Minister of Public Health Chawarat Chanweerakul (ชวรัตน์ ชาญวีรกูล) stated that his ministry has instructed all hospitals in Bangkok to request their staff not take unneeded absences during this period due to the movements of the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD). The minister said that all health personnel and equipment must be ready to deal with any unexpected incidents.

Mr. Chawarat also stated that the ministry has not divided its services and has affirmed to give medical assistance to all citizens who need it. He stated that earlier today medical services were given to help a PAD demonstrator who was injured in an altercation with authorities.

The minister said that the main concern at the moment is the fact that many PAD protesters are of an advanced age and asked that the elderly consider their health above demonstration. He said that the crowded and hot atmosphere of the rally could be detrimental.

Source : National News Bureau, Public Relations Department of Thailand