Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn recently issued an earnest apology to all minimum wage earners who were eagerly waiting for the long-anticipated increase to a 400-baht daily rate. The three-partite wage committee meeting, initially set to discuss this crucial issue, was adjourned yet again due to an unfortunate lack of quorum.
Despite the setback, there’s a glimmer of hope. Phiphat confidently suggests that the meeting could be rescheduled as early as later this week—provided the Bank of Thailand (BoT) responds promptly. The promptness entails sending a new representative to replace a retired member, a seat that has been vacant for a year.
To break it down, the committee comprises 15 diligent members: five representing the government, inclusive of the BoT, another five speaking for employees, and the remaining five embodying the interests of employers. Any new decisions mandate a two-thirds majority vote, rendering it imperative for all committee members to attend such pivotal meetings. This explains the recent cancellation, Phiphat elaborated.
Labour permanent secretary, Pairoj Chotikasathien, is zealously setting the stage for the next meeting. He’s already coordinating with the BoT for their new representative on the ever-crucial panel, Phiphat revealed.
Though the wage hike won’t kick in on Oct 1 as initially forecasted, Phiphat assures that the government remains steadfastly committed to pushing for the 400-baht daily wage. He reminisced about the last nationwide minimum daily wage adjustment in 2012 when it spiked to 300 baht.
Considering the incessant rise in living costs, the wage increase over the past 12 years has been rather negligible, summing up to roughly 8 baht per year on average. Contrary to speculative whispers, Phiphat vehemently dismissed any notion that the government is stalling. He emphasized that the government lacks the authority to coerce the wage committee into accepting their proposal.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra echoed Phiphat’s sentiments, asserting the government’s transparent policy of advocating for the 400-baht minimum wage. She clarified that approval must come from the tripartite committee. To actualize this goal, Paetongtarn highlighted the importance of persuasive discussions with the committee to advocate for the wage increase.
When queried about whether employer representatives are blocking the proposed hike, the PM expressed optimism. She believed that more in-depth discussions with all three groups on the panel would eventually yield positive outcomes.
Regarding the new timeline for the 400-baht wage implementation, Paetongtarn maintains hope. She firmly believes that the expected increase is still on track to materialize later this year.
Be First to Comment