages this partnership. It also asks the Government to provide information on the measures taken under the partnership and the impact of these measures on the effectiveness of the labour inspectorate’s actions, including how the partnership contributes to expediting judicial proceedings.

Article 6. Conditions of service of labour inspectors. The Committee notes the Government’s indication in response to the Committee’s previous request concerning measures to increase the wages paid to labour inspectors, that there has been a significant improvement in this respect, recognizing the need to update labour inspectors’ benefits. The Committee requests the Government to provide further specific information on the measures taken to improve the conditions of service for labour inspectors, including a copy of the current legislative text governing the recruitment, status, conditions and service of labour inspectors as well as on their current wage scales compared to public officers exercising similar functions, such as tax inspectors.

Article 14. Information on industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease. The Committee previously requested the Government to provide information on the procedures introduced to ensure that the labour inspectorate is informed of industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease. The Committee notes with interest that section 441(1) of the new Labour Code of 2019 requires employers to declare accidents and occupational diseases to the competent authorities and register them. It also notes the Government’s indication in response that a protocol with hospitals and health clinics exists, and that the labour inspectorate has adopted a set of instructions to be followed in the event of an industrial accident. Referring to its comments on the Occupational Safety and Health Convention, 1981 (No. 155), the Committee takes note of this information.

Articles 19, 20 and 21. Reports on labour inspection activities. In its previous comments, the Committee noted that no annual labour inspection reports had been received by the ILO. The Committee welcomes the Government’s indication in response that improvements will be made in the near future to enable the labour inspectorate to develop statistical data for transmission to the ILO. The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to ensure that an annual inspection report is developed, containing full information on the activities of the labour inspection services required by Article 21: (a) laws and regulations relevant to the work of the inspection service; (b) staff of the labour inspection service; (c) statistics of workplaces liable to inspection and the number of workers employed therein; (d) statistics of inspection visits; (e) statistics of violations and penalties imposed; (f) statistics of industrial accidents; and (g) statistics of occupational diseases.

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

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

With reference to its observation, the Committee would like to raise the following additional points.

Articles 4, 10 and 11 of the Convention. Structure of the labour inspection system and human and material resources available to the labour inspection services. The Committee notes that the Government has not provided in its last report information on the progress made with the restructuring of the Ministry of Labour to make the labour inspectorate more dynamic, which the Government had announced in its 2007 report. While the Government indicates that there are currently five labour inspectors and three deputy labour inspectors entrusted with functions in the area of occupational safety and health (OSH), it does not provide the requested information on the conditions of work of labour inspectors (office facilities and equipment, etc.). The Committee asks the Government to provide information on the current structure of the labour inspection system, including any relevant texts, and, if applicable, information concerning the impact on the effectiveness of the action of the labour inspectorate following the restructuring of the labour inspection services.

It asks the Government to clarify whether there are labour inspectors entrusted with other functions than those relating to OSH (general working conditions, including child labour, etc.), or whether the five labour inspectors and three deputy labour inspectors mentioned by the Government are the only inspection staff employed at the labour inspectorate.

Please also provide detailed information on the office equipment available to the labour inspection services (number of offices, computers, printers, paper, inspection forms, etc.), as well as on the transport facilities available and/or reimbursement of travel expenses incurred in the performance of the duties of labour inspectors.

Articles 5(a) and 21(e) of the Convention. Cooperation between the labour inspection system and the judicial system. The Committee notes the Government’s reference to a meeting in 2011 between representatives of the labour inspectorate and the public prosecutor’s office (in the office of the Attorney-General of the country) to discuss possible means of cooperation. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged with a view to strengthening cooperation between the labour inspection services and the judicial system (for example by the creation of a system for the registration of judicial decisions accessible to the labour inspectorate and the judicial system) and its impact on the effectiveness of the action of the labour inspectorate, with a view to the application of the legal provisions relating to conditions of work and the protection of workers while engaged in their work.

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

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comments.

Repetition

Article 6 of the Convention. Conditions of service of labour inspectors. The Committee notes that the Government has not provided in its last report further information on the plans to revise wages and reform professional careers, which the Government had announced in its 2007 report. Noting that the Committee has been raising the issue of improving salaries of labour inspectors since 2002, it would like to refer to paragraph 209 of its 2006 General Survey on labour inspection, where it is indicated that, although the Committee is aware of the severe budgetary restrictions governments often face, it is bound to emphasize the importance it places on the treatment of labour inspectors in a way that reflects the importance and specificities of their duties and that takes account of personal merit. The Committee once again expresses the hope that the Government will put in place measures to increase the wages paid to labour inspectors so as to attract and retain qualified personnel and safeguard such personnel from any undue influence. The Committee asks the Government to report on any measures taken or envisaged in this regard in its next report.

Article 14. Information on industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease. The Committee notes that the Government has not provided the requested information concerning the measures taken to ensure that the labour inspectorate is informed of industrial accidents and cases of occupational diseases, following the commitment made by the Government in its 2007 report to undertake every possible effort in this regard. The Committee once again asks the Government to provide in its next report information on the procedures introduced and the specific measures taken to ensure that the labour inspectorate is informed of industrial accidents and cases of occupational diseases.

Articles 19, 20 and 21. Reports on labour inspection activities. The Committee notes that no annual report on the work of the labour inspection services has been received by the Office. It further notes that the last statistical information on labour inspection visits (including information on recurrent violations) relates to the periods of 1985–87 and 1988–89, respectively, and that no annual report on the work of the labour inspection services within the meaning of the Convention containing information on all the subjects listed under Article 21 has ever been received by the Office. The Committee emphasized, in its general observation made in 2010 that, when well prepared, the annual report offers an indispensable basis for the evaluation of the results in practice of the activities of the labour inspection services and, subsequently, the determination of the means necessary to improve their effectiveness. The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to ensure that an annual inspection report is published and sent to the ILO, within the time limits set out in Article 20 containing the information required by Article 21(a)–(g).

