Shura committee lauds Cabinet’s decision on stimulus package beneficiaries

TDT | Manama

The Shura Council’s Financial and Economic Affairs Committee has lauded the directives of His Royal Highness the Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier, to increase the number of beneficiaries from the economic and financial stimulus package, taking advantage of the financing programmes of the Labour Fund Tamkeen.

Made during the weekly Cabinet session, the decision paves the way for supporting some segments that have been affected by the current situation resulting from the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19), including taxi and bus drivers, as well as driving instructors.

The staff of kindergartens and nurseries will also be paid full salaries according to certain conditions. The Shura Council’s committee stressed that the Cabinet’s decision proves the great interest in citizens, as well as keenness to meet their needs and provide them with the necessary support amidst the COVID-19 crisis.

The meeting also discussed a proposed law on amending some provisions of Law 35/2012 on protecting consumers. The bill aims to criminalise withholding basic commodities from circulation and increasing their prices in an unnatural way. It also inflicts tough penalties on those who commit the two crimes.