The President answers questions July 18, 2553

Yes, for this week's questions posted on the website pm.go.th, there are there questions that have been selected. The first question is on the manner of expressing opinions on the issue of media reform. Actually, there are comments that when the media used the words 'not conforming to the reform plan,' they probably didn't mean it that way, but meant to indicate their intention of maintaining media independence. I would comment that it is appropriate that the media is independent, and I entrust you to monitor those in the media who are committing unlawful acts, especially while there are changes in the Cabinet. These opinions seem to converge, and we are in the process of fostering mutual understanding with various bodies, and I think work on this matter is going well. Last week, I had the opportunity to meet two media groups, The Nation group and Matichon group, and have had frank exchanges of opinion which are very useful to the continuing work on this issue. The second question is in the form of a complaint, about the vice of gambling; specifically, how to severely deal with officials in the localities with the problem of gambling. I'd like to say that, indeed, I have always received complaints through various channels about the places where these vices or unlawful activities occur, which I have passed on to officials. If local officials do not respond or insist that there no such things occur, and there are confirmations otherwise, other units will be sent to deal with the matter in the manner suggested. Not that they will be sent to the three Southern Provinces, which had been one of the suggestions, but they will be investigated and punished accordingly, I assure you. Anyone who has definite information on this, please inform us of the location, and we will take care of it. Lastly, on assistance to temporary workers as regards to the cost of living: I'd like to inform you that right now there is consideration on this matter, as the National Commission on Human Rights has concerns, especially on social security benefit issues. I have instructed that the social security issue be considered simultaneously. Presently I wanted various agencies to further review the issue of hiring temporary staff, which poses problems both in terms of remuneration and social security benefit issues, and had generated many complaints. The Civil Service Commission is looking into this matter, and will consider whether there are other measures that can be of further assistance.