The Committee asks the Government in any event to provide with its next report statistical information that is as detailed as possible (industrial and commercial places liable to inspection, number of inspections, violations detected and penalties imposed, statistics of industrial accidents and cases of occupational diseases, etc.). Noting the information provided by the Government, that inspection reports are drawn up following every inspection visit, the Committee believes that the central authority should be in a position to provide the majority of this information, and at least information on the number of inspection visits, the violations detected and legal provisions to which they relate, as well as on any follow-up measures taken.

The Committee reminds the Government that it may avail itself of ILO assistance in order to ensure that the central inspection authority fulfils its obligations under Articles 20 and 21.

The Committee is raising other matters in a request addressed directly to the Government.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2013, published 103rd ILC session (2014)

With reference to its observation, the Committee would like to raise the following additional points.

Articles 4, 10 and 11 of the Convention. Structure of the labour inspection system and human and material resources available to the labour inspection services. The Committee notes that the Government has not provided in its last report information on the progress made with the restructuring of the Ministry of Labour to make the labour inspectorate more dynamic, which the Government had announced in its 2007 report. While the Government indicates that there are currently five labour inspectors and three deputy labour inspectors entrusted with functions in the area of occupational safety and health (OSH), it does not provide the requested information on the conditions of work of labour inspectors (office facilities and equipment, etc.). The Committee asks the Government to provide information on the current structure of the labour inspection system, including any relevant texts, and, if applicable, information concerning the impact on the effectiveness of the action of the labour inspectorate following the restructuring of the labour inspection services.

It asks the Government to clarify whether there are labour inspectors entrusted with other functions than those relating to OSH (general working conditions, including child labour, etc.), or whether the five labour inspectors and three deputy labour inspectors mentioned by the Government are the only inspection staff employed at the labour inspectorate.

Please also provide detailed information on the office equipment available to the labour inspection services (number of offices, computers, printers, paper, inspection forms, etc.), as well as on the transport facilities available and/or reimbursement of travel expenses incurred in the performance of the duties of labour inspectors.

Articles 5(a) and 21(e) of the Convention. Cooperation between the labour inspection system and the judicial system. The Committee notes the Government’s reference to a meeting in 2011 between representatives of the labour inspectorate and the public prosecutor’s office (in the office of the Attorney-General of the country) to discuss possible means of cooperation. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged with a view to strengthening cooperation between the labour inspection services and the judicial system (for example by the creation of a system for the registration of judicial decisions accessible to the labour inspectorate and the judicial system) and its impact on the effectiveness of the action of the labour inspectorate, with a view to the application of the legal provisions relating to conditions of work and the protection of workers while engaged in their work.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2013, published 103rd ILC session (2014)

Article 6 of the Convention. Conditions of service of labour inspectors. The Committee notes that the Government has not provided in its last report further information on the plans to revise wages and reform professional careers, which the Government had announced in its 2007 report. Noting that the Committee has been raising the issue of improving salaries of labour inspectors since 2002, it would like to refer to paragraph 209 of its 2006 General Survey on labour inspection, where it is indicated that, although the Committee is aware of the severe budgetary restrictions governments often face, it is bound to emphasize the importance it places on the treatment of labour inspectors in a way that reflects the importance and specificities of their duties and that takes account of personal merit. The Committee once again expresses the hope that the Government will put in place measures to increase the wages paid to labour inspectors so as to attract and retain qualified personnel and safeguard such personnel from any undue influence. The Committee asks the Government to report on any measures taken or envisaged in this regard in its next report.

Article 14. Information on industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease. The Committee notes that the Government has not provided the requested information concerning the measures taken to ensure that the labour inspectorate is informed of industrial accidents and cases of occupational diseases, following the commitment made by the Government in its 2007 report to undertake every possible effort in this regard. The Committee once again asks the Government to provide in its next report information on the procedures introduced and the specific measures taken to ensure that the labour inspectorate is informed of industrial accidents and cases of occupational diseases.

Articles 19, 20 and 21. Reports on labour inspection activities. The Committee notes that no annual report on the work of the labour inspection services has been received by the Office. It further notes that the last statistical information on labour inspection visits (including information on recurrent violations) relates to the periods of 1985–87 and 1988–89, respectively, and that no annual report on the work of the labour inspection services within the meaning of the Convention containing information on all the subjects listed under Article 21 has ever been received by the Office. The Committee emphasized, in its general observation made in 2010 that, when well prepared, the annual report offers an indispensable basis for the evaluation of the results in practice of the activities of the labour inspection services and, subsequently, the determination of the means necessary to improve their effectiveness. The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to ensure that an annual inspection report is published and sent to the ILO, within the time limits set out in Article 20 containing the information required by Article 21(a)–(g).

The Committee asks the Government in any event to provide with its next report statistical information that is as detailed as possible (industrial and commercial places liable to inspection, number of inspections, violations detected and penalties imposed, statistics of industrial accidents and cases of occupational diseases, etc.). Noting the information provided by the Government, that inspection reports are drawn up following every inspection visit, the Committee believes that the central authority should be in a position to provide the majority of this information, and at least information on the number of inspection visits, the violations detected and legal provisions to which they relate, as well as on any follow-up measures taken.

The Committee reminds the Government that it may avail itself of ILO assistance in order to ensure that the central inspection authority fulfils its obligations under Articles 20 and 21.

The Committee is raising other points in a request addressed directly to the Government.

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

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:

Repetition

Further to its observation, the Committee asks the Government to provide additional information on the following matters.

Article 6 of the Convention. Conditions of service of labour inspectors. In response to the Committee’s previous comments expressing the hope that the Government would soon be in a position to ensure that the wages paid to labour inspectors were increased so as to attract and retain qualified personnel and safeguard such personnel from any undue influence, the Government states in its 2007 report, that wages paid in the public service, and therefore those of labour inspectors, are not very high due to the fragile economic state of the country. It indicates, however, that a wage revision plan is envisaged, together with a reform of professional careers. The Committee hopes that the measures envisaged will soon be put into practice and asks the Government to keep the Office informed in this respect.

