SINGAPORE: The National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) is expecting more retrenchments in the electronics sector after the fifteenth day of the Lunar New Year.
Sharing this concern with Channel NewsAsia was NTUC’s deputy secretary—general Halimah Yacob, who said a few thousand workers may be affected.
However, the United Workers of Electronics and Electrical Industries (UWEEI) said it is working closely with employers on possible alternatives to stave off retrenchments.
Several leading multinational corporations had announced their plans to downsize.
The latest includes Philips Electronics which had announced a cutback of some 6,000 jobs worldwide.
Mdm Halimah said: “One thing that is quite complicated is in the electronics sector. Restructuring is an ongoing process even in the off—downturn period. Sometimes they reassess their position and if they find lower cost areas, they relocate and so part of these retrenchments are also a spin—off of those measures that they take.”
That is why the labour movement is working closely with companies to promote SPUR, a programme to retrain excess manpower, and the Jobs Credit scheme announced in the Budget to save jobs.
General—secretary of UWEEI, Cyrille Tan, said: "Some companies which had planned to retrench are now rethinking because of the costs of employing our own Singaporeans is cheaper now compared to foreign workers"
Union leaders emphasised that it is important to be realistic when working with companies to minimise retrenchments. If companies have to retrench as a last resort, the next most important thing is to work with them to ensure workers get a fair deal.
Retrenched workers from the electronics sector had been urged to consider job conversion programmes by attending the employability camps at the Employment and Employability Institute.
Source: CNA/yt
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Friday, January 30, 2009
Thousands layed off in Singapore in fourth quarter: govt
SINGAPORE, Jan 30, 2009 (AFP) - Companies in Singapore laid off 7,000 workers in the last three months of 2008, as the economy slipped deeper into recession, the government said Friday.
More than half of the layoffs were in the key manufacturing sector, which has been hit by a sharp decline in demand for the city-state's exports, the Ministry of Manpower said in a statement citing preliminary estimates.
The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose to 2.6 percent in December, up from 2.2 percent in September