Hong Kong’s helpers in need of better safeguards
- Now employers must live up to their responsibilities after Manila lifts travel ban to city, allowing sorely missed workers to return to domestic duties
Domestic helpers stranded in the Philippines are gradually returning to work. This came after the ban on travelling to Hong Kong and Macau in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak was finally eased by Manila.
Coincidentally, a maid working in Quarry Bay came down with coronavirus, apparently through her employer who was diagnosed with the disease earlier. Better safeguards are needed to protect the rights and health of foreign domestic helpers.
Despite their contribution to the city’s economy and well-being of many families, such domestic helpers do not always get the recognition they deserve.
With thousands being unable to return to work over the past few weeks, their importance was immediately felt, especially by families with elderly and children in need of care. Many employers will finally heave a sigh of relief as their helpers return.
There are still issues to address, though. Some new recruits caught up by the ban are worried that they may lose their contracts. Others are concerned about possible wage deductions.
Given the circumstances, employers and immigration officials should be more accommodating and flexible with such contractual arrangements. The inconvenience caused is, after all, beyond one’s control.