DOHA: A law to regulate the work and duty hours of domestic helpers is expected to be issued sooner rather than later, as the Cabinet discussed the draft law at its meeting yesterday.

The Cabinet also discussed the recommendations of the Advisery Council and the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs on the draft law. According to the draft law, the sponsor shall be bound to provide suitable accommodation and healthcare to the domestic worker as well as medical treatment in case the person falls sick or meets with an accident.

Domestic helpers should not be forced to work against their dignity, but only in conditions agreed upon by the two sides. They shall be entitled for a monthly salary, as agreed upon by the two sides and to be paid at the end of every month or three days after.

The payment shall be made through the sponsor’s bank account. If the sponsor has no bank account and the payment was made in cash, there should be a proof that the salary was paid in full.

The workers shall be entitled to a paid day off every week and paid annual leave for three weeks, besides time for rest, food and sleep. They are also to be paid air ticket to their home country every two years or the equivalent amount in cash.