ABU DHABI // Pensions, salaries and workplace support for Emiratis will be topics of discussion at the FNC this week.
After a short study, an FNC committee has passed a report on working conditions for nationals in fishing and farming.
Although the report has not been made public, council members have often summoned the Minister of Environment and Water, Dr Rashid bin Fahad, to discuss the state of farms hit by drought.
They have also protested against stringent laws which have constrained the activities of fishermen.
During the session, members will question other ministers.
Ahmed Al Mansouri (Dubai), who owns a museum of UAE artefacts in Dubai, will question Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development, on the possibility of opening a national history museum.
Mr Al Mansoori will also question Obaid Al Tayer, Minister of State for Financial Affairs and deputy head of the Pensions Authority, about the council’s recommendation to amend a pensions law.
The council has repeatedly called for reforms to allow earlier retirement for women and higher pensions for Emiratis, particularly those who retired before 2008 and receive lower payments than those who retired after that date.
Sultan Al Shamsi (Ajman) will question the minister about the salaries of Emiratis working in the federal Government under Grades 10 to 14.
Also scheduled to attend is the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak.
Ali Al Nuaimi (Ajman) will question him on academic guidance offered to students at UAE University, while Dr Mona Al Bahar (Dubai) will ask Sheikh Hamdan about introducing physical education as a major at universities.
The last minister scheduled to attend is Dr Abdullah Al Nuaimi, Minister of Public Works and head of the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme.
Hamad Al Rahoomi (Dubai) will question him on how the programme plans to tackle the council’s earlier recommendations, most of which have been approved by the Cabinet.
The public session will be held in the FNC headquarters in Abu Dhabi from 9am.
osalem@thenational.ae