Articles 10 and 11(1)(a). Number of labour inspectors, conditions of work and material resources. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that a Ministry of Labour restructuring project, which should make the labour inspectorate more dynamic, will soon be approved by the Council of Ministers and communicated to the ILO as soon as it is approved. While waiting to examine the new structure, the Committee once again asks the Government to indicate the number of inspectors employed, their geographical distribution, grade, and conditions of work (office facilities and equipment, etc.).

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

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which read as follows:

Repetition

Article 14 of the Convention. Information on industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease. The Committee notes the Government’s commitment, in response to its previous comments, to making every possible effort to ensure that the labour inspectorate is informed of industrial accidents and occupational diseases. It asks the Government to provide in its next report information on the procedures introduced and the specific measures taken to this effect.

Articles 19, 20 and 21. Inspection activity reports. Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes that the Government has not provided any information on measures taken to ensure the publication and communication to the ILO of an annual report on the work of the labour inspectorate. It therefore asks the Government to take, in the very near future and with ILO technical assistance if necessary, measures to ensure that the central inspection authority fulfils its obligations under Articles 20 and 21, on the basis of regular inspection reports submitted to it, in accordance with Article 19, by the services under its control. The Committee asks the Government to keep the Office informed of any progress made in this respect and to provide in its next report any available information on inspection visits carried out during the period covered and on the results of these visits (including, in particular, details of the number and categories of inspected establishments, the contraventions reported, the measures prescribed, and the penalties imposed and effectively enforced).

The Committee is raising other points in a request addressed directly to the Government.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the very near future.

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

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:

Repetition

Further to its observation, the Committee asks the Government to provide additional information on the following matters.

Article 6 of the Convention. Conditions of service of labour inspectors. In response to the Committee’s previous comments expressing the hope that the Government would soon be in a position to ensure that the wages paid to labour inspectors were increased so as to attract and retain qualified personnel and safeguard such personnel from any undue influence, the Government states in its 2007 report, that wages paid in the public service, and therefore those of labour inspectors, are not very high due to the fragile economic state of the country. It indicates, however, that a wage revision plan is envisaged, together with a reform of professional careers. The Committee hopes that the measures envisaged will soon be put into practice and asks the Government to keep the Office informed in this respect.

Articles 10 and 11(1)(a). Number of labour inspectors, conditions of work and material resources. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that a Ministry of Labour restructuring project, which should make the labour inspectorate more dynamic, will soon be approved by the Council of Ministers and communicated to the ILO as soon as it is approved. While waiting to examine the new structure, the Committee once again asks the Government to indicate the number of inspectors employed, their geographical distribution, grade, and conditions of work (office facilities and equipment, etc.).

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

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which read as follows:

Repetition

Article 14 of the Convention. Information on industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease. The Committee notes the Government’s commitment, in response to its previous comments, to making every possible effort to ensure that the labour inspectorate is informed of industrial accidents and occupational diseases. It asks the Government to provide in its next report information on the procedures introduced and the specific measures taken to this effect.

Articles 19, 20 and 21. Inspection activity reports. Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes that the Government has not provided any information on measures taken to ensure the publication and communication to the ILO of an annual report on the work of the labour inspectorate. It therefore asks the Government to take, in the very near future and with ILO technical assistance if necessary, measures to ensure that the central inspection authority fulfils its obligations under Articles 20 and 21, on the basis of regular inspection reports submitted to it, in accordance with Article 19, by the services under its control. The Committee asks the Government to keep the Office informed of any progress made in this respect and to provide in its next report any available information on inspection visits carried out during the period covered and on the results of these visits (including, in particular, details of the number and categories of inspected establishments, the contraventions reported, the measures prescribed, and the penalties imposed and effectively enforced).

The Committee is raising other points in a request addressed directly to the Government.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the very near future.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2010, published 100th ILC session (2011)

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:

Further to its observation, the Committee asks the Government to provide additional information on the following matters.

Article 6 of the Convention. Conditions of service of labour inspectors. In response to the Committee’s previous comments expressing the hope that the Government would soon be in a position to ensure that the wages paid to labour inspectors were increased so as to attract and retain qualified personnel and safeguard such personnel from any undue influence, the Government states in its 2007 report, that wages paid in the public service, and therefore those of labour inspectors, are not very high due to the fragile economic state of the country. It indicates, however, that a wage revision plan is envisaged, together with a reform of professional careers. The Committee hopes that the measures envisaged will soon be put into practice and asks the Government to keep the Office informed in this respect.

Articles 10 and 11, paragraph 1(a). Number of labour inspectors, conditions of work and material resources. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that a Ministry of Labour restructuring project, which should make the labour inspectorate more dynamic, will soon be approved by the Council of Ministers and communicated to the ILO as soon as it is approved. While waiting to examine the new structure, the Committee once again asks the Government to indicate the number of inspectors employed, their geographical distribution, grade, and conditions of work (office facilities and equipment, etc.).

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2010, published 100th ILC session (2011)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation, which read as follows:

Article 14 of the Convention. Information on industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease. The Committee notes the Government’s commitment, in response to its previous comments, to making every possible effort to ensure that the labour inspectorate is informed of industrial accidents and occupational diseases. It asks the Government to provide in its next report information on the procedures introduced and the specific measures taken to this effect.

Articles 19, 20 and 21. Inspection activity reports. Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes that the Government has not provided any information on measures taken to ensure the publication and communication to the ILO of an annual report on the work of the labour inspectorate. It therefore asks the Government to take, in the very near future and with ILO technical assistance if necessary, measures to ensure that the central inspection authority fulfils its obligations under Articles 20 and 21, on the basis of regular inspection reports submitted to it, in accordance with Article 19, by the services under its control. The Committee asks the Government to keep the Office informed of any progress made in this respect and to provide in its next report any available information on inspection visits carried out during the period covered and on the results of these visits (including, in particular, details of the number and categories of inspected establishments, the contraventions reported, the measures prescribed, and the penalties imposed and effectively enforced).

