45,078 workers laid off over flood crisis

The Labour Ministry said that from October 1, 2011 to February 15, 28,679 establishments covering 993,944 workers in 29 provinces were affected by the flooding. Of the affected firms, 284 with 164,552 people in their employ are still closed, while 14 businesses employing 5,480 workers have notified the authorities of permanent closure. 

Ayutthaya topped the list with 72 establishments laying off 25,919 – or 57.4 per cent – of the floodaffected workers, followed by Pathum Thani where 35 establishments laid off 18,483 workers and Chachoengsao where two businesses laid off 509 workers. As part of the department’s measures to assist the unemployed, a job fair will be held on March 11 at the Bang Khae branch of Tesco Lotus from 9am to 4pm, Pravit said, adding that some 70 firms were expected to offer some 2,000 positions.