Qatar: Study finds construction workers' wages insufficient

A study by Qatar’s National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) has revealed that the wages and living conditions of workers in the construction sector are far from fair and adequate.

The conditions of unskilled labourers in the construction sector found the wages paid to expatriate workers was not sufficient to sustain them and their families back home, The Gulf Times reported.

One-third of the 1,114 labourers surveyed said that they never received their wages on time.

The report also found that more than 40% of workers were accommodated in shared rooms with six beds, while around 30% have to share one toilet.

Their living quarters, toilets and other amenities did not comply with standard regulations on health and hygiene.

The findings are in direct contradiction to many aspects of the labour law, according to the report.

The study also asked workers and Qatari sponsors for their views on the current sponsorship system.

The NHRC report concludes with a recommendation that wages be raised to keep pace with the prevailing index of prices and should be commensurate to the work done by the employee.

It also highlights the need to improve the living conditions, amenities and the medical care facilities provided to the expatriate workforce.

In addition, the study recommends abolishing certain powers held by sponsors, in matters such as deporting an employee without valid reasons and legal procedures and withholding payments lawfully due to the employee.

Date: 7 August 2011