WORKERS RALLY TO DEMAND MINIMUM WAGE

BANGKOK, Oct 7 (Bernama) -– Thousands of workers today rallied peacefully in
front of the Government House where the Prime Minister's office is located
here, demanding the government to immediately increase daily minimum wage of 300
Baht (about RM30) nationwide.

Confederation of Thai Labour chairman Manas Kosol said the demand was a
follow-up to the current government promise on the matter during last July's
general election.

Speaking to reporters at the rally, he said there was still something
unclear about the policy although the government was formed.

Currently, the minimum wage ranges from 170 to 220 Baht (about RM17 to RM22)
daily, depending on the province. The minimum wage of 300 Baht was one of the
main election promises made by Pheu Thai party which leads the current coalition
government.

Deputy Prime Minister Kittirat Na Ranong, who is also commerce minister,
received a letter from the confederation at the rally. He told rally members
that the labour ministry was working on the matter.

He said the employers, especially those from the private sector, might need
some time to meet the minimum wage increase.

Permanent Secretary for labour and Chairman of the Central Wage Committee
Somkiart Chayasriwong said the committee during its meeting on Wednesday
proposed two wage increase options.

The first option involves a gradual increase to 300 Baht within two years or
the second option with a gradual increase to achieve the target over a
four-year period.

The tri-partite committee comprises the government, employers and labour
representatives and they will consider the options during its next meeting on
Oct 17.
-- BERNAMA