Protection of Wages Convention, 1949 (No. 95) - Tajikistan (Ratification: 1993)

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2023, published 112nd ILC session (2024)

Previous comment

Article 7(2) of the Convention. Works stores. Following its previous comment, the Committee notes the Government’s indication in its report that the price of socially essential goods is regulated by the State. While taking note of this information, the Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures adopted to ensure that prices of goods that are sold and services that are provided in work stores and that do not fall within the list of essential goods, are fair and reasonable, or that stores established and services operated by the employer are not operated for the purpose of securing a profit, but for the benefit of the workers concerned.

Articles 12 and 15(b). Regular payment of wages. Control of compliance. Further to its previous comments concerning wage arrears in the country, the Committee notes that the Government indicates a decrease in total wage arrears by 7,533,643 somoni from January 2022 to January 2023, with the total wage arrears amounting to 29,032,605 somoni as of January 2023 (approximately US$26 million). At the same time, the Government indicates that, in the period from November 2022 to December 2022, wage arrears have increased in all types of economic activities of the real sector, except for agriculture, forestry and fisheries. Concerning enforcement activities, the Committee notes the Government’s information that in 2022 the inspection services conducted 2090 inspections. However, the Committee notes that the Government does not indicate if these were inspection visits specifically undertaken to ensure compliance with the timely payment of wages. Concerning enforcement activities, the Committee also refers to its observation made under the Labour Inspection Convention, 1947 (No. 81), regarding a moratorium on all types of inspections of the activities of business entities, which was re-introduced in March 2022, without a limit of time. The Committee requests once again the Government to take all necessary measures to address the persistent issue of wage arrears in the country and to provide information on the results achieved by those measures. With reference to its comments on the application of the Labour Inspection Convention, 1947 (No. 81), the Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that effective penalties are imposed in the event of non-compliance of provisions concerning timely payment of wages, and to provide information in this regard. In this regard, the Committee requests that the Government provides specific information pertaining to the results of labour inspections conducted, including the number of inspection visits undertaken to ensure compliance with the timely payment of wages by sector, the number of cases of non-compliance detected and the measures taken to settle all outstanding payments, including adequate penalties or other appropriate remedies.

Articles 14(b) and 15(d). Wage statements and record-keeping. Following its previous comment, the Committee notes the Government’s reference to the employer’s obligations with regard to wages provided in the national laws. However, the Committee notes that the Government does not indicate how workers are informed of their wages and the form and manner of wage record-keeping. The Committee recalls that under Article 14(b), effective measures must be taken to ensure that workers are informed in an appropriate and easily understandable manner at the time of each payment of wages, of the particulars of their wages for the pay period concerned, in so far as such particulars may be subject to change. The Committee further recalls that Article 15(d) calls for the maintenance, in all appropriate cases, of adequate wage records in an approved form and manner. The Committee wishes to highlight that a failure to inform workers of the particulars of their wages for a given period may be a contributing factor as regards the persistent problem of wage arrears. The Committee therefore once again requests the Government to indicate the measures adopted to give effect to these provisions of the Convention.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2022, published 111st ILC session (2023)

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

Repetition

Article 7(2) of the Convention. Works stores. The Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain information in response to its previous request on this issue.The Committee therefore requests the Government once again to provide information on the measures adopted with the object of ensuring that goods at work stores are sold, and services provided at fair and reasonable prices, or that stores established and services operated by the employer are not operated for the purpose of securing a profit, but for the benefit of the workers concerned, as required by this Article of the Convention.

Articles 12 and 15(b). Regular payment of wages. Control of compliance. Further to its previous comments concerning wage arrears in the country, the Committee notes that the Government indicates that the total amount of arrears of wages as of 1 May 2020, including arrears from previous years, increased by 78.8 per cent compared to the same period in 2019. The Government further indicates that local government authorities have adopted decisions and that the leaders of provinces, towns and districts have adopted decrees to establish the “Executive Unit for the Elimination of Wage Arrears”. Concerning enforcement activities, the Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain information in response to its previous request.Taking note with concern of the continued situation of wage arrears in the country and its dramatic increase in 2020, the Committee requests the Government to step up its efforts to address this issue and to provide information on the results of the measures adopted and envisaged in this regard. The Committee also requests once again the Government to provide information on the number of inspection visits undertaken to ensure compliance with the timely payment of wages by sector, the number of cases of non-compliance detected and the measures taken to settle all outstanding payments, including adequate penalties or other appropriate remedies.

Articles 14(b) and 15(d). Wage statements and record-keeping. Further to its previous comments requesting the Government to indicate how effect is given to these provisions, the Committee notes that the Government’s report is silent on this issue.The Committee therefore once again requests the Government to: (i) specify how it is ensured that workers are informed at the time of each payment of the particulars of their wages for the period concerned, for example by means of payslips (Article 14(b)), and (ii) indicate any legislative or administrative provisions regulating the form and manner in which payroll records must be kept, as well as the specific wage particulars to be shown in those records (Article 15(d)).

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

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

Article 7(2) of the Convention. Works stores. The Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain information in response to its previous request on this issue. The Committee therefore requests the Government once again to provide information on the measures adopted with the object of ensuring that goods at work stores are sold, and services provided at fair and reasonable prices, or that stores established and services operated by the employer are not operated for the purpose of securing a profit, but for the benefit of the workers concerned, as required by this Article of the Convention.

Articles 12 and 15(b). Regular payment of wages. Control of compliance. Further to its previous comments concerning wage arrears in the country, the Committee notes that the Government indicates that the total amount of arrears of wages as of 1 May 2020, including arrears from previous years, increased by 78.8 per cent compared to the same period in 2019. The Government further indicates that local government authorities have adopted decisions and that the leaders of provinces, towns and districts have adopted decrees to establish the “Executive Unit for the Elimination of Wage Arrears”. Concerning enforcement activities, the Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain information in response to its previous request. Taking note with concern of the continued situation of wage arrears in the country and its dramatic increase in 2020, the Committee requests the Government to step up its efforts to address this issue and to provide information on the results of the measures adopted and envisaged in this regard. The Committee also requests once again the Government to provide information on the number of inspection visits undertaken to ensure compliance with the timely payment of wages by sector, the number of cases of non-compliance detected and the measures taken to settle all outstanding payments, including adequate penalties or other appropriate remedies.

