Industrial Relations Act of 2008

The Industrial Relations Act of 2008 was passed by the Majlis-E-Shoora (Parliament) in Pakistan to regulate the formation of labor unions and provide a mechanism for employers and employees to settle disputes.

Applicability

The Industrial Relations Act of 2008 applies to anyone working in Pakistan with the exception of certain government employees, emergency services personnel and employees at a state-run hospital or health care facility.

Trade Unions

The Industrial Relations Act of 2008 specifically gives workers and employers the right to associate with any organized trade union or to form a trade union without requiring prior authorization. The act also sets out the procedures by which a trade union may register its existence under the act.The registrar will have the authority to decide which trade union shall officially be certified for purposes of collective bargaining for each industry.

National Industrial Relations Commission

The National Industrial Relations Commission is also created under the act. The seven members of the commission are appointed by the federal government. The commission is charged with promoting and registering trade unions, settling disputes and prosecuting offenses under the act.

References

• Scribd: Industrial Relations Act 2008