Basra: The head of the Labor and Social Affairs Committee in the Basra Provincial Council, Haider al-Miryani, has raised concerns regarding the employment of foreign workers in the region’s oil fields, highlighting that many of these workers were previously prisoners in their home countries. Al-Miryani emphasized the need for increased scrutiny and oversight from relevant authorities to address this issue.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Miryani explained that security permits for these foreign workers are issued through federal agencies, which places a significant responsibility on these authorities to review vetting mechanisms. He stressed the importance of ensuring the legal status of foreign workers before they are employed by oil companies.

Al-Miryani further noted that the issue of foreign labor impacts not just local employment opportunities but also security and social aspects. He emphasized the necessity to prioritize Iraqi talent for jobs in the oil fields, especially in light of the high unemployment rates in the Basra province.

In addition, Al-Miryani called for a thorough investigation into the contracts and the mechanisms used to recruit foreign workers. This, he asserted, is crucial to ensure community security and protect the rights of local workers.