Articles 14(b) and 15(d). Wage statements and record-keeping. Further to its previous comments requesting the Government to indicate how effect is given to these provisions, the Committee notes that the Government’s report is silent on this issue. The Committee therefore once again requests the Government to: (i) specify how it is ensured that workers are informed at the time of each payment of the particulars of their wages for the period concerned, for example by means of payslips (Article 14(b)), and (ii) indicate any legislative or administrative provisions regulating the form and manner in which payroll records must be kept, as well as the specific wage particulars to be shown in those records (Article 15(d)).

[The Government is asked to reply in full to the present comments in 2022.]

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

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

Article 7(2) of the Convention. Works stores. Further to its previous request, the Committee notes the Government’s indication in its report that Article 7 is applied in practice. In this respect, the Committee recalls that Article 7(2) provides that where access to stores or services other than those operated in connection with an undertaking is not possible, the competent authority shall take appropriate measures with the object of ensuring that goods are sold and services provided at fair and reasonable prices, or that stores established and services operated by the employer are not operated for the purpose of securing a profit but for the benefit of the workers concerned. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures adopted in this regard.

Article 8. Deductions from wages. In its previous comments, the Committee requested the Government to provide clarification on the purpose of section 109(4) of the Labour Code, according to which the employer was obliged to make deductions from the wage of the worker at his/her request made in writing in order to carry out non-cash payments. In this respect, the Committee notes that: (i) section 163(4) of the new Labour Code adopted in 2016, contains a similar provision; and (ii) the Government indicates that this provision is often used in practice for the convenience of workers following a written agreement, for example, for the repayment of loans or mortgages.

Articles 12 and 15(b). Regular payment of wages. Control of compliance. The Committee previously noted the information provided by the Government concerning the situation of wage arrears in nearly all sectors of the economy, particularly in construction, agriculture and industry. The Committee notes the indications made by the Government that wage arrears continue to be a problem in the country, even though measures have been taken to reduce and prevent them, such as the creation of specific units in ministries, regional and district authorities to coordinate the timely payment of wages. Concerning enforcement activities, the Committee also refers to its observation made under the Labour Inspection Convention, 1947 (No. 81), regarding the adoption of a labour inspection moratorium in 2018 in commercial workplaces for a two-year period. The Committee requests the Government to continue to provide information on the situation in the country concerning wage arrears, as well as on the measures taken to address this issue. Moreover, it requests the Government to provide information on the number of inspection visits undertaken to ensure compliance with the timely payment of wages by sector, the number of cases of non-compliance detected and the measures taken to settle all outstanding payments.

Articles 14(b) and 15(d). Wage statements and record-keeping. Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes that the Labour Code does not require employers to provide wage statements to workers at the time of each payment, or to maintain adequate wage records. It notes that the Government has not provided information on how effect is given in law and practice to these provisions of the Convention. The Committee therefore once again requests the Government to (i) specify how it is ensured that workers are informed at the time of each payment of the particulars of their wages for the period concerned, for example by means of payslips (Article 14(b)), and (ii) indicate any legislative or administrative provisions regulating the form and manner in which payroll records must be kept, as well as the specific wage particulars to be shown in those records (Article 15(d)).

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

Article 7(2) of the Convention. Works stores. Further to its previous request, the Committee notes the Government’s indication in its report that Article 7 is applied in practice. In this respect, the Committee recalls that Article 7(2) provides that where access to stores or services other than those operated in connection with an undertaking is not possible, the competent authority shall take appropriate measures with the object of ensuring that goods are sold and services provided at fair and reasonable prices, or that stores established and services operated by the employer are not operated for the purpose of securing a profit but for the benefit of the workers concerned. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures adopted in this regard.

Article 8. Deductions from wages. In its previous comments, the Committee requested the Government to provide clarification on the purpose of section 109(4) of the Labour Code, according to which the employer was obliged to make deductions from the wage of the worker at his/her request made in writing in order to carry out non-cash payments. In this respect, the Committee notes that: (i) section 163(4) of the new Labour Code adopted in 2016, contains a similar provision; and (ii) the Government indicates that this provision is often used in practice for the convenience of workers following a written agreement, for example, for the repayment of loans or mortgages.

Articles 12 and 15(b). Regular payment of wages. Control of compliance. The Committee previously noted the information provided by the Government concerning the situation of wage arrears in nearly all sectors of the economy, particularly in construction, agriculture and industry. The Committee notes the indications made by the Government that wage arrears continue to be a problem in the country, even though measures have been taken to reduce and prevent them, such as the creation of specific units in ministries, regional and district authorities to coordinate the timely payment of wages. Concerning enforcement activities, the Committee also refers to its observation made under the Labour Inspection Convention, 1947 (No. 81) regarding the adoption of a labour inspection moratorium in 2018 in commercial workplaces for a two-year period. The Committee requests the Government to continue to provide information on the situation in the country concerning wage arrears, as well as on the measures taken to address this issue. Moreover, it requests the Government to provide information on the number of inspection visits undertaken to ensure compliance with the timely payment of wages by sector, the number of cases of non-compliance detected and the measures taken to settle all outstanding payments.

Articles 14(b) and 15(d). Wage statements and record-keeping. Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes that the Labour Code does not require employers to provide wage statements to workers at the time of each payment, or to maintain adequate wage records. It notes that the Government has not provided information on how effect is given in law and practice to these provisions of the Convention. The Committee therefore once again requests the Government to (i) specify how it is ensured that workers are informed at the time of each payment of the particulars of their wages for the period concerned, for example by means of payslips (Article 14(b)), and (ii) indicate any legislative or administrative provisions regulating the form and manner in which payroll records must be kept, as well as the specific wage particulars to be shown in those records (Article 15(d)).

