Alliance workers' compensation doubled

Alliance for Bangladesh Worker Safety has decided to increase the compensation package by twofold for those workers who lost their jobs because of overhauling of their factories to meet global safety standard.

The alliance is an initiative launched by North American apparel retailers and brands to ensure safety of Bangladesh workers.

Alliance announced the decision in a media statement published on its website.

Following the horrifying Rana Plaza debacle, Alliance was formed to promote labour rights and workplace safety in Bangladesh’s garment factories that make clothes for North American brands.

The new package includes four months of wages instead of earlier package of two months’ wages.

Alliance with the assistance of its members raised a $5 million Worker Support Fund.

Paying the compensation package to the laid-off workers commenced in May with factory owners paying half of the compensation.

The statement says Alliance has so far compensated more than 1000 workers and closed down five factories for revamping following detection of structural faults during its inspection.

“Ensuring that no garment worker has to put herself at risk to earn a living is our top priority, but we believe protecting and supporting workers must go hand in hand,” said Ellen Tauscher, Alliance Independent Chair and former U.S. Congresswoman.

She also said, “We are committed to ensuring as factory safety improvements are made, workers are not expected to pay the price.”

Alliance's Bangladesh managing director Rabin Mesbah confirmed the decision about compensation hike and told bdnews24.com, "The compensation package will be disbursed through BRAC."