Garments association urges public to be respectful of workers who contribute immensely to SL’s economy

A leading garments association has said that the recent COVID-19 outbreak at a Brandix factory was an unfortunate incident, as no company or industry will intentionally put their workforce or the members of the general public at risk.
The Fabric and Apparel Accessory Manufactures’ Association (FAAMA) said on Saturday that on October 4 a Brandix employee from a facility in Minuwangoda was confirmed positive after she was subjected to a PCR test. Based on this finding as a responsible corporate entity Brandix engaged with the relevant authorities to conduct PCR tests for the entire work force and their immediate family. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, there was a significant rise in COVID-19 positive cases in Sri Lanka.
“Brandix is a very significant contributor to the Sri Lankan apparel and textile industry. The apparel sector is one of the country’s largest exporting arms, generating an income of over US$ 5 billion a year while providing employment opportunities for around 1 million Sri Lankans. The sector has always been recognized globally by leading brands as an industry that complies with global standards in social, environmental and governmental or international regulations. This track record has given prominence to Sri Lanka on the global platform. The industry is fervently committed to continue complying with these standards in the future,” the FAAMA statement said.
“As a nation we owe much to the apparel and textile sector workers, who even during the height of the pandemic, have discharged their duties for Sri Lanka, to bring in much needed foreign exchange in to the country. They have also manufactured Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as masks and medical gowns for our very own healthcare workers and armed forces. The apparel and textile industry also stepped-up during the peak of COVID-19 by donating funds, equipment and lending certain facilities to be used as quarantine centres by the Government. At this time of crisis while wishing all affected parties a speedy recovery, FAAMA urges the public to be empathetic and respectful towards all families affected by this situation,” it said.
It urged the general public to work together with the relevant authorities as well as to be responsible in dealing with social media to protect the image of this industry and country during these trying times, and treat workers with dignity and respect.