Bangkok: "Chakraphol" is hopeful that the Cabinet will approve the Clean Air Act draft next week, paving the way for its submission to the Senate for further consideration. He affirmed that the committee addressing forest fires and PM2.5 pollution is diligently working to ensure the draft's completeness, with a set timeframe of three months, and emphasized that the Act will not be a mere paper tiger but a tool capable of achieving tangible results.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chakkraphon Tangsutthitham, former chairman of the ad hoc committee considering the Clean Air Management Act and a member of the committee studying measures for managing and resolving forest fires and PM2.5 crisis, shared insights from the committee meeting. He explained that the meeting focused on prevention and control measures aligned with the Clean Air Act draft, which is currently before the Senate but was previously dropped due to the dissolution of Parliament. The committee is tasked with examining concerns surrounding the Clean Air Act, particularly Section 147, which is pending in the Senate. If the Cabinet approves the draft next week, the Senate can expedite its consideration upon Parliament's reconvening.
Mr. Chakrapol expressed optimism regarding the draft's submission to the Cabinet meeting next week, citing the Prime Minister's mention of the issue during a visit to Chiang Mai and comments from Mr. Suchart Chomklin, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment. He remains hopeful for the Cabinet's approval under Section 147 within 60 days to prevent starting the process anew, which would negatively impact Chiang Mai and other provinces severely affected by PM2.5 pollution.
Addressing dissenting opinions from some senators, Mr. Chakrapol indicated that signals from the Prime Minister suggest the bill will progress. He acknowledged the concerns from various sectors, including the Joint Committee of the Three Private Sector Institutions (JCC) and the Senate, emphasizing that this comprehensive bill has been drafted for public benefit.
Mr. Chakrapol also mentioned plans to form a committee during the implementation phase to address subordinate legislation, such as assessing how high fines might impact trade and investment. The law will provide a timeframe for the private sector to adjust, tackling issues from the source of burning to the imposition of fines for non-compliance. The enactment of the law aims to reclaim clean air for the Thai people, addressing global warming, climate change, and PM2.5 pollution.
In response to the eight concerns raised by Mr. Supachai Jaisamut, a party-list MP from the Bhumjaithai Party, Mr. Chakrapol reiterated the law's commitment to providing "clean air" for the Thai populace. The committee will work to address concerns from all stakeholders to ensure the law's completeness and practicality, avoiding it being a mere paper tiger. Should the Senate object, the draft must return to the House for confirmation, with provisions for a joint committee to consider amendments if necessary.