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Published on December 5, 2007

"This is paid leave," PM's Office Minister Khunying Dhipavadee Meksawan said after she emerged from the Cabinet meeting.

Dhipavadee said the move was launched as part of the auspicious occasion of HM King Bhumibol's 80th birthday celebration this year. "His Majesty has emphasised that all civil servants should be virtuous and honest," Dhipavadee said.

She said the programme would allow civil servants to enjoy better living experiences, after which they could return to work with increased efficiency.

Dhipavadee said female civil servants interested in the programme could apply to the National Buddhism Bureau, which would organise religious trips for them.

"With the help of the bureau, civil servants can make the trips in a group and we can evaluate their practice," she said.

However, all female civil servants had to get prior approval from their supervisors to take such leave.

Under government regulations, male civil servants can take paid ordination leave once in their service and the leave can be for up to three months.

The Nation/piyanart srivalo