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2014, published 104th ILC session (2015)

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 comments.

Repetition

Articles 1, 6, 7, 9 and 15(c) and (d) of the Convention. Definition of the term “wages”. Freedom of workers to dispose of their wages. Works stores. Payment for the purpose of obtaining or retaining employment. Sanctions and record keeping. The Committee notes that the Government’s report is silent on these matters. It therefore once more requests the Government to indicate how effect is given to these Articles of the Convention in law and practice and to transmit any relevant legal texts which may not have been previously provided.

Article 8. Deductions from wages. The Committee notes that under section 109(4) of the Labour Code, as amended, the employer is obliged to make deductions from the wage of the worker at his/her request made in writing in order to carry out non-cash settlements. To the extent that this provision appears to authorize wage deductions with the worker’s consent, the Committee is bound to recall that, under Article 8(1) of the Convention, the types and extent of permissible deductions must be prescribed by national laws or regulations or fixed by collective agreement or arbitration award and not by individual agreements. In this connection, the Committee refers to paragraph 217 of its General Survey of 2003 on the protection of wages, in which it noted that Article 8(1) of the Convention makes exclusive reference to national laws or regulations, collective agreements and arbitration awards as being the only valid legal bases for effecting deductions from wages, the aim being clearly to exclude “private” arrangements which might involve unlawful or abusive deductions to the detriment of the worker’s earnings. The Committee therefore considers that provisions of national legislation which permit deductions by virtue of individual agreements or consent are not compatible with this Article of the Convention. The Committee would appreciate receiving further clarifications as to the exact purpose and object of section 109(4) of the Labour Code.

Article 12(2). Regular payment of wages. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government concerning the situation of wage arrears experienced in the national economy. According to official data published by the State Statistical Committee, as of December 2008, the overall wage debt amounted to 20.9 million Tajikistan somoni (approximately US$4.8 million). Wage arrears increased in all spheres of non-material production, especially in the fields of science and health, where unpaid wages increased by 7.3 and 4.8 times, respectively. The sectors which are mostly affected by wage arrears are agriculture (65 per cent of the total amount of the wage debt), industry (15.5 per cent) and construction (6.2 per cent). The Committee requests the Government to provide in its next report up to date information on the nature and extent of the persistent difficulties concerning the timely payment of wages and the measures or initiatives taken in order to settle all outstanding payments. The Committee would appreciate receiving detailed information on the total amount of wage arrears, the sectors of economic activity and number of workers affected, the average delay in the payment of wages and any negotiated timetable for the reimbursement of the wage sums in question.

Article 14(b). Wage statements. The Committee notes that, according to the Government’s report, measures have been taken to give effect to the requirements of this Article of the Convention, but no concrete information has been provided in this regard. The Committee requests the Government to specify how it is ensured in law and practice that workers are informed at the time of each payment of wages of the particulars of their wages for the pay period concerned (for example, by means of payslips).

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

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

Articles 1, 6, 7, 9 and 15(c) and (d) of the Convention. Definition of the term “wages” – Freedom of workers to dispose of their wages – Works stores – Payment for the purpose of obtaining or retaining employment – Sanctions and record keeping. The Committee notes that the Government’s report is silent on these matters. It therefore once more requests the Government to indicate how effect is given to these Articles of the Convention in law and practice and to transmit any relevant legal texts which may not have been previously provided.

Article 8. Deductions from wages. The Committee notes that under section 109(4) of the Labour Code, as amended, the employer is obliged to make deductions from the wage of the worker at his/her request made in writing in order to carry out non-cash settlements. To the extent that this provision appears to authorize wage deductions with the worker’s consent, the Committee is bound to recall that, under Article 8(1) of the Convention, the types and extent of permissible deductions must be prescribed by national laws or regulations or fixed by collective agreement or arbitration award and not by individual agreements. In this connection, the Committee refers to paragraph 217 of its General Survey of 2003 on the protection of wages, in which it noted that Article 8(1) of the Convention makes exclusive reference to national laws or regulations, collective agreements and arbitration awards as being the only valid legal bases for effecting deductions from wages, the aim being clearly to exclude “private” arrangements which might involve unlawful or abusive deductions to the detriment of the worker’s earnings. The Committee therefore considers that provisions of national legislation which permit deductions by virtue of individual agreements or consent are not compatible with this Article of the Convention. The Committee would appreciate receiving further clarifications as to the exact purpose and object of section 109(4) of the Labour Code.

Article 12(2). Regular payment of wages. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government concerning the situation of wage arrears experienced in the national economy. According to official data published by the State Statistical Committee, as of December 2008, the overall wage debt amounted to 20.9 million Tajikistan somoni (approximately US$4.8 million). Wage arrears increased in all spheres of non-material production, especially in the fields of science and health, where unpaid wages increased by 7.3 and 4.8 times, respectively. The sectors which are mostly affected by wage arrears are agriculture (65 per cent of the total amount of the wage debt), industry (15.5 per cent) and construction (6.2 per cent). The Committee requests the Government to provide in its next report up to date information on the nature and extent of the persistent difficulties concerning the timely payment of wages and the measures or initiatives taken in order to settle all outstanding payments. The Committee would appreciate receiving detailed information on the total amount of wage arrears, the sectors of economic activity and number of workers affected, the average delay in the payment of wages and any negotiated timetable for the reimbursement of the wage sums in question.

Article 14(b). Wage statements. The Committee notes that, according to the Government’s report, measures have been taken to give effect to the requirements of this Article of the Convention, but no concrete information has been provided in this regard. The Committee requests the Government to specify how it is ensured in law and practice that workers are informed at the time of each payment of wages of the particulars of their wages for the pay period concerned (for example, by means of payslips).

