The discussion addressed adjustments to the draft law on the status of foreign citizens in Russia. The adjustments remove quotas for attracting foreign workers and propose a transition to a license system. In the view of the trade unions, this would exclude trade union partners. According to Mr Shmakov, it would be expedient for a trilateral regional commission consisting of the regional government, trade union and regional workers’ association to participate in making decisions about issuing work licenses.
The meeting also addressed the problem pertaining to the transition of labour regulation supervision from federal agencies to the regions. According to Mr Shnamov, this will lead to deteriorating working conditions.
The President stressed that the opinion of the trade unions will certainly be taken into account and promised to pass the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Russia chairman’s comments on to the Cabinet.