IN BRIEF

Burmese labourers : Cabinet backing for more workers

The Cabinet yesterday approved an additional quota of 10,000 Burmese migrant labourers for work in Thailand this year.

Labour Minister Apai Chanthanachulaka said the other matters approved by the Cabinet were the first-time verification of Lao migrant labourers and re-verification of around 500,000 Burmese workers, whose work permits will expire on either February 28 or May 30, after initial registration last year. The Cabinet also approved a special type of registration for foreign migrant labourers to work in five southern provinces, including the strife-torn provinces of Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat.

Social work: Days off for charitable efforts

The Cabinet yesterday assigned 2007 as the "Year of Giving and Voluntary Work for Society" and granted an extra five days-off with pay for officials or government workers assisting in non-profit or charity functions.

Social Development and Human Security Minister Paiboon Watanasiritham, said the government was also urging corporate employers and private businesses to grant such extra days-off to their staff. Non-profit or charity functions include emergency relief assistance to accident victims or those suffering from natural disasters.

The special designation is partly dedicated to commemorating His Majesty the King's 80th birthday this year.

The Nation
Thu, February 1, 2007