Port authority's boss to quit after row with union

The Port Authority of Thailand's board yesterday approved the resignation of embattled director-general Viroj Chongchansittho after the PAT's union had clamoured for his dismissal.

The resignation takes effect on April 1.

Pol Maj-General Kamronwit Thoopkrachang, president of the PAT's board of commissioners, said yesterday that Viroj reported to the board, which was about to discuss his troubles with the labour union, that he wanted to quit to end the internal conflicts.

Charay Meedanu, chairman of the union, said Viroj made the right decision because leaving voluntarily was better than getting fired.

"If the PAT committee resolved to lay off Viroj for some offences, he would not receive any benefits, but if he is not guilty of any offence, then he would receive six months' salary,'' he said.

Anant Rattanapan, adviser to the union, said its conflict with Viroj had nothing to do with a court case involving overtime payment.

Since the lower court ruled that PAT staff can receive OT payment, and the PAT refused to pay and appealed against the decision, the case would be decided by higher courts and the authority would have to pay both principal and interest to staff, he said.

Transport Minister Prasert Chanruangthong said no politician had pressured Viroj into giving his notice but he did not want the problem to continue.

He will report the result to Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra because she was worried that marine transport would be disrupted if PAT staff refused to work overtime.