In light of recent violent incidents in Israel where over 4,000 Thai workers are based, the Ministry of Labor is considering the enhancement of aid from a fund dedicated to assisting Thai workers overseas. Efforts are underway to quickly consolidate information and present findings to an official board.
The chairman of the Labor Committee in the House of Representatives, Saritpong Kiewkong, highlighted that through collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, labor ambassadors, and Thai workers, the Ministry of Labor can swiftly offer aid to affected workers. A “war room” in Thailand has been set up to provide updated information.
Piroj Chotikasatien, the Permanent Secretary for Labor, mentioned that the ministry is ready to assist Thai workers in all scenarios. Financial assistance from the fund is available to those who are registered members. Depending on the severity of their injuries, workers could receive 15,000 baht, 30,000 baht, and even 40,000 baht in the case of death.
Additional life insurance from Israel is also provided, where those injured are entitled to approximately 1.5 million baht in compensation, and those with more severe injuries will continue to receive aid until recovery.
The ministry is pondering a proposal to adjust the assistance rate from this fund. This might entail an increase in the membership fee, which currently stands at 300-500 baht, potentially rising to 1,000 baht. This adjustment aims to ensure that Thai workers facing adversities due to conflicts abroad have better financial support. Given that these regulations have been in place for several years, an update aligning with current situations and living costs is deemed essential. (NNT)
