The Deputy Minister of Employment, Labour, and Social Security, Lansana Mohamed Dumbuya has announced the withdrawal of the Work Permit Regulation 2024 from Parliament for revisions. This move aims to strengthen the regulation and ensure its alignment with the Work Permit Act 2023.

Explaining the decision, Dumbuya emphasized that the withdrawal is not due to flaws in the legislation or pressure from employers. Instead, it was identified that the initial draft did not adequately address the interests of certain work classifications and groups.

“While our earlier proposal may have missed a few steps, it was not entirely faulty,” Dumbuya assured. He acknowledged that further analysis revealed a lack of inclusivity in the initial discussions, particularly regarding the representation of various employers such as mining companies and industries.

The deputy minister also highlighted inconsistencies in charges imposed on different employers, raising concerns about fairness and potential negative impacts. He stressed the ministry’s commitment to rectifying these issues within a week and resubmitting a revised, balanced regulation to parliament.

“When corrected, this regulation will contribute to President Bio’s goal of employing 500,000 Sierra Leoneans,” Dumbuya affirmed. He reiterated the ministry’s commitment to open dialogue with all stakeholders, including employers, to reach a consensus on equitable charges.