A spokesman for the Labour Department (LD) said today (October 14) that the Consulate General of the Philippines in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) has formally notified the LD about the Secretary of Labor and Employment of the Philippines' acceptance of the suggestion of the Government of the HKSAR. It would suspend the implementation of the new policy which requires all employment contracts between foreign domestic helpers (FDHs) and their employers to contain a provision excepting the cleaning of exterior windows as part of FDHs' duties for a month (until November 14) so that the two governments could have more thorough discussions on the matter and fully consult the stakeholders, with a view to identifying a mutually agreeable way forward.

     The spokesman said the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, welcomed the Philippine Government's decision and also expressed his gratitude for the assistance provided by the Philippine Consul General.  

     "The Government is committed to safeguarding the occupational safety of employees. Employers also have the responsibility of providing a safe working environment to FDHs. We believe that the majority of the employers treat their FDHs well and will not compel their FDHs to work in a dangerous working environment.

     "We should also tackle the problem at source and raise the awareness of employers and FDHs on daily household and occupational safety, including the provision of appropriate safety measures by employers, such as installing window grilles or providing suitable tools for FDHs, and FDHs should stand on the floor while cleaning windows. The LD and the Occupational Safety and Health Council will further step up publicity and education efforts to raise the awareness of FDHs and employers on safety and health at work. They would also be happy to further enhance collaboration with the Consulate General to give guidance to employers and FDHs on practicable safety measures so as to ensure that FDHs can clean the exterior of windows in safe conditions," the spokesman said.

     The LD will continue to follow-up with the Philippine Consulate General on ways to ensure FDHs can clean the exterior window safely and engage relevant stakeholders to identify a mutually agreeable way forward.

Ends/Friday, October 14, 2016
Issued at HKT 20:30

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