By Zheng Caixiong (China Daily)
Updated: 2008-01-30 08:25

The Guangzhou federation of trade unions has said it will provide 50 free movie screenings for migrants who choose to stay in the city, and has also invited 3,000 of them to a party on the Zhujiang River next Thursday to celebrate the Spring Festival.

"We'll try to bring festive cheer and comfort to them while they are without their families," Yi Lihua, a federation official, said.

Many employers in Guangdong have responded to the governor's call, with measures to encourage employees to stay put.

A Hong Kong-funded garment company in Guangzhou's Panyu district has decided to organize a grand evening party and banquet on Feb 6, the eve of the Lunar New Year, for staff who want to stay.

The company is also treating workers to trips to scenic spots in the provincial capital during the holidays.

Similarly, Aisen Food and Beverage Company in the city of Zhaoqing will distribute 200 yuan ($28) to each of the 140 staff who have promised to stay for the festival.

Many other companies are also offering an additional seven days' vacation for their employees, for them to return home between the sixth and 15th day of the Lunar New Year instead.

Migrant workers encouraged to stay put

SHENZHEN - Li Zhaojun was furious when the bus he planned to take to his hometown in Bengbu, Anhui province was canceled because of the severe weather.

But the 19-year-old lift maintenance worker has been placated somewhat by a government move to refund the cost of his ticket.

"It's my first time working away from home and I looked forward to spending the most important traditional festival with my parents and grandparents," Li said.

"But now I have no choice but to stay with my aunts and their families."

He said the authorities' measures would be more attractive if migrant workers were allowed to visit the city's tourist attractions for free.

"My co-workers and I have never been to such places because we can't afford the admission fees," he said.

The bad weather and resulting paralysis of the transport system in some regions has forced authorities to appeal to millions of migrant workers to stay put for the Spring Festival.

But there is no sign of the travel woes letting up as many areas are forecast for more snow and rain in the next 10 days, the municipal government said.

The government of Bao'an district said it has set up 141 shelters and allocated emergency funds of 350,000 yuan ($48,600) to ensure the supply of food, drinking water, clothing and blankets.

In Futian district, the government said it will buy phone cards for migrant workers and sponsor a banquet for them on the eve of the Spring Festival.

Several private firms have also laid on activities to encourage people to stay in the city.

 

   1 2   

   1 2