The Department of Labor is printing 9,000 to 11,000 transition conditional permits or “umbrella permits” to the first batch of eligible alien workers next week.
During yesterday's forum with some leaders of alien worker groups at Labor's conference room, acting Labor deputy secretary Barry Hirshbein and Labor special legal counsel Deanne Siemer disclosed that about 2,500 to 3,000 more “umbrella permits” will be issued for the second batch of workers.
United Workers Movement Inc. president Rabby Syed, Dekada Movement president Bonifacio Sagana, activist Malou Berueco, and other leaders of different alien worker groups attended the forum.
Reps. Tina Sablan and Ed Salas were also present and raised some questions and concerns.
Siemer explained how they and Gov. Benigno R. Fitial established the “umbrella permit” policy and its importance to stabilizing the CNMI workforce.
Siemer said that, while facing uncertainty due to the upcoming federalization, Fitial wants alien workers to feel comfortable and welcome in the Commonwealth.
“This is just protection,” she said.
When federalization comes in and if the federal government offers a program that alien workers believe are good for them, they can throw away the umbrella permits if they want, Hirshbein said.
“It's only about signing and distribution,” said Hirsbein, referring to next week's issuance of the “umbrella permits to the first batch of workers.
Hirsbein said if workers fail to get the permits for any reason, Labor can make accommodations for them. He said they also recognize those who are currently off-island.
The forum was still ongoing when Saipan Tribune left the conference room.
Labor announced last week that it will begin releasing the transitional conditional permits on Monday, Oct. 26. The release of the permits will be done in alphabetical order.
Labor officials said the “umbrella permits” will stabilize the workforce, protect employers and employees, and prevent undue damage to the economy.
Labor intends to finish distributing all permits by Oct. 30, 2009.
Labor said an alien worker should hold the “umbrella permit” for the entire two-year period unless Labor revokes it.
The federalization law states that any Commonwealth-issued permit that is in existence on Nov. 27, 2009, will be honored for two years after the law's transition date. The transition date is currently set for Nov. 28, 2009.
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