JAAF refutes PHI Union claims

• Says members are committed to following guidelines to ensure safety of employees, communities at large

The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) yesterday categorically denied claims by the Public Health Inspectors (PHI) Union President that the apparel sector has been utilising workers from isolated areas in their factories, reiterating its commitment to following Health Ministry guidelines to ensure the “safety of our employees and the communities at large”.

“We refer to a statement made by Upul Rohana in his capacity as the President of the PHI’s Union that was on national television a few days ago. He alleges that the apparel sector has been using employees from isolated areas to work in apparel plants. As the apex body for the industry, we wish to strongly refute this statement as the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health very clearly indicate that employees in isolated areas cannot be brought in for employment,” JAAF Secretary General Tuli Cooray said in a statement.

“JAAF and its members are committed to following the guidelines issued by the authorities in preparing workplaces for employment and ensuring the safety of our employees and the communities at large.”

JAAF said it was regrettable that this statement was made by Rohana without any evidence to support the same.