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

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:

Repetition

Articles 1, 6, 7, 9 and 15 (c) and (d), of the Convention. Definition of the term “wages” – Freedom of workers to dispose of their wages – Works stores – Payment for the purpose of obtaining or retaining employment – Sanctions and record-keeping. The Committee notes that the Government’s report is silent on these matters. It therefore once more requests the Government to indicate how effect is given to these Articles of the Convention in law and practice and to transmit any relevant legal texts which may not have been previously provided.

Article 8. Deductions from wages. The Committee notes that under section 109(4) of the Labour Code, as amended, the employer is obliged to make deductions from the wage of the worker at his/her request made in writing in order to carry out non-cash settlements. To the extent that this provision appears to authorize wage deductions with the worker’s consent, the Committee is bound to recall that, under Article 8(1) of the Convention, the types and extent of permissible deductions must be prescribed by national laws or regulations or fixed by collective agreement or arbitration award and not by individual agreements. In this connection, the Committee refers to paragraph 217 of its General Survey of 2003 on the protection of wages, in which it noted that Article 8(1) of the Convention makes exclusive reference to national laws or regulations, collective agreements and arbitration awards as being the only valid legal bases for effecting deductions from wages, the aim being clearly to exclude “private” arrangements which might involve unlawful or abusive deductions to the detriment of the worker’s earnings. The Committee therefore considers that provisions of national legislation which permit deductions by virtue of individual agreements or consent are not compatible with this Article of the Convention. The Committee would appreciate receiving further clarifications as to the exact purpose and object of section 109(4) of the Labour Code.

Article 12(2). Regular payment of wages. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government concerning the situation of wage arrears experienced in the national economy. According to official data published by the State Statistical Committee, as of December 2008, the overall wage debt amounted to 20.9 million Tajikistan somoni (approximately US$4.8 million). Wage arrears increased in all spheres of non-material production, especially in the fields of science and health, where unpaid wages increased by 7.3 and 4.8 times, respectively. The sectors which are mostly affected by wage arrears are agriculture (65 per cent of the total amount of the wage debt), industry (15.5 per cent) and construction (6.2 per cent). The Committee requests the Government to provide in its next report up to date information on the nature and extent of the persistent difficulties concerning the timely payment of wages and the measures or initiatives taken in order to settle all outstanding payments. The Committee would appreciate receiving detailed information on the total amount of wage arrears, the sectors of economic activity and number of workers affected, the average delay in the payment of wages and any negotiated timetable for the reimbursement of the wage sums in question.

Article 14(b). Wage statements. The Committee notes that, according to the Government’s report, measures have been taken to give effect to the requirements of this Article of the Convention, but no concrete information has been provided in this regard. The Committee requests the Government to specify how it is ensured in law and practice that workers are informed at the time of each payment of wages of the particulars of their wages for the pay period concerned (for example, by means of payslips).

Part V of the report form. Application in practice. The Committee requests the Government to supply up to date information on the practical application of the Convention, including, for example, extracts of official reports or statistical information on inspection visits and results obtained. It also requests the Government to provide detailed particulars on the evolution of the situation with respect to accumulated wage arrears, both in the public and private sectors and of any concrete measures – legislative, administrative or others – taken to ensure the payment of wages on time and in full.

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

Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes the amendment of sections 108 and 109 of the Labour Code (Act No. 26 of 17 May 2004 (Text No. 337)) which now give effect to Articles 3, 4, 5, 10 and 13 of the Convention.

Articles 1, 6, 7, 9 and 15, subparagraphs (c) and (d), of the Convention. Definition of the term “wages” – Freedom of workers to dispose of their wages – Works stores – Payment for the purpose of obtaining or retaining employment – Sanctions and record-keeping. The Committee notes that the Government’s report is silent on these matters. It therefore once more requests the Government to indicate how effect is given to these Articles of the Convention in law and practice and to transmit any relevant legal texts which may not have been previously provided.

Article 8. Deductions from wages. The Committee notes that under section 109(4) of the Labour Code, as amended, the employer is obliged to make deductions from the wage of the worker at his/her request made in writing in order to carry out non-cash settlements. To the extent that this provision appears to authorize wage deductions with the worker’s consent, the Committee is bound to recall that, under Article 8(1) of the Convention, the types and extent of permissible deductions must be prescribed by national laws or regulations or fixed by collective agreement or arbitration award and not by individual agreements. In this connection, the Committee refers to paragraph 217 of its General Survey of 2003 on the protection of wages, in which it noted that Article 8(1) of the Convention makes exclusive reference to national laws or regulations, collective agreements and arbitration awards as being the only valid legal bases for effecting deductions from wages, the aim being clearly to exclude “private” arrangements which might involve unlawful or abusive deductions to the detriment of the worker’s earnings. The Committee therefore considers that provisions of national legislation which permit deductions by virtue of individual agreements or consent are not compatible with this Article of the Convention. The Committee would appreciate receiving further clarifications as to the exact purpose and object of section 109(4) of the Labour Code.

Article 12, paragraph 2. Regular payment of wages. The Committee notes with concern the latest information provided by the Government concerning the situation of wage arrears experienced in the national economy. According to official data published by the State Statistical Committee, as of December 2008, the overall wage debt amounted to 20.9 million Tajikistan somoni (approximately US$4.8 million). Wage arrears increased in all spheres of non-material production, especially in the fields of science and health, where unpaid wages increased by 7.3 and 4.8 times, respectively. The sectors which are mostly affected by wage arrears are agriculture (65 per cent of the total amount of the wage debt), industry (15.5 per cent) and construction (6.2 per cent). The Committee requests the Government to provide in its next report up to date information on the nature and extent of the persistent difficulties concerning the timely payment of wages and the measures or initiatives taken in order to settle all outstanding payments. The Committee would appreciate receiving detailed information on the total amount of wage arrears, the sectors of economic activity and number of workers affected, the average delay in the payment of wages and any negotiated timetable for the reimbursement of the wage sums in question.

