HUNDREDS of people came forward to learn more about an amnesty for illegal workers during Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) roadshows yesterday.

The government’s Easy Exit scheme was highlighted at four locations around the country, attracting more than 1,000 people.

They were organised in Hamad Town, Manama, Salmabad, Budaiya and Muharraq in association with expatriate organisations to let illegal citizens know they are free to leave without punishment.

“We want the message to be spread to all workers,” said organisers.

“Although the LMRA has been advertising on television, radio, in newspapers and magazines, some workers do not get the message.

“So the aim is to talk to them face to face, in their languages, and clear up their doubts if they have any.”

Under the Easy Exit scheme, people who have overstayed their visas can volunteer to leave the country without facing any fines.

However, they must pay BD25 if they have an expired visit visa and BD15 if they have an expired employment visa.

Yesterday’s roadshows followed similar events and more are planned as authorities try to spread the message.

They were organised in conjunction with the Indian Community Relief Fund (ICRF), Co-ordination Committee of Indian Associations (CCIA), Youth India Association, Organisation of Riffa Malayalees Association (ORMA) and Mata Amritanandamayi Seva Samiti Bahrain (MASS).