The Committee is raising other points in a request addressed directly to the Government.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the very near future.

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

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:

Further to its observation, the Committee asks the Government to provide additional information on the following matters.

Article 6 of the Convention. Conditions of service of labour inspectors. In response to the Committee’s previous comments expressing the hope that the Government would soon be in a position to ensure that the wages paid to labour inspectors were increased so as to attract and retain qualified personnel and safeguard such personnel from any undue influence, the Government states in its 2007 report, that wages paid in the public service, and therefore those of labour inspectors, are not very high due to the fragile economic state of the country. It indicates, however, that a wage revision plan is envisaged, together with a reform of professional careers. The Committee hopes that the measures envisaged will soon be put into practice and asks the Government to keep the Office informed in this respect.

Articles 10 and 11, paragraph 1(a). Number of labour inspectors, conditions of work and material resources. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that a Ministry of Labour restructuring project, which should make the labour inspectorate more dynamic, will soon be approved by the Council of Ministers and communicated to the ILO as soon as it is approved. While waiting to examine the new structure, the Committee once again asks the Government to indicate the number of inspectors employed, their geographical distribution, grade, and conditions of work (office facilities and equipment, etc.).

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

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It therefore is bound to repeat its previous observation, which read as follows:

Article 14 of the Convention. Information on industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease. The Committee notes the Government’s commitment, in response to its previous comments, to making every possible effort to ensure that the labour inspectorate is informed of industrial accidents and occupational diseases. It asks the Government to provide in its next report information on the procedures introduced and the specific measures taken to this effect.

Articles 19, 20 and 21. Inspection activity reports. Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes that the Government has not provided any information on measures taken to ensure the publication and communication to the ILO of an annual report on the work of the labour inspectorate. It therefore asks the Government to take, in the very near future and with ILO technical assistance if necessary, measures to ensure that the central inspection authority fulfils its obligations under Articles 20 and 21, on the basis of regular inspection reports submitted to it, in accordance with Article 19, by the services under its control. The Committee asks the Government to keep the Office informed of any progress made in this respect and to provide in its next report any available information on inspection visits carried out during the period covered and on the results of these visits (including, in particular, details of the number and categories of inspected establishments, the contraventions reported, the measures prescribed, and the penalties imposed and effectively enforced).

The Committee is raising other points in a request addressed directly to the Government.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the very near future.

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

Further to its observation, the Committee asks the Government to provide additional information on the following matters.

Article 6 of the Convention. Conditions of service of labour inspectors. In response to the Committee’s previous comments expressing the hope that the Government would soon be in a position to ensure that the wages paid to labour inspectors were increased so as to attract and retain qualified personnel and safeguard such personnel from any undue influence, the Government states in its 2007 report, that wages paid in the public service, and therefore those of labour inspectors, are not very high due to the fragile economic state of the country. It indicates, however, that a wage revision plan is envisaged, together with a reform of professional careers. The Committee hopes that the measures envisaged will soon be put into practice and asks the Government to keep the Office informed in this respect.

Articles 10 and 11, paragraph 1(a). Number of labour inspectors, conditions of work and material resources. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that a Ministry of Labour restructuring project, which should make the labour inspectorate more dynamic, will soon be approved by the Council of Ministers and communicated to the ILO as soon as it is approved. While waiting to examine the new structure, the Committee once again asks the Government to indicate the number of inspectors employed, their geographical distribution, grade, and conditions of work (office facilities and equipment, etc.).

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

The Committee notes the Government’s brief report replying to its previous comments.

1. Article 14 of the Convention. Information on industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease. The Committee notes the Government’s commitment, in response to its previous comments, to making every possible effort to ensure that the labour inspectorate is informed of industrial accidents and occupational diseases. It asks the Government to provide in its next report information on the procedures introduced and the specific measures taken to this effect.

2. Articles 19, 20 and 21. Inspection activity reports. Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes that the Government has not provided any information on measures taken to ensure the publication and communication to the ILO of an annual report on the work of the labour inspectorate. It therefore asks the Government to take, in the very near future and with ILO technical assistance if necessary, measures to ensure that the central inspection authority fulfils its obligations under Articles 20 and 21, on the basis of regular inspection reports submitted to it, in accordance with Article 19, by the services under its control. The Committee asks the Government to keep the Office informed of any progress made in this respect and to provide in its next report any available information on inspection visits carried out during the period covered and on the results of these visits (including, in particular, details of the number and categories of inspected establishments, the contraventions reported, the measures prescribed, and the penalties imposed and effectively enforced).

The Committee is addressing a direct request to the Government concerning a number of other points.

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

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 refers to its observation and would be grateful if the Government would provide information on the action taken further to the draft amendment of the texts concerning the structure of the Ministry of Labour and the functions of the labour inspectorate.

Article 6 of the Convention. Further to its previous comments on the level of remuneration of labour inspectors, the Committee again wishes to emphasize, as it did in its General Survey of 1985 on labour inspection (paragraph 144), that the efficiency of the inspection services demands, inter alia, levels of remuneration and career prospects that are sufficient to attract and retain high-quality personnel and to safeguard them from any undue influence. It hopes that in its formulation of the national budget plan, the Government will be able to convince the competent authorities of the advisability of envisaging an increase in the remuneration of labour inspectors to mark the complexity of their duties.

Article 7. Noting that the Government has requested ILO technical assistance in the training of labour inspectorate staff, the Committee hopes that the request will succeed and asks the Government to provide information on the measures taken for this purpose and their results.

Article 10. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate the number of labour inspectors, including the new recruits envisaged for 2004.

Article 11. Noting the need for supplies, office equipment, transport facilities and vehicle maintenance set out in one of the inspection reports sent by the Government, the Committee hopes that the Government will take steps, calling on international cooperation bodies, if need be, to obtain the necessary resources to provide labour inspectors with the means which are essential to the performance of their duties. It would be grateful if the Government would provide information on any measures taken to this end, on any difficulties encountered and on results obtained.

