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

Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105) - Bahamas (Ratification: 1976)

The Committee notes the Government's report.

Article 1(c) and (d) of the Convention. In comments made for many years, the Committee has referred to sections 128, 130 and 134 of the 1976 Merchant Shipping Act, under which various breaches of labour discipline are punishable with imprisonment (involving an obligation to work) and deserting seafarers may be forcibly returned on board ship; and sections 72 and 73 of the Industrial Relations Act (Official Gazette, Supplement Part I, 10 September 1970, No 36), under which participation in a strike is punishable with imprisonment, involving an obligation to perform labour. The Committee notes the Government's indication in the report that the abovementioned sections of the Merchant Shipping Act have not been amended. As regards the abovementioned provisions of the Industrial Relations Act, the Government states that no such provisions have been applied for participation in an industrial action, that 1998 and early 1999 were typical examples of high industrial action activity and no repressive measures have been used against any group of participants. While noting this information, the Committee reiterates its hope that the necessary measures will be taken to amend or repeal the abovementioned provisions in order to bring the legislation into conformity with the Convention. It asks the Government to indicate, in its next report, the progress made in this regard and to supply a copy of the latest consolidated text of the Industrial Relations Act.

The Committee is addressing a more detailed request on the matter directly to the Government.