Article 14, subparagraph (b). Wage statements. The Committee notes that, according to the Government’s report, measures have been taken to give effect to the requirements of this Article of the Convention, but no concrete information has been provided in this regard. The Committee requests the Government to specify how it is ensured in law and practice that workers are informed at the time of each payment of wages of the particulars of their wages for the pay period concerned (for example, by means of payslips).

Part V of the report form. Application in practice. The Committee requests the Government to supply up to date information on the practical application of the Convention, including, for example, extracts of official reports or statistical information on inspection visits and results obtained. It also requests the Government to provide detailed particulars on the evolution of the situation with respect to accumulated wage arrears, both in the public and private sectors and of any concrete measures – legislative, administrative or others – taken to ensure the payment of wages on time and in full.

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

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:

Article 1 of the Convention. Further to its previous comment, the Committee notes that the Labour Code contains no general definition of the term “wages” similar to that given in article 27 of the Civil Service Act, which provides that wages of state officials include the basic salary, pay supplements (for instance, allowances for length of service or scientific qualifications), and bonuses based on performance. It recalls that the Convention refers to wages as covering all remuneration or earnings, however designated or calculated, including any allowances or benefits payable to the worker by virtue of a written or unwritten contract of employment. The Committee requests the Government to specify how the term “wages” is construed in national legislation and also to indicate any relevant legislative provisions.

Article 3. The Committee notes that the national labour legislation contains no specific provision requiring wages to be paid only in legal tender and also prohibiting the payment of wages in the form of promissory notes, vouchers or coupons, or in any other form alleged to represent legal tender. The Committee asks the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to give effect to this provision of the Convention.

Article 4. The Committee notes that, under section 101 of the Labour Code, a part of the wage to be agreed upon between the parties may be paid in the form of allowances in kind, but no specific conditions are prescribed for such payment. It therefore requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that: (i) partial payment in kind is only authorized in those industries or occupations in which such payment is customary or desirable; (ii) wage payment in the form of alcoholic drinks or noxious drugs is not permitted in any circumstances; (iii) allowances in kind are appropriate for the personal use and benefit of the worker and his/her family; and (iv) the value attributed to such allowances is fair and reasonable. Moreover, the Committee recalls that according to the terms of the Convention, the conditions and extent of payment in kind should be prescribed by national laws or regulations, collective agreements or arbitration awards and not by individual agreement. The Committee hopes that the Government will take the necessary measures to bring the national legislation into closer conformity with the requirements of the Convention in this respect.

Article 5. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or contemplated to ensure that wages are paid directly to the worker concerned.

Article 6. Recalling that this Article requires an appropriate legislative provision specifically prohibiting employers from limiting in any manner the freedom of workers to dispose of their wages, the Committee again asks the Government to indicate the measures taken or contemplated to give effect to the Convention in this regard.

Article 7. Further to its previous comment, the Committee again requests the Government to indicate whether works stores or services exist in practice, and if so, to specify what measures have been taken to ensure that: (i) workers are free from coercion to use them; (ii) the goods are sold and services provided at fair prices; and (iii) the system is not operated for profit but for the benefit of the workers concerned.

Article 8. The Committee notes that section 109 of the Labour Code allows for deductions from wages to be made with the written consent of the employee. The Committee is bound to recall, however, that under this Article of the Convention, the types and extent of permissible deductions should be prescribed by national laws or regulations or fixed by collective agreements or arbitration awards and not by individual agreements. It therefore requests the Government to consider the adoption of suitable measures to specify the types and extent of deductions permitted with the worker’s written consent.

Article 9. The Committee recalls that the Convention requires in this regard a provision explicitly prohibiting any deduction from wages with a view to ensure a direct or indirect payment made by a worker to an employer for the purpose of obtaining or retaining employment. It asks the Government to indicate the measures taken to give effect to this provision.

Article 10. Further to its previous comment, the Committee again requests the Government to provide information on the conditions and limits prescribed by national legislation for the attachment or assignment of wages.

Article 13. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken to ensure that: (i) wages are paid at or near the workplace; and (ii) payment is not carried out in taverns and other similar establishments, or in retail stores and places of amusement.

Article 14(b). The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that workers are informed at the time of each payment of wages of the particulars of their wages for the pay period concerned.

Article 15(c) and (d). The Committee asks the Government to supply information on the penalties prescribed for any violation of the legislative provisions giving effect to the Convention and also to specify the laws or regulations providing for the maintenance of adequate records in accordance with this Article.

Part V of the report form. The Committee asks the Government to supply detailed information on the practical application of the Convention, including, for example, extracts of official reports or statistical information on inspection visits. It also asks the Government to keep it informed of the evolution of the situation with respect to wage arrears and of any concrete measures taken for the application in practice of Article 12(1) of the Convention concerning the regular payment of wages.

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

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 the adoption of the new Labour Code of 15 May 1997 (Text No. 417) and the Civil Service Act of 13 November 1998 (Text No. 677). It requests the Government to supply more detailed information on the following points.

Article 1 of the Convention. Further to its previous comment, the Committee notes that the new Labour Code contains no general definition of the term "wages" similar to that given in article 27 of the Civil Service Act, which provides that wages of state officials include the basic salary, pay supplements (for instance, allowances for length of service or scientific qualifications), and bonuses based on performance. It recalls that the Convention refers to wages as covering all remuneration or earnings, however designated or calculated, including any allowances or benefits payable to the worker by virtue of a written or unwritten contract of employment. The Committee requests the Government to specify how the term "wages" is construed in national legislation and also to indicate any relevant legislative provisions.

