The coronavirus pandemic has cost the domestic work industry in Jordan millions of dinars.

The total losses are expected to reach approximately JOD13 million by the end of 2020, according to the Syndicate of Domestic Work Office Owners.

More than 170 agencies are calling at the government for help, requesting legislation amendments.

Head of the syndicate, Khaled Alhsainat said there are temporary solutions to reduce the damage caused by the lockdown but that further measures are needed.

“We are asking for the Social Security Corporation to continue paying employee salaries. Another demand, affecting all sectors, is for a decision to be issued regarding office rents,” he said.

Agency owners said the government has not done enough to support them through the crisis.

“I have financial obligations I can't meet. The airport is completely shut down. Before, I was able to pay the rent for the office and domestic worker accommodation. Currently, I'm unable to pay anything, not even my expenses,” said Al Hussain Al Daoud, owner of a domestic work office in Amman.

The Secretary General for the Ministry of Labour, Farok Al Hadiddi, told Roya the ministry had provided as much support as it could, in accordance with defence orders.