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Anti-bullying law in the offing
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by Leo Olivero
Do you wake up in the morning feeling sick because you have to go to work? Is work becoming a nightmare because people in your office or in nearby offices are horrible to you?
Then you might be a victim of workplace bullying, a phenomenon which in the past has not taken seriously by the previous administration, this is according to the local branch of Dignity at Work (Dawn).
Locally we have also heard about bullying at some schools. However, workplace bullying appears to be a much bigger problem. Information suggests that for some time bullying has been widespread in Gibraltar, a situation that has created a variety of problems between victims and their families and friends, not to mention the consequences they may also suffer by having to change employment (if they can) due this abuse-like treatment.
Bullying on the Rise!
In Gibraltar considering our size there are many who are worried and concerned about this issue. Statistics have clearly indicated how easy it is to be bullied at work and how widespread the problem has become locally.
I have discussed the bullying problem many times with members of ‘Dawn’ particularly Francis Buttigieg, Chairman of the local branch.
In fact for the past 7 or 8 years since Dawn was established in Gibraltar members of the group have attempted to bring awareness and education regarding this growing problem that appears to be on the increase in local workplaces!
Issue Fell on Deaf Ears
Mr. Buttigieg is extremely pleased at news that Gibraltar will finally have legislation to protect targets and/or victims of bullying in their places of work, the Dawn chairman said, “We are grateful to the new administration for their interest and sensitivity shown as well as their commitment to legislate within 100 days of coming into office. The case for such law has been evidenced by us and been made public on many occasions ‘but till now, it would seem, had fallen on deaf ears and blind eyes’.
"Many are already feeling a sense of relief at the news of this new Act, knowing that soon they will have the resources to effectively deal with their personal situation. No longer will they be bound or dependent of third party organisations and those within these organisations to seek redress…Wonderful news indeed.”
16-02-12
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