Article 3. The Committee notes that the national labour legislation contains no specific provision requiring wages to be paid only in legal tender and also prohibiting the payment of wages in the form of promissory notes, vouchers or coupons, or in any other form alleged to represent legal tender. The Committee asks the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to give effect to this provision of the Convention.

Article 4. The Committee notes that, under section 101 of the Labour Code, a part of the wage to be agreed upon between the parties may be paid in the form of allowances in kind, but no specific conditions are prescribed for such payment. It therefore requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that: (i) partial payment in kind is only authorized in those industries or occupations in which such payment is customary or desirable; (ii) wage payment in the form of alcoholic drinks or noxious drugs is not permitted in any circumstances; (iii) allowances in kind are appropriate for the personal use and benefit of the worker and his/her family; and (iv) the value attributed to such allowances is fair and reasonable. Moreover, the Committee recalls that according to the terms of the Convention, the conditions and extent of payment in kind should be prescribed by national laws or regulations, collective agreements or arbitration awards and not by individual agreement. The Committee hopes that the Government will take the necessary measures to bring the national legislation into closer conformity with the requirements of the Convention in this respect.

Article 5. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or contemplated to ensure that wages are paid directly to the worker concerned.

Article 6. Recalling that this Article requires an appropriate legislative provision specifically prohibiting employers from limiting in any manner the freedom of workers to dispose of their wages, the Committee again asks the Government to indicate the measures taken or contemplated to give effect to the Convention in this regard.

Article 7. Further to its previous comment, the Committee again requests the Government to indicate whether works stores or services exist in practice, and if so, to specify what measures have been taken to ensure that: (i) workers are free from coercion to use them; (ii) the goods are sold and services provided at fair prices; and (iii) the system is not operated for profit but for the benefit of the workers concerned.

Article 8. The Committee notes that section 109 of the Labour Code allows for deductions from wages to be made with the written consent of the employee. The Committee is bound to recall, however, that under this Article of the Convention, the types and extent of permissible deductions should be prescribed by national laws or regulations or fixed by collective agreements or arbitration awards and not by individual agreements. It therefore requests the Government to consider the adoption of suitable measures to specify the types and extent of deductions permitted with the worker’s written consent.

Article 9. The Committee recalls that the Convention requires in this regard a provision explicitly prohibiting any deduction from wages with a view to ensure a direct or indirect payment made by a worker to an employer for the purpose of obtaining or retaining employment. It asks the Government to indicate the measures taken to give effect to this provision.

Article 10. Further to its previous comment, the Committee again requests the Government to provide information on the conditions and limits prescribed by national legislation for the attachment or assignment of wages.

Article 13. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken to ensure that: (i) wages are paid at or near the workplace; and (ii) payment is not carried out in taverns and other similar establishments, or in retail stores and places of amusement.

Article 14(b). The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that workers are informed at the time of each payment of wages of the particulars of their wages for the pay period concerned.

Article 15(c) and (d). The Committee asks the Government to supply information on the penalties prescribed for any violation of the legislative provisions giving effect to the Convention and also to specify the laws or regulations providing for the maintenance of adequate records in accordance with this Article.

Part V of the report form. The Committee asks the Government to supply detailed information on the practical application of the Convention, including, for example, extracts of official reports or statistical information on inspection visits. It also asks the Government to keep it informed of the evolution of the situation with respect to wage arrears and of any concrete measures taken for the application in practice of Article 12(1) of the Convention concerning the regular payment of wages.

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

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 the adoption of the new Labour Code of 15 May 1997 (Text No. 417) and the Civil Service Act of 13 November 1998 (Text No. 677). It requests the Government to supply more detailed information on the following points.

Article 1 of the Convention. Further to its previous comment, the Committee notes that the new Labour Code contains no general definition of the term "wages" similar to that given in article 27 of the Civil Service Act, which provides that wages of state officials include the basic salary, pay supplements (for instance, allowances for length of service or scientific qualifications), and bonuses based on performance. It recalls that the Convention refers to wages as covering all remuneration or earnings, however designated or calculated, including any allowances or benefits payable to the worker by virtue of a written or unwritten contract of employment. The Committee requests the Government to specify how the term "wages" is construed in national legislation and also to indicate any relevant legislative provisions.

Article 3. The Committee notes that the national labour legislation contains no specific provision requiring wages to be paid only in legal tender and also prohibiting the payment of wages in the form of promissory notes, vouchers or coupons, or in any other form alleged to represent legal tender. The Committee asks the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to give effect to this provision of the Convention.

Article 4. The Committee notes that, under section 101 of the Labour Code, a part of the wage to be agreed upon between the parties may be paid in the form of allowances in kind, but no specific conditions are prescribed for such payment. It therefore requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that: (i) partial payment in kind is only authorized in those industries or occupations in which such payment is customary or desirable; (ii) wage payment in the form of alcoholic drinks or noxious drugs is not permitted in any circumstances; (iii) allowances in kind are appropriate for the personal use and benefit of the worker and his/her family; and (iv) the value attributed to such allowances is fair and reasonable. Moreover, the Committee recalls that according to the terms of the Convention, the conditions and extent of payment in kind should be prescribed by national laws or regulations, collective agreements or arbitration awards and not by individual agreement. The Committee hopes that the Government will take the necessary measures to bring the national legislation into closer conformity with the requirements of the Convention in this respect.

Article 5. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or contemplated to ensure that wages are paid directly to the worker concerned.

Article 6. Recalling that this Article requires an appropriate legislative provision specifically prohibiting employers from limiting in any manner the freedom of workers to dispose of their wages, the Committee again asks the Government to indicate the measures taken or contemplated to give effect to the Convention in this regard.

Article 7. Further to its previous comment, the Committee again requests the Government to indicate whether works stores or services exist in practice, and if so, to specify what measures have been taken to ensure that: (i) workers are free from coercion to use them; (ii) the goods are sold and services provided at fair prices; and (iii) the system is not operated for profit but for the benefit of the workers concerned.