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

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the Government’s incomplete replies to its previous comments and the two reports on labour inspection attached thereto.

Article 14 of the Convention. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would take prompt measures to ensure that the labour inspectorate is informed of industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease in such cases and in such manner as may be prescribed by national laws or regulations, and provide relevant information.

Articles 20 and 21. The Committee notes that the inspection reports sent by the Government fall short, both in form and in substance, of the requirements set by the Convention. The Committee once again expresses the hope that the Government will soon be able to report that measures have been taken to ensure that the central inspection authority has fulfilled, if necessary with ILO technical assistance, the obligations laid down by the above provisions of the Convention.

The Committee is addressing a request on other points directly to the Government.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the very near future.

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

The Committee refers to its observation and would be grateful if the Government would provide information on the action taken further to the draft amendment of the texts concerning the structure of the Ministry of Labour and the functions of the labour inspectorate.

Article 6 of the Convention. Further to its previous comments on the level of remuneration of labour inspectors, the Committee again wishes to emphasize, as it did in its General Survey of 1985 on labour inspection (paragraph 144), that the efficiency of the inspection services demands, inter alia, levels of remuneration and career prospects that are sufficient to attract and retain high-quality personnel and to safeguard them from any undue influence. It hopes that in its formulation of the national budget plan, the Government will be able to convince the competent authorities of the advisability of envisaging an increase in the remuneration of labour inspectors to mark the complexity of their duties.

Article 7. Noting that the Government has requested ILO technical assistance in the training of labour inspectorate staff, the Committee hopes that the request will succeed and asks the Government to provide information on the measures taken for this purpose and their results.

Article 10. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate the number of labour inspectors, including the new recruits envisaged for 2004.

Article 11. Noting the need for supplies, office equipment, transport facilities and vehicle maintenance set out in one of the inspection reports sent by the Government, the Committee hopes that the Government will take steps, calling on international cooperation bodies, if need be, to obtain the necessary resources to provide labour inspectors with the means which are essential to the performance of their duties. It would be grateful if the Government would provide information on any measures taken to this end, on any difficulties encountered and on results obtained.

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

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat is previous observation which read as follows:

The Committee notes the Government’s incomplete replies to its previous comments and the two reports on labour inspection attached thereto.

Article 14 of the Convention. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would take prompt measures to ensure that the labour inspectorate is informed of industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease in such cases and in such manner as may be prescribed by national laws or regulations, and provide relevant information.

Articles 20 and 21. The Committee notes that the inspection reports sent by the Government fall short, both in form and in substance, of the requirements set by the Convention. The Committee once again expresses the hope that the Government will soon be able to report that measures have been taken to ensure that the central inspection authority has fulfilled, if necessary with ILO technical assistance, the obligations laid down by the above provisions of the Convention.

The Committee is addressing a request on other points directly to the Government.

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

The Committee refers to its observation and would be grateful if the Government would provide information on the action taken further to the draft amendment of the texts concerning the structure of the Ministry of Labour and the functions of the labour inspectorate.

Article 6 of the Convention. Further to its previous comments on the level of remuneration of labour inspectors, the Committee again wishes to emphasize, as it did in its General Survey of 1985 on labour inspection (paragraph 144), that the efficiency of the inspection services demands, inter alia, levels of remuneration and career prospects that are sufficient to attract and retain high-quality personnel and to safeguard them from any undue influence. It hopes that in its formulation of the national budget plan, the Government will be able to convince the competent authorities of the advisability of envisaging an increase in the remuneration of labour inspectors to mark the complexity of their duties.

Article 7. Noting that the Government has requested ILO technical assistance in the training of labour inspectorate staff, the Committee hopes that the request will succeed and asks the Government to provide information on the measures taken for this purpose and their results.

Article 10. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate the number of labour inspectors including the new recruits envisaged for 2004.

Article 11. Noting the need for supplies, office equipment, transport facilities and vehicle maintenance set out in one of the inspection reports sent by the Government, the Committee hopes that the Government will take steps, calling on international cooperation bodies, if need be, to obtain the necessary resources to provide labour inspectors with the means which are essential to the performance of their duties. It would be grateful if the Government would provide information on any measures taken to this end, on any difficulties encountered and on results obtained.

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

The Committee notes the Government’s incomplete replies to its previous comments and the two reports on labour inspection attached thereto.

Article 14 of the Convention. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would take prompt measures to ensure that the labour inspectorate is informed of industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease in such cases and in such manner as may be prescribed by national laws or regulations, and provide relevant information.

Articles 20 and 21. The Committee notes that the inspection reports sent by the Government fall short, both in form and in substance, of the requirements set by the Convention. Drawing the Government’s attention to paragraphs 272 et seq. of its General Survey of 1985, in which it stressed the importance of such reports from both a national and international point of view, the Committee once again expresses the hope that the Government will soon be able to report that measures have been taken to ensure that the central inspection authority has fulfilled, if necessary with ILO technical assistance, the obligations laid down by the above provisions of the Convention.

The Committee is addressing a request on other points directly to the Government.

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

The Committee notes the Government’s report replying to its previous comments. It requests the Government to provide additional information on the following points.

Article 6 of the Convention. The Committee notes that, in the Government’s view, the level of labour inspectors’ wages, though comparable to that of other public servants, is inadequate in the light of the tasks they have to perform. The Committee asks the Government to indicate whether measures are envisaged to improve the pay conditions of inspectors and, if so, to provide copies of any relevant documents.

Articles 11, paragraph 1(b); and 16. The Committee notes with interest that the central inspectorate of Sao Tome and Principe has three vehicles. It requests the Government to indicate whether the three additional vehicles, two of which are intended for inspectors of the Autonomous Region of Principe Inspectorate have been acquired in the context of technical cooperation, as announced in the report.

The Government is asked also to provide information on any changes in inspection visits as a result of the reinforcement of the inspectorate’s means of transport and the implementation of the labour inspectorate development programme, which, according to the report, has made it possible to establish reliable and up-to-date databases.

