Strategy One To improve the quality of life of EPZ workers outside the workplace
The Household Appliances Programme was launched in 1990 and has now reached some 5700 beneficiaries. The programme operates on social marketing principles centering around zero deposit and zero interest. Due to the commercial economies of scale purchase prices are lower than what the market offers and the capital amount is refunded by deduction at source in 12/36 equal instalments. During the plan period (July 1997 - June 2002) the programme will address demand from some 6000 additional worker for allocation of refrigerators, washing machines, mixer grinders, rice cookers, microwave ovens. By 1998 in a bid to diversify the programme, consideration will be given to demand for allocation of toasters and vacuum cleaners. During year 2000, further to an evaluation exercise like dishwashing machines will be proposed.
A House Enhancing Scheme will be introduced with effect from year two of the plan period (July 1998) in order to assist workers in their upgrading efforts. Loan facilities repayable without interest in 36 instalments will be given for the purchase of water tanks and water heaters or electric showers.
Several demands were made over
the years for the grant of a marriage loan in view of defraying partly the costs
of mariage involved with the printing of invitation cards, hall and transport.
Under its Social Aid Programme the Fund extended assistance to workers who happened to be unfortunate victims of such calamities as fire, flood, cyclone. These workers had been given in kind assistance to enable them to acquire basic necessities to start life anew. This scheme will be kept ongoing thoughout the plan period.
Since transport is one of the major problems encountered by the EPZ workers the modalities for putting into operation an Autocycle Scheme by year 2000 will be examined.
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