Senator Dillon Calls For Job Creation To Restore Dignity For Liberians

Senator Dillon Calls For Job Creation To Restore Dignity For Liberians

MONROVIA, Nov. 19 (LINA) – In a significant stride to foster accountability and national progress, Montserrado County Senator Abraham Darius Dillon has called for the restoration of dignity among Liberians through the creation of jobs, particularly for young people who are eligible for employment.

Speaking Monday November 18, 2024, on State Radio, Senator Dillon emphasized that providing jobs to unemployed Liberians is a crucial step in addressing systemic issues, including the exploitation of young people by politicians and influential individuals, and argued that unemployment has left many vulnerable, forcing them to depend on these figures for survival.

“Unemployment has pushed our young people to be teleguided by politicians and other influential figures. Restoring their dignity through employment is critical,” Senator Dillon stated. He further urged the government to implement labor laws that will ensure that Liberians receive fair benefits, particularly in the private sector, to help alleviate poverty.

The Montserrado County Senator expressed concern over the unequal treatment of Liberians in the labor market, highlighting that foreign nationals often receive better wages than their Liberian counterparts for doing the same work in private institutions operating within the country.

"In our hearing with the Labor Minister about Western Cluster, it was disclosed that the company employs 55 foreign drivers and 45 Liberian drivers. Both groups operate the same heavy-duty trucks, work the same hours, and perform identical tasks. Yet, the foreign workers earn between $2,000 to $3,000 monthly, while Liberians are paid just $600," he lamented.

The Montserrado Senator also called on legislators to advocate for policies that empower Liberians through fair labor practices and proposed that foreign workers’ permits shouldn’t be renewed when they expire, particularly in cases where qualified Liberians can be trained to assume those roles.

He stressed the need for legislators to work closely with the executive branch to prioritize these labor issues, which he believes is essential for Liberia’s growth and development.

Senator Dillon noted that employed young people are more likely to hold government officials accountable, reducing the culture of dependency.

Using a metaphor, Senator Dillon illustrated the societal impact of unemployment: “Imagine being in a social gathering where only one person can afford to buy drinks. Even if their joke is not funny, you feel compelled to laugh to stay in their good graces. This dependency culture must end, and it starts with providing employment opportunities.”

He urged the Senate to continue its commitment to addressing labor injustices, ensuring that Liberians are prioritized in employment and treated fairly. He reaffirmed his belief that job creation is vital not only to restore dignity but also to foster accountability and national progress.

"Liberians deserve better," he concluded, urging immediate action to address these challenges.