Bangkok: Mediation efforts continued as the third round of discussions took place between the contractor of the State Audit Office building and 9PK Company. The meeting, organized by the Department of Rights Protection, focused on addressing the outstanding subcontracting fees and compensation for damages incurred due to the construction collapse.
According to Thai News Agency, the mediation, led by Mr. Thitiphong Pothiprom, involved 20 subcontractors and representatives from Italian-Thai Development Public Company Limited, China Railway Number 10 (Thailand) Company Limited, and 9PK Company Limited. The discussions revolved around the remaining debt of approximately 4 million baht, with half of the outstanding amount already settled. Mr. Bird, head of the electrical system installation, highlighted the financial struggles faced by contractors, many of whom are currently unemployed. The 9PK Company has a bank guarantee of 25 million baht, and Mr. Bird has urged them to utilize this for payment or to divide the payment into two installments if necessary.
Ms. Nilubon Pong-U-Pong, representing the White Employers Group, addressed the issue of damaged tools and equipment resulting from the building collapse. She has been tasked with seeking compensation for contractors who have been left without tools, rendering them unemployed. In addition, she represents injured workers and the heirs of deceased workers in pursuing legal action. Compensation has been distributed to 12 individuals in the first installment, with Mr. Worapan Klathueng acting as the case representative.
The Department of Rights Protection has previously accepted 43 compensation cases, providing assistance in 15 of them. For those seeking legal aid, the Department has facilitated lawyer coordination and wage negotiations. Despite three rounds of negotiations, the outlook remains positive. 9PK Company has committed to settling outstanding amounts not exceeding a hundred thousand baht by July 17, 2025, while debts in the millions will be addressed in installments over 12 months.