Bangkok: "Chulaphan" has received a letter advocating for changes to the Labor Protection Act, seeking to reduce working hours and provide leave rights for menstrual pain. Minister of Labour, Julaphan, acknowledged the receipt of this letter from MPs from Sia and labor networks, who are pushing for reforms aimed at improving workers' rights. Although supportive, the Minister stated that the legislative process must start anew, following the Cabinet's decision not to revisit the issue.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sia Champathong, an MP of the People's Party, in collaboration with the Federation of Textile, Garment and Leather Workers of Thailand, presented this proposal to Mr. Julaphan Amornwiwat, Minister of Labour. They are urging the Cabinet to expedite the consideration of two labour protection bills currently pending in Parliament. The proposed bills include initiatives to limit working hours to a maximum of 40 hours per week, increase holidays, promote human dignity, and offer additional leave for menstruation, alongside creating designated breastfeeding areas in workplaces. These bills were initiated by the People's Party MPs.
Mr. Sia highlighted that while both bills had passed the first reading and a special committee had been established to review them, the dissolution of parliament halted their progress. He coordinated with the Pheu Thai Party to further this cause and expressed satisfaction that the Minister of Labour personally received the petition.
Mr. Thanapong Chuemuangphan, Vice President of the Federation, expressed concerns over the stagnation caused by parliament's dissolution. He stressed that the draft laws are essential for workers' lives, especially amidst economic challenges and labor disputes that threaten job security and quality of life. He criticized the political process for its failure to advance these beneficial laws, emphasizing the importance of recognizing workers' needs.
Minister Chulapan expressed his willingness to consider these issues seriously. He noted that the Cabinet has not confirmed the bills for parliamentary review, necessitating a restart of the process. He acknowledged the presence of beneficial proposals in the draft laws that deserve government consideration. Regarding maternity and menstrual leave proposals, he mentioned forming a working group to draft legislation collaboratively, aiming to present it to the House of Representatives promptly to address workers' needs effectively.