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

Labour Inspection Convention, 1947 (No. 81) - Paraguay (Ratification: 1967)

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. Nevertheless, with reference to its previous observation, the Committee notes the information supplied by the Government to the Conference Committee in 1992, and the draft resolution relating to the application of Article 13 of the Convention.

Article 13 of the Convention. The Committee notes with interest the draft resolution referred to above which is intended to ensure the application in law of this Article of the Convention. The Committee also notes that, after the period of time given to the employer to remedy the defects found in a first inspection, a second inspection is carried out, and if the situation is still unsatisfactory sanctions are imposed by means of administrative resolution. These sanctions can also be applied in cases of immediate danger and include the possibility of withdrawing the operating licence of the establishment, as provided, according to the information supplied by the Government, in the Health Code. It is also stated that the most representative organizations of workers and employers were consulted in the preparation of a technical manual containing standards concerning conditions in the workplace and that this manual will be mandatory. The Committee hopes that the draft resolution will be adopted in the near future and that the Government will be able to supply a copy, with the technical manual and the Health Code, with its next report. The Committee also trusts that the Government will supply information on its application in practice.

Articles 10, 16, 20 and 21. The Committee notes that, although the number of inspectors is still insufficient, the Ministry of Labour will in 1993 present a request to the Ministry of Finance for a substantial increase in the number of inspectors and an improvement in the conditions necessary for the effective performance of their duties, which are to be extended. The Government also states that it was taking the necessary measures to remedy the lack of information, with the assistance of the ILO. Furthermore, it indicates that it is analysing the possibility of requesting technical and financial assistance from the ILO in order to evaluate the national situation with respect to working conditions and occupational safety and health. Finally, the Committee notes that Decree No. 43, of 31 March 1992, establishes increases in the fines applicable for non-compliance with labour provisions. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would supply information in its next report on any progress achieved with regard to the above measures. It also recalls the importance that it attaches to the publication of annual reports on the inspection services containing all the information referred to in Article 21 and trusts that the Government will be able to publish such reports and transmit copies of them rapidly to the Office.