A recent report from the Hong Kong Federation of Asian Domestic Workers Union (FADWU) and the Filipino Migrants Cancer Support Society Hong Kong (FilMCaSS-HK) reveals that approximately 30 percent of domestic workers diagnosed with severe illnesses have been unlawfully dismissed over the past five years.
The unions are calling for improved education and stricter law enforcement to better protect the labor rights of foreign domestic workers.
Since 2020, FADWU has received 195 reports from foreign domestic helpers diagnosed with cancer or other serious illnesses. Of these cases, 67 workers were allowed to continue working while receiving treatment, 52 passed away, 42 returned to the Philippines, and 34 could not be contacted.
In addition, the union highlights that only 10 percent of workers who remained employed received full support from their employers for medical expenses, while 45 percent received no assistance at all.
The union is advocating for foreign domestic helpers to maintain their eligibility for treatment in public hospitals during the claims process.
Long Waits for Legal Redress
Mary Ann, a domestic worker, shared the story of her sister, Bady Jane Alas, who was unlawfully terminated in 2019 after being diagnosed with an illness. Despite filing a complaint with the Equal Opportunity Commission (EOC), Bady Jane Alas was unable to wait for the outcome and tragically passed away in 2020. Mary Ann expressed hope for a resolution, emphasizing that a six-year investigation process has left the family unable to move forward.
Although Hong Kong law prohibits the dismissal of employees due to illness, the union pointed out that foreign workers often face significant obstacles in accessing medical care. These barriers include visa restrictions and high medical costs, combined with the lengthy and complex complaints process through the Labour Department or EOC. As a result, many workers are forced to return to their home countries before receiving a resolution, with some passing away before their cases are resolved.
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