**Ongoing Challenges with Inspectors; Arregui Ibarra Presents Third Outline of Labor Activities**
Alejandro Arregui Ibarra, head of the Labor and Social Welfare Secretariat of Baja California, presented the third performance report of his office to the Baja California State Congress. The session included participation from deputies of various political parties, ensuring a legal quorum for the proceedings.
Arregui, accompanied by key collaborators like Brenda Valenzuela, director of the Baja California Labor Conciliation Center, and others, outlined the achievements and challenges faced during the year, organized around four main pillars: job training and quality employment creation, the protection of labor rights, human and labor development, and labor justice and wellbeing.
**Pillar 1: Job Training and Quality Employment Creation**
One significant achievement highlighted was the federal government’s role in increasing the minimum wage in Baja California, the state witnessing the most substantial hike. Additionally, the “Women Behind the Wheel” program has successfully trained and placed women in transportation jobs, fostering female empowerment.
However, challenges remain, such as business closures and the need for more skilled labor, particularly in border areas. Despite these issues, Arregui noted a positive trend with 11,000 new job positions filled in 2024.
**Pillar 2: Protection of Labor Rights**
The sector is understaffed, with only 22 inspectors covering a large workforce, requiring each to oversee a massive number of workers—far beyond international recommendations. Efforts were discussed to enhance the inspection process, especially following incidents like those at Prime Wheel, where unfortunate worker fatalities occurred.
**Pillar 3: Human and Labor Development**
The “Secure Business” initiative was highlighted, with hundreds of businesses receiving free services to ensure compliance with safety and health regulations.
**Pillar 4: Labor Justice and Wellbeing**
Labor disputes have seen significant resolution rates, with a majority being settled through conciliation, leading to substantial financial settlements for workers. Efforts continue to reduce the backlog of unresolved cases significantly.
**Budgetary Goals for 2025**
Arregui presented future objectives such as addressing inspector shortages and expanding conciliation centers, particularly in response to increased demands in areas like Tijuana.
**Secondary Article: Related Developments in Baja California**
In other news, reactions continue to brew regarding reforms and policy responses in Baja California. In education, parents have taken action due to teacher shortages, highlighting ongoing challenges in public services. Additionally, cultural sectors face scrutiny as regional events like the Expo Ganadera were suspended, reflecting tensions surrounding public safety and entertainment regulations. These issues underline a widespread demand for effective governance across various sectors.
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