GCCI BULLETIN JUNE-JULY 2020
14TH AUGUST 2020
Dear members,
Another two months have passed since I communicated with you via our bulletin. And I have to admit that along with the worsening of the Covid19 situation in Goa, the economy has also gone further downhill during this time. With no signs of demand increasing nor any sort of sizable relief coming from the Government, the times are getting harder for Trade & Industry.
Probably for the first time in the history of GCCI, we had to have an extremely curtailed AGM given various restrictions in force. And I am truly grateful to all our members for showing enormous restraint in these times. I am sure that the next AGM will be a much bigger and grander affair with a public function etc. My AGM speech is available on the GCCI website hence would not like to be repetitive with comments.
Given the various restrictions, we at the GCCI have not been able to conduct any sizable program during this time although we have been very active with backstage works taking up various issues with the Government.
Our various committees have been meeting and putting forth different suggestions for the Government but unfortunately, I have to state that there has been no respite.
I have to reiterate here that the State Government has failed to give any sort of relief to trade and Industry despite various joint representations made along with other associations and numerous meetings held at various levels of Government. However, we shall keep trying as the situation of the economy is not showing any signs of revival shortly.
I would especially like to express my disappointment concerning the amendment on retrenchment compensation. GCCI had appreciated the State Government’s efforts to simplify the labour laws to facilitate ‘ease of doing business’ by amending the Contract Labour (Regulation & Abolition) Act, 1970 and the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947.
However, GCCI along with CII, Goa Chapter and GSIA in a strong representation to the Government had said that amendment of Section 25F: ‘increasing retrenchment compensation to workmen from 15 to 45 days would be severely detrimental to the industry. We h a d categorically stated that it was ill-advised and would be counterproductive not only to the industry but would discourage new investments into Goa. It is distressing, particularly coming at this time and when even most bigger states and even the Centre have maintained the existing rate of 15 days.
As an industry body, GCCI has taken some steps which will impact Chamber’s finances but help our members in these difficult times. Waiving off entrance fees for new members, waiving off certificate of origin charges, Free listing in our publications are some of the actions taken to help our members. This is a small gesture by GCCI showing solidarity with our members.
A major decision taken by Managing Committee to help promote entrepreneurship, especially in the food takeaway business has been highly appreciated by all. Although this has an impact on the organized sector, the maturity & humane gesture shown by hotels and restaurants who are our members too is appreciable. Despite having an impact on their business, they are supporting our cause of promoting entrepreneurship. My sincere gratitude to the Restaurant Owners’ Association members for standing by the society in these difficult times.
In conclusion, let’s all pray and hope that the Covid19 situation improves soon & we all are back on track. Till then stay Safe & Stay Healthy.
Best Regards
Manoj M. Caculo
ABOUT GGCI
Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) is Goa’s premier non-profit business, support-services and networking organization. We represent and liaise with SME’s, Corporate Organisations and Government bodies.
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