Article 8. The Committee notes that section 109 of the Labour Code allows for deductions from wages to be made with the written consent of the employee. The Committee is bound to recall, however, that under this Article of the Convention, the types and extent of permissible deductions should be prescribed by national laws or regulations or fixed by collective agreements or arbitration awards and not by individual agreements. It therefore requests the Government to consider the adoption of suitable measures to specify the types and extent of deductions permitted with the worker’s written consent.

Article 9. The Committee recalls that the Convention requires in this regard a provision explicitly prohibiting any deduction from wages with a view to ensure a direct or indirect payment made by a worker to an employer for the purpose of obtaining or retaining employment. It asks the Government to indicate the measures taken to give effect to this provision.

Article 10. Further to its previous comment, the Committee again requests the Government to provide information on the conditions and limits prescribed by national legislation for the attachment or assignment of wages.

Article 13. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken to ensure that: (i) wages are paid at or near the workplace; and (ii) payment is not carried out in taverns and other similar establishments, or in retail stores and places of amusement.

Article 14(b). The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that workers are informed at the time of each payment of wages of the particulars of their wages for the pay period concerned.

Article 15(c) and (d). The Committee asks the Government to supply information on the penalties prescribed for any violation of the legislative provisions giving effect to the Convention and also to specify the laws or regulations providing for the maintenance of adequate records in accordance with this Article.

Part V of the report form. The Committee asks the Government to supply detailed information on the practical application of the Convention, including, for example, extracts of official reports or statistical information on inspection visits. It also asks the Government to keep it informed of the evolution of the situation with respect to wage arrears and of any concrete measures taken for the application in practice of Article 12(1) of the Convention concerning the regular payment of wages.

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

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 the new Labour Code of 15 May 1997 (Text No. 417) and the Civil Service Act of 13 November 1998 (Text No. 677). It requests the Government to supply more detailed information on the following points.

Article 1 of the Convention. Further to its previous comment, the Committee notes that the new Labour Code contains no general definition of the term "wages" similar to that given in article 27 of the Civil Service Act, which provides that wages of state officials include the basic salary, pay supplements (for instance, allowances for length of service or scientific qualifications), and bonuses based on performance. It recalls that the Convention refers to wages as covering all remuneration or earnings, however designated or calculated, including any allowances or benefits payable to the worker by virtue of a written or unwritten contract of employment. The Committee requests the Government to specify how the term "wages" is construed in national legislation and also to indicate any relevant legislative provisions.

Article 3. The Committee notes that the national labour legislation contains no specific provision requiring wages to be paid only in legal tender and also prohibiting the payment of wages in the form of promissory notes, vouchers or coupons, or in any other form alleged to represent legal tender. The Committee asks the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to give effect to this provision of the Convention.

Article 4. The Committee notes that, under section 101 of the Labour Code, a part of the wage to be agreed upon between the parties may be paid in the form of allowances in kind, but no specific conditions are prescribed for such payment. It therefore requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that: (i) partial payment in kind is only authorized in those industries or occupations in which such payment is customary or desirable; (ii) wage payment in the form of alcoholic drinks or noxious drugs is not permitted in any circumstances; (iii) allowances in kind are appropriate for the personal use and benefit of the worker and his/her family; and (iv) the value attributed to such allowances is fair and reasonable. Moreover, the Committee recalls that according to the terms of the Convention, the conditions and extent of payment in kind should be prescribed by national laws or regulations, collective agreements or arbitration awards and not by individual agreement. The Committee hopes that the Government will take the necessary measures to bring the national legislation into closer conformity with the requirements of the Convention in this respect.

Article 5. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or contemplated to ensure that wages are paid directly to the worker concerned.

Article 6. Recalling that this Article requires an appropriate legislative provision specifically prohibiting employers from limiting in any manner the freedom of workers to dispose of their wages, the Committee again asks the Government to indicate the measures taken or contemplated to give effect to the Convention in this regard.

Article 7. Further to its previous comment, the Committee again requests the Government to indicate whether works stores or services exist in practice, and if so, to specify what measures have been taken to ensure that: (i) workers are free from coercion to use them; (ii) the goods are sold and services provided at fair prices; and (iii) the system is not operated for profit but for the benefit of the workers concerned.

Article 8. The Committee notes that section 109 of the Labour Code allows for deductions from wages to be made with the written consent of the employee. The Committee is bound to recall, however, that under this Article of the Convention, the types and extent of permissible deductions should be prescribed by national laws or regulations or fixed by collective agreements or arbitration awards and not by individual agreements. It therefore requests the Government to consider the adoption of suitable measures to specify the types and extent of deductions permitted with the worker’s written consent.

Article 9. The Committee recalls that the Convention requires in this regard a provision explicitly prohibiting any deduction from wages with a view to ensure a direct or indirect payment made by a worker to an employer for the purpose of obtaining or retaining employment. It asks the Government to indicate the measures taken to give effect to this provision.

Article 10. Further to its previous comment, the Committee again requests the Government to provide information on the conditions and limits prescribed by national legislation for the attachment or assignment of wages.

Article 13. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken to ensure that: (i) wages are paid at or near the workplace; and (ii) payment is not carried out in taverns and other similar establishments, or in retail stores and places of amusement.

Article 14(b). The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that workers are informed at the time of each payment of wages of the particulars of their wages for the pay period concerned.

Article 15(c) and (d). The Committee asks the Government to supply information on the penalties prescribed for any violation of the legislative provisions giving effect to the Convention and also to specify the laws or regulations providing for the maintenance of adequate records in accordance with this Article.

Part V of the report form. The Committee asks the Government to supply detailed information on the practical application of the Convention, including, for example, extracts of official reports or statistical information on inspection visits. It also asks the Government to keep it informed of the evolution of the situation with respect to wage arrears and of any concrete measures taken for the application in practice of Article 12(1) of the Convention concerning the regular payment of wages.

