Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2008, published 98th ILC session (2009)

Tripartite Consultation (International Labour Standards) Convention, 1976 (No. 144) - Uruguay (Ratification: 1987)

Effective tripartite consultations. In its 2007 observation, the Committee noted the observations of the Inter-Union Assembly of Workers–National Convention of Workers (PIT–CNT) and trusted that the Government and the social partners would examine measures to ensure that initiatives are taken to give satisfaction to all the parties concerned in the consultations required by the Convention. In the report received in September 2008, the Government confirms that the examination of the possible ratification of Conventions Nos 102, 135, 158, 173, 187 and 188 was continued. Furthermore, with a view to examining the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, a special commission had been established and specific information was awaited which was required from other authorities competent in maritime labour matters.

With regard to the operation of the Tripartite Working Group, a restructuring plan was submitted in the first meeting in 2008. Ordinary monthly meetings and extraordinary meetings were proposed where required by the themes or issues to be addressed. Meetings were to be convened five days in advance. The agenda was to be pre-established and new items could only be included with the unanimous support of the participants. The issues addressed would be covered by a double discussion. During the first discussion, an issue would be presented and discussed. At the next meeting, following a further discussion, a decision would be taken. The Government undertakes to transmit the report of the meeting to any of the sectors which did not attend. Failure to attend a meeting in which a decision was to be adopted would not prevent its adoption. Participants in meetings need to have a position determined when the issue has already been addressed in an earlier meeting. Decisions are adopted by majority, unless consensus or unanimity is achieved, with those who vote against or abstain being able to express their position, which should be recorded in the message sent to the legislative authority. The Committee notes with interest these measures for improving the application of the Convention and trusts that indications will be provided in the next report on the manner in which consultations have been held on international labour standards as required by the Convention. The Committee would also be grateful for information on the action taken as a result of proposals made for the ratification or implementation of Conventions and Recommendations examined by the Tripartite Working Group.