Workers urge Thai government to set up layoff relief fund

BANGKOK, May 1 (TNA) - On the occasion of the International Workers’ Day, also known as "May Day", Tuesday, employees’ organizations in Thailand have presented nine demands to the government, including the establishment of a layoff relief fund and the ratification of an International labor Organization (ILO) convention. A number of representatives from Thailand's labor organizations marched to the Sanam Luang ceremonial ground Tuesday morning. Their procession included nine elephants in traditional combat dresses to honour Their Majesties King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit. The workers' demands presented to Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra include the establishment of a layoff relief fund and an occupational safety and health institution and the government’s ratification of the ILO's Right to Organize Convention. Meanwhile, Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Yongyuth Wichaidit insisted that the Thai government has placed importance on labor and will respond positively to local workers’ demands. Early Tuesday morning, Thai Labour Minister Phadermchai Sasomsab and Chaiyaporn Chanthana, chair of the committee organising National Labour Day celebrations, conducted religious ceremonies at the Royal Plaza in Bangkok on the occasion of the May Day, including an alms-giving for nine Buddhist monks. (TNA)