Article 14. According to the Government, legislation needs to be adopted in order to give effect to this provision of the Convention, under which labour inspectors are to be informed of occupational accidents and diseases in the instances and in accordance with the manner prescribed by national legislation. The Committee stresses the importance which must be attached to implementing this provision of the Convention in order to develop inspection measures to prevent occupational risks. The Committee therefore trusts that measures have been taken to this end and that the Government will be in a position to send information in its next report on progress made in this area.

Articles 20 and 21. With reference to its previous comments, the Committee again requests the Government to ensure that an annual activity report is published by the central labour inspection authority and sent to the Office, in accordance with these two provisions of the Convention.

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

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:

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 reads as follows:

The Committee notes the Government’s report as well as the adoption of Decree No. 69/95 that approved the Statute of Labour Inspection. It requests the Government to provide further information on the following points:

Article 3 of the Convention. Please indicate whether any additional duties were entrusted to labour inspectors and whether any measures have been taken or envisaged in order to ensure that such additional duties do not interfere with the effective discharge of inspectors’ primary duties.

Article 6. The Committee asks the Government to provide information enabling it to compare the average annual salary of labour inspectors with that of public officials and the average annual wage in Sao Tome and Principe.

Article 8. Please indicate the current percentage of women appointed to the inspection staff in general and to each of the levels of the labour inspection, indicated in Annex I to the Statute of the Labour Inspection, in particular.

Article 9. The Committee notes the indication in the Government’s report that the staff of the labour inspection does not include specialists in medicine, engineering, electricity, chemistry etc. The Committee further notes that in accordance with article 11 of the Statute of the Labour Inspection, the labour inspection in the process of performance of its functions can request the collaboration of any administrative or police authorities. The Committee also notes that in accordance with paragraph 3 of article 12 of the Statute of Labour Inspection, the inspection staff in carrying out its duties can request to be accompanied by technical specialists from other public services, as well as by technical specialists of associations of employers or workers, if they possess the appropriate credentials for the entity to be inspected and the respective tasks to be performed. The Committee asks the Government to indicate: (i) whether such technical specialists actually participate in the inspection visits; (ii) what is the overall number of inspection visits with their participation; and (iii) what are the other forms of their collaboration with labour inspectors.

Article 10. The Committee asks the Government to indicate the current number of labour inspectors.

Article 11(1)(b). The Committee notes that in accordance with paragraph 1 of article 18 of the Statute of Labour Inspection, the executive and technical personnel of the labour inspection, when they are at work, have the right to use free of charge the means of collective public road transportation. The Committee further notes the indication in the Government’s report that the labour inspectorate does not have its own means of transportation and, therefore, it needs to ask other public services to allow the use of such facilities which results in low efficiency of inspection services. The Committee recalls its comments made on several occasions that the frequency of inspection visits depends, inter alia, on the availability of transport. The Committee hopes that the Government will take necessary steps to provide inspectors with suitable transport facilities and asks the Government to indicate measures taken or envisaged in this respect.

Article 14. The Committee notes the indication in the report that proper attention was previously not given to the notification of the labour inspectorate of industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease, but that this matter was taken into consideration in the process of preparation of new labour legislation. The Committee asks the Government to provide information about any progress made in this respect.

Article 15. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on the practical application of Article 15(a), of the Convention and, in particular, the criteria and the procedure for its enforcement.

Article 16. The Committee asks the Government to indicate: (i) the total number of workplaces liable to inspection; (ii) the number of initial and second inspection visits made and the number of workplaces inspected during the latest reporting period; and (iii) the usual period between two consecutive planned inspections at a given workplace. Please describe the manner in which inspection visits are conducted in practice.

Article 20. The Committee notes that no copy of the annual general report of the central inspection authority of Sao Tome and Principe was received. The Committee asks the Government to provide a copy of such report within the time limits set forth by Article 20, paragraph 3, of the Convention and to describe the procedure for access to such report by an interested party.

Article 21. The Committee asks the Government to take into consideration that annual reports published by the central inspection authority shall deal in particular with the subjects listed in Article 21 of the Convention, including, but not limited to, statistics of industrial accidents and statistics of occupational diseases (Article 21(f) and (g)).

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

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 reads as follows:

The Committee notes the Government’s report as well as the adoption of Decree No. 69/95 that approved the Statute of Labour Inspection. It requests the Government to provide further information on the following points:

Article 3 of the Convention.  Please indicate whether any additional duties were entrusted to labour inspectors and whether any measures have been taken or envisaged in order to ensure that such additional duties do not interfere with the effective discharge of inspectors’ primary duties.

Article 6.  The Committee asks the Government to provide information enabling it to compare the average annual salary of labour inspectors with that of public officials and the average annual wage in Sao Tome and Principe.

Article 8.  Please indicate the current percentage of women appointed to the inspection staff in general and to each of the levels of the labour inspection, indicated in Annex I to the Statute of the Labour Inspection, in particular.

Article 9.  The Committee notes the indication in the Government’s report that the staff of the labour inspection does not include specialists in medicine, engineering, electricity, chemistry etc. The Committee further notes that in accordance with article 11 of the Statute of the Labour Inspection, the labour inspection in the process of performance of its functions can request the collaboration of any administrative or police authorities. The Committee also notes that in accordance with paragraph 3 of article 12 of the Statute of Labour Inspection, the inspection staff in carrying out its duties can request to be accompanied by technical specialists from other public services, as well as by technical specialists of associations of employers or workers, if they possess the appropriate credentials for the entity to be inspected and the respective tasks to be performed. The Committee asks the Government to indicate: (i) whether such technical specialists actually participate in the inspection visits; (ii) what is the overall number of inspection visits with their participation; and (iii) what are the other forms of their collaboration with labour inspectors.

Article 10.  The Committee asks the Government to indicate the current number of labour inspectors.