[The Government is asked to reply in detail to the present comments in 2003.]

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

The Committee notes the Government’s report as well as the adoption of the new Labour Code of 15 May 1997 (Text No. 417) and the Civil Service Act of 13 November 1998 (Text No. 677). It requests the Government to supply more detailed information on the following points.

Article 1 of the Convention. Further to its previous comment, the Committee notes that the new Labour Code contains no general definition of the term "wages" similar to that given in article 27 of the Civil Service Act, which provides that wages of state officials include the basic salary, pay supplements (for instance, allowances for length of service or scientific qualifications), and bonuses based on performance. It recalls that the Convention refers to wages as covering all remuneration or earnings, however designated or calculated, including any allowances or benefits payable to the worker by virtue of a written or unwritten contract of employment. The Committee requests the Government to specify how the term "wages" is construed in national legislation and also to indicate any relevant legislative provisions.

Article 3. The Committee notes that the national labour legislation contains no specific provision requiring wages to be paid only in legal tender and also prohibiting the payment of wages in the form of promissory notes, vouchers or coupons, or in any other form alleged to represent legal tender. The Committee asks the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to give effect to this provision of the Convention.

Article 4. The Committee notes that, under section 101 of the Labour Code, a part of the wage to be agreed upon between the parties may be paid in the form of allowances in kind, but no specific conditions are prescribed for such payment. It therefore requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that: (i) partial payment in kind is only authorized in those industries or occupations in which such payment is customary or desirable; (ii) wage payment in the form of alcoholic drinks or noxious drugs is not permitted in any circumstances; (iii) allowances in kind are appropriate for the personal use and benefit of the worker and his/her family; and (iv) the value attributed to such allowances is fair and reasonable. Moreover, the Committee recalls that according to the terms of the Convention, the conditions and extent of payment in kind should be prescribed by national laws or regulations, collective agreements or arbitration awards and not by individual agreement. The Committee hopes that the Government will take the necessary measures to bring the national legislation into closer conformity with the requirements of the Convention in this respect.

Article 5. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or contemplated to ensure that wages are paid directly to the worker concerned.

Article 6. Recalling that this Article requires an appropriate legislative provision specifically prohibiting employers from limiting in any manner the freedom of workers to dispose of their wages, the Committee again asks the Government to indicate the measures taken or contemplated to give effect to the Convention in this regard.

Article 7. Further to its previous comment, the Committee again requests the Government to indicate whether works stores or services exist in practice, and if so, to specify what measures have been taken to ensure that: (i) workers are free from coercion to use them; (ii) the goods are sold and services provided at fair prices; and (iii) the system is not operated for profit but for the benefit of the workers concerned.

Article 8. The Committee notes that section 109 of the Labour Code allows for deductions from wages to be made with the written consent of the employee. The Committee is bound to recall, however, that under this Article of the Convention, the types and extent of permissible deductions should be prescribed by national laws or regulations or fixed by collective agreements or arbitration awards and not by individual agreements. It therefore requests the Government to consider the adoption of suitable measures to specify the types and extent of deductions permitted with the worker’s written consent.

Article 9. The Committee recalls that the Convention requires in this regard a provision explicitly prohibiting any deduction from wages with a view to ensure a direct or indirect payment made by a worker to an employer for the purpose of obtaining or retaining employment. It asks the Government to indicate the measures taken to give effect to this provision.

Article 10. Further to its previous comment, the Committee again requests the Government to provide information on the conditions and limits prescribed by national legislation for the attachment or assignment of wages.

Article 13. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken to ensure that: (i) wages are paid at or near the workplace; and (ii) payment is not carried out in taverns and other similar establishments, or in retail stores and places of amusement.

Article 14(b). The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that workers are informed at the time of each payment of wages of the particulars of their wages for the pay period concerned.

Article 15(c) and (d). The Committee asks the Government to supply information on the penalties prescribed for any violation of the legislative provisions giving effect to the Convention and also to specify the laws or regulations providing for the maintenance of adequate records in accordance with this Article.

Part V of the report form. The Committee asks the Government to supply detailed information on the practical application of the Convention, including, for example, extracts of official reports or statistical information on inspection visits. It also asks the Government to keep it informed of the evolution of the situation with respect to wage arrears and of any concrete measures taken for the application in practice of Article 12(1) of the Convention concerning the regular payment of wages.

[The Government is asked to report in detail in 2002.]

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

The Committee notes the information supplied by the Government in its report. It requests the Government to continue to indicate any change in the legislation which gives effect to the provisions of the Convention. Furthermore, the Committee requests the Government to supply more detailed information on the following points.

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the definition of "wages" in the national legislation which protects payment of wages. It also requests it to supply information on special measures, if any, concerning protection of wages for specific categories of workers.

Article 6. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken in order to prohibit employers from limiting the freedom of the worker to dispose of his or her wages.

Article 7. The Committee requests the Government to indicate if in practice there exist works stores or services established by the employer and, if there are any, to provide information on the measures taken to apply the provisions of this Article.

Article 10. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the conditions and limits prescribed by the national legislation for wages to be attached or assigned.

Article 11. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken to ensure that in the event of the bankruptcy or judicial liquidation of an undertaking, workers shall be treated as privileged creditors in regard to their wages in accordance with this Article.

Article 15(c). The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the penalties prescribed for any violation of the legislative provisions giving effect to this Convention.

Finally, the Committee notes the Government's statement that during the period in question (to the end of June 1994), there have been certain difficulties in applying the Convention because of late payment of wages in several branches amounting at times to several months. It notes that the Government considers that this situation is explained by the political climate of the country and the present economic problems and that it is taking measures to overcome these difficulties, in particular, measures to improve the general economic situation and for Tajikistan to become a member of the rouble area. The Committee recalls that regular payment of wages is one of the principles laid down in this Convention (Article 12), and requests the Government to continue to supply information on this matter.