A Catholic weekly newspaper editorial published on Sunday criticized the Hong Kong government for ignoring the rights of foreign maids working in the city, under the headline: “Bad consequence for ignoring the underprivileged.”
The Kung Kao Po editorial said there were a lack of policies to ensure foreign domestic workers in Hong Kong could live comfortably and the government should review its policies on this workforce to ensure that their rights were well protected.
Due to the unclear definition of “suitable accommodation” in the law, many domestic workers were forced to sleep on sofas, balconies, kitchens and even the toilet, the editorial said, citing a May 10 NGO report published by Mission For Migrant Workers (MFMW).
Read: Charity urges better accommodation for Hong Kong maids
Many domestic workers were overcharged and exploited by employment agencies, while the government failed to take effective measures to stop them. Domestic workers feared losing their job if they filed any complaints.
Read: Domestic workers’ plight in the spotlight
The Catholic newspaper editorial said domestic workers contributed a lot to the city, which has has not yet developed a system to take care of children and the elderly.
So sad, she’s young…
If the government of HK wants the foreign domestic workers to be cooperative in reporting abusive employers, they must make an adjustment to the extension of stay arrangement after losing their job. Having a much longer period than the existing 14-day stay will enable them to find another employer and to continue supporting their families back home. Thus, it will encourage all foreign workers to be courageous enough to break their silence and to report their pitiful plight in their place of employment.
What if they complain and change jobs every month..?
Robin Chand, do you honestly believe HK government ain’t that discernment enough to know when is enough when it comes to this matter? If I’m not mistaken, there is an existing policy or rule as to how many times an employer can change maids and an employee could change employers. Also, foreign workers came to HK to work, thus, they can bear the hard works provided they’re treated fairly and justly.
Robin Chand, who would want to leave a good employer?
Robin Chand…. Stupid thoughts…. If you are a good employer… Your employee or your domestic helper wouldn’t have any second thought of leaving… Get it.
16 hours of duty
The Hong Kong SAR government is not known to be benevolent to even its own people.