Article 11(1)(b).  The Committee notes that in accordance with paragraph 1 of article 18 of the Statute of Labour Inspection, the executive and technical personnel of the labour inspection, when they are at work, have the right to use free of charge the means of collective public road transportation. The Committee further notes the indication in the Government’s report that the labour inspectorate does not have its own means of transportation and, therefore, it needs to ask other public services to allow the use of such facilities which results in low efficiency of inspection services. The Committee recalls its comments made on several occasions that the frequency of inspection visits depends, inter alia, on the availability of transport. The Committee hopes that the Government will take necessary steps to provide inspectors with suitable transport facilities and asks the Government to indicate measures taken or envisaged in this respect.

Article 14.  The Committee notes the indication in the report that proper attention was previously not given to the notification of the labour inspectorate of industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease, but that this matter was taken into consideration in the process of preparation of new labour legislation. The Committee asks the Government to provide information about any progress made in this respect.

Article 15.  The Committee asks the Government to provide information on the practical application of Article 15(a), of the Convention and, in particular, the criteria and the procedure for its enforcement.

Article 16.  The Committee asks the Government to indicate: (i) the total number of workplaces liable to inspection; (ii) the number of initial and second inspection visits made and the number of workplaces inspected during the latest reporting period; and (iii) the usual period between two consecutive planned inspections at a given workplace. Please describe the manner in which inspection visits are conducted in practice.

Article 20.  The Committee notes that no copy of the annual general report of the central inspection authority of Sao Tome and Principe was received. The Committee asks the Government to provide a copy of such report within the time limits set forth by Article 20, paragraph 3, of the Convention and to describe the procedure for access to such report by an interested party.

Article 21.  The Committee asks the Government to take into consideration that annual reports published by the central inspection authority shall deal in particular with the subjects listed in Article 21 of the Convention, including, but not limited to, statistics of industrial accidents and statistics of occupational diseases (Article 21(f) and (g)).

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

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 Government's report as well as the adoption of Decree No. 69/95 that approved the Statute of Labour Inspection. It requests the Government to provide further information on the following points:

Article 3 of the Convention. Please indicate whether any additional duties were entrusted to labour inspectors and whether any measures have been taken or envisaged in order to ensure that such additional duties do not interfere with the effective discharge of inspectors' primary duties.

Article 6. The Committee asks the Government to provide information enabling it to compare the average annual salary of labour inspectors with that of public officials and the average annual wage in Sao Tome and Principe.

Article 8. Please indicate the current percentage of women appointed to the inspection staff in general and to each of the levels of the labour inspection, indicated in Annex I to the Statute of the Labour Inspection, in particular.

Article 9. The Committee notes the indication in the Government's report that the staff of the labour inspection does not include specialists in medicine, engineering, electricity, chemistry etc. The Committee further notes that in accordance with article 11 of the Statute of the Labour Inspection, the labour inspection in the process of performance of its functions can request the collaboration of any administrative or police authorities. The Committee also notes that in accordance with paragraph 3 of article 12 of the Statute of Labour Inspection, the inspection staff in carrying out its duties can request to be accompanied by technical specialists from other public services, as well as by technical specialists of associations of employers or workers, if they possess the appropriate credentials for the entity to be inspected and the respective tasks to be performed. The Committee asks the Government to indicate: (i) whether such technical specialists actually participate in the inspection visits; (ii) what is the overall number of inspection visits with their participation; and (iii) what are the other forms of their collaboration with labour inspectors.

Article 10. The Committee asks the Government to indicate the current number of labour inspectors.

Article 11, subparagraph 1(b). The Committee notes that in accordance with paragraph 1 of article 18 of the Statute of Labour Inspection, the executive and technical personnel of the labour inspection, when they are at work, have the right to use free of charge the means of collective public road transportation. The Committee further notes the indication in the Government's report that the labour inspectorate does not have its own means of transportation and, therefore, it needs to ask other public services to allow the use of such facilities which results in low efficiency of inspection services. The Committee recalls its comments made on several occasions that the frequency of inspection visits depends, inter alia, on the availability of transport. The Committee hopes that the Government will take necessary steps to provide inspectors with suitable transport facilities and asks the Government to indicate measures taken or envisaged in this respect.

Article 14. The Committee notes the indication in the report that proper attention was previously not given to the notification of the labour inspectorate of industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease, but that this matter was taken into consideration in the process of preparation of new labour legislation. The Committee asks the Government to provide information about any progress made in this respect.

Article 15. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on the practical application of Article 15, paragraph (a), of the Convention and, in particular, the criteria and the procedure for its enforcement.

Article 16. The Committee asks the Government to indicate: (i) the total number of workplaces liable to inspection; (ii) the number of initial and second inspection visits made and the number of workplaces inspected during the latest reporting period; and (iii) the usual period between two consecutive planned inspections at a given workplace. Please describe the manner in which inspection visits are conducted in practice.

Article 20. The Committee notes that no copy of the annual general report of the central inspection authority of Sao Tome and Principe was received. The Committee asks the Government to provide a copy of such report within the time limits set forth by Article 20, paragraph 3, of the Convention and to describe the procedure for access to such report by an interested party.

Article 21. The Committee asks the Government to take into consideration that annual reports published by the central inspection authority shall deal in particular with the subjects listed in Article 21 of the Convention, including, but not limited to, statistics of industrial accidents and statistics of occupational diseases (Article 21, paragraphs (f) and (g)).

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

The Committee notes the Government's report as well as the adoption of Decree No. 69/95 that approved the Statute of Labour Inspection. It requests the Government to provide further information on the following points:

Article 3 of the Convention. Please indicate whether any additional duties were entrusted to labour inspectors and whether any measures have been taken or envisaged in order to ensure that such additional duties do not interfere with the effective discharge of inspectors' primary duties.

Article 6. The Committee asks the Government to provide information enabling it to compare the average annual salary of labour inspectors with that of public officials and the average annual wage in Sao Tome and Principe.

Article 8. Please indicate the current percentage of women appointed to the inspection staff in general and to each of the levels of the labour inspection, indicated in Annex I to the Statute of the Labour Inspection, in particular.

Article 9. The Committee notes the indication in the Government's report that the staff of the labour inspection does not include specialists in medicine, engineering, electricity, chemistry etc. The Committee further notes that in accordance with article 11 of the Statute of the Labour Inspection, the labour inspection in the process of performance of its functions can request the collaboration of any administrative or police authorities. The Committee also notes that in accordance with paragraph 3 of article 12 of the Statute of Labour Inspection, the inspection staff in carrying out its duties can request to be accompanied by technical specialists from other public services, as well as by technical specialists of associations of employers or workers, if they possess the appropriate credentials for the entity to be inspected and the respective tasks to be performed. The Committee asks the Government to indicate: (i) whether such technical specialists actually participate in the inspection visits; (ii) what is the overall number of inspection visits with their participation; and (iii) what are the other forms of their collaboration with labour inspectors.

Article 10. The Committee asks the Government to indicate the current number of labour inspectors.

Article 11, subparagraph 1(b). The Committee notes that in accordance with paragraph 1 of article 18 of the Statute of Labour Inspection, the executive and technical personnel of the labour inspection, when they are at work, have the right to use free of charge the means of collective public road transportation. The Committee further notes the indication in the Government's report that the labour inspectorate does not have its own means of transportation and, therefore, it needs to ask other public services to allow the use of such facilities which results in low efficiency of inspection services. The Committee recalls its comments made on several occasions that the frequency of inspection visits depends, inter alia, on the availability of transport. The Committee hopes that the Government will take necessary steps to provide inspectors with suitable transport facilities and asks the Government to indicate measures taken or envisaged in this respect.

Article 14. The Committee notes the indication in the report that proper attention was previously not given to the notification of the labour inspectorate of industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease, but that this matter was taken into consideration in the process of preparation of new labour legislation. The Committee asks the Government to provide information about any progress made in this respect.

Article 15. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on the practical application of Article 15, paragraph (a), of the Convention and, in particular, the criteria and the procedure for its enforcement.

Article 16. The Committee asks the Government to indicate: (i) the total number of workplaces liable to inspection; (ii) the number of initial and second inspection visits made and the number of workplaces inspected during the latest reporting period; and (iii) the usual period between two consecutive planned inspections at a given workplace. Please describe the manner in which inspection visits are conducted in practice.

Article 20. The Committee notes that no copy of the annual general report of the central inspection authority of Sao Tome and Principe was received. The Committee asks the Government to provide a copy of such report within the time limits set forth by Article 20, paragraph 3, of the Convention and to describe the procedure for access to such report by an interested party.

Article 21. The Committee asks the Government to take into consideration that annual reports published by the central inspection authority shall deal in particular with the subjects listed in Article 21 of the Convention, including, but not limited to, statistics of industrial accidents and statistics of occupational diseases (Article 21, paragraphs (f) and (g)).

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

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 following matter raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes with interest the information contained in the Government's latest report concerning legislative and administrative changes. The labour inspectorate has been one of the priorities, because of its past difficulties, including severe staff shortages. The Committee therefore notes with interest the Government's request for the technical assistance of the ILO in training the technical staff of the Labour Inspectorate which is now being considered by the responsible authorities together with the Office. It hopes this assistance will be provided soon and enable the Government to address the matters raised in its previous direct request, which dealt with questions related to: the conditions of service and powers of the Labour Inspectorate (Articles 6, 9, 12 paragraph 1(c), 14 and 15(a) and (b) of the Convention), the number of labour inspectors (Article 10), the necessary transport facilities (Article 11), the regularity and thoroughness of visits of workplaces liable to inspection (Article 16) and the publication, transmission and contents of annual general inspection reports (Articles 20 and 21).

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

Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes with interest the information contained in the Government's latest report concerning legislative and administrative changes. The labour inspectorate has been one of the priorities, because of its past difficulties, including severe staff shortages. The Committee therefore notes with interest the Government's request for the technical assistance of the ILO in training the technical staff of the Labour Inspectorate which is now being considered by the responsible authorities together with the Office. It hopes this assistance will be provided soon and enable the Government to address the matters raised in its previous direct request, which dealt with questions related to: the conditions of service and powers of the Labour Inspectorate (Articles 6, 9, 12 paragraph 1(c), 14 and 15(a) and (b) of the Convention), the number of labour inspectors (Article 10), the necessary transport facilities (Article 11), the regularity and thoroughness of visits of workplaces liable to inspection (Article 16) and the publication, transmission and contents of annual general inspection reports (Articles 20 and 21).

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 that the new conditions of service of the labour inspectorate, to which the Government referred in its report for 1988, have not yet been approved. It hopes that this text will shortly be adopted and that it will give full effect to the provisions of Articles 6, 9, 12, paragraph 1(c), 14 and 15(a) and (b) of the Convention which were the subject of its earlier comments.

Articles 10, 11 and 16. The Committee asks the Government to indicate all measures taken or under consideration to reinforce the staff of the labour inspectorate and to provide inspectors with the necessary transport facilities to make regular visits to workplaces liable to inspection.

Articles 20 and 21. The Committee hopes that the difficulties referred to by the Government in its report will shortly be overcome and that, as a result, in future, annual inspection reports containing all the information provided for in Article 21 will be published and communicated to the International Labour Office within the time-limits laid down in Article 20.

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

The Committee notes that the new conditions of service of the labour inspectorate, to which the Government referred in its report for 1988, have not yet been approved. It hopes that this text will shortly be adopted and that it will give full effect to the provisions of Articles 6, 9, 12, paragraph 1(c), 14 and 15(a) and (b) of the Convention which were the subject of its earlier comments.

Articles 10, 11 and 16. The Committee asks the Government to indicate all measures taken or under consideration to reinforce the staff of the labour inspectorate and to provide inspectors with the necessary transport facilities to make regular visits to workplaces liable to inspection.

Articles 20 and 21. The Committee hopes that the difficulties referred to by the Government in its report will shortly be overcome and that, as a result, in future, annual inspection reports containing all the information provided for in Article 21 will be published and communicated to the International Labour Office within the time-limits laid down in Article 20.