SAVAR: As the country’s export industry went into a tailspin for labour unrest, the owners’ side Monday appealed for peace and held out a promise that the workers’ wages could be further raised in two years provided the gas-electricity situation improved.

The assurance came from Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) president Salam Murshedi. He called upon the workers to play a responsible role in protecting the garment industry—their bread-earner.

He said even the new wage structure could not be implemented in many factories, but they were forced to agree to implement it. “The implementation of the minimum wage declared is a big challenge now.”

He was speaking at a function of Vertex Group in Savar area—not far from the scene of massive demonstrations that led to lockouts in all the factories in Ashulia hub.

The BGMEA president handed over a cheque for Tk 100,000 to the widow of Late Humayun Kabir, who died in a heart attack in the Vertex industry. Managing Director of Vertex Group MO Gani Talukder was present on the occasion.

He noted that the garment industry started its journey with only an export earning of 12,000 US dollars and now the export earnings rose to 12 billion dollars.

“Now conspiracy is being hatched with the pride industry of the country,” the industry leader said, without elaborating on the allegation.

Murshedi called upon the government to foil the conspiracy through joint efforts of workers and owners of the industry.

BDST/1640 HRS, August 2, 2010