Beirut:Labor Minister Dr. Mohammad Haidar conducted a series of meetings on Friday to address issues related to social security coverage, foreign labor regulation, and economic challenges in various sectors.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, Dr. Haidar met with a delegation from the Beirut Order of Dentists, led by Dr. Ziad Zeidan, to discuss the extension of National Social Security Fund (NSSF) coverage to include basic dental care and treatment, with a particular focus on children. The minister committed to forwarding the proposal to the NSSF Board of Directors for their evaluation and decision at the earliest opportunity.
In another meeting, Dr. Haidar engaged with Ghanaian Ambassador to Lebanon Solomon Barimah during a courtesy visit. Their discussions revolved around the regulation of Ghanaian employment in Lebanon and the potential for a bilateral memorandum of understanding between the labor ministries of both countries to protect the rights of workers and employers.
Dr. Haidar also convened with representatives from the Federation of Bakery and Oven Syndicates in Lebanon, alongside officials from the International Labour Organization (ILO), the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The discussions focused on supporting the bakery sector by improving the regulation of foreign labor, particularly Syrian workers, as a strategy to stabilize bread prices and alleviate financial burdens on consumers amidst Lebanon's challenging economic situation.
In a separate meeting with Ghobeiry Mayor Ahmad Al-Khansa, the minister explored cooperation between the ministry and the municipality. They discussed conducting a labor market study aimed at encouraging Lebanese citizens to pursue employment in diverse sectors.
Dr. Haidar also received a delegation from the Tripoli Vegetable Market Workers' Syndicate, led by Shadi Al-Sayyed, to examine the obstacles facing the sector. Additionally, he listened to the demands and concerns of a delegation representing on-call employees at the Tripoli Water Authority, with Al-Sayyed present at the meeting.