Title: Labor Minister’s Vote of Confidence Hinges on Key Social Welfare Commitments
In the lead-up to a critical parliamentary vote, a prominent labor activist has framed the debate surrounding the Minister of Labor, highlighting both the minister’s commitments and the pressing social welfare issues at stake.
A Call for Tripartite Focus
Karimi, a labor activist, acknowledged that parliamentary oversight and interpellation are legitimate legal processes. However, he expressed a hope that during the proceedings against the Minister of Labor, parliamentarians would adhere to the principle of tripartism and pay close attention to the concerns raised by workers’ organizations.
Wages, Housing, and Political Timing
The activist voiced a key expectation from the labor community: that the Supreme Labor Council will address the vital issues of wage increases and housing allowances for workers. He cautioned, however, that the current motion to interpellate the minister risks sidelining these critical economic discussions. Karimi further noted that the minister’s pledged projects in housing and welfare services require time to be implemented, and he should be given the opportunity to see them through.
Questioning the Motives
Stressing a shared commitment to tripartite dialogue, Karimi characterized the timing of the interpellation as possessing a “political aspect,” suggesting it is an unwarranted move against the minister.
The Core Issue: Retirees’ Insurance
A central point of concern raised was the state of retirees’ supplementary insurance. Karimi highlighted that premiums have been deducted from retirees’ pensions for several months without being transferred to the relevant insurance company. He insisted that any new contract must include an increase in the ceiling for supplementary insurance services.
Healthcare Access Challenges
The activist also expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of contracts between some private hospitals and basic and supplementary insurance providers. This situation forces retirees and workers to pay high initial admission fees that are beyond their financial means, creating a significant barrier to healthcare access.
A Warning on Pension Delays
Concluding his remarks, Karimi issued a stark warning, stating that even a one-month delay in pension payments could create fundamental problems for the government. He called for the settlement of the government’s outstanding debts to the Social Security Organization to ensure stability.