The operation of the controversial new Parliamentary Club will be financed by annual membership fees paid by lawmakers, not taxpayer's money, says Chinnaworn Bunyakiat, deputy chairman of the committee on House of Representatives' affairs.
Earlier this week, Padipat Santipada, Move Forward MP for Phitsanulok, criticised the government's plan to open a luxury club in the new parliament building, complete with a spa and a ballroom, as "unacceptable".
Mr Padipat said the club, with its extravagant features, does not belong in parliament as it is a place of work, not entertainment. He said money for the club could have been used instead to fund offices or breastfeeding rooms for officials. He has asked for a review of the services offered at the facility.
Mr Chinnaworn on Thursday pledged to review the services offered at the club but defended its function. He said the Parliamentary Club serves the same purpose as other recreational centres under various agencies or organisations. Plans for functions at the club, which will be managed by a committee, are being drafted, he said.
Regarding costs, he said the club will be financed by members, including MPs and senators, who will pay a 500-baht annual fee to use the facility.
He also said there is some leftover budget from the recreational club at the old parliament building, which may be used to help fund the new centre.
Operations in the old centre in the old parliament building were financed by annual fees paid by members.
Napaporn Phetjinda, member of the committee on parliamentary affairs, said the club, once opened, will be managed by a tripartite panel made up of MPs, senators and parliamentary officials.
Officials are now preparing for the club's opening, but it is unclear when the facility will open.
The contractor has not yet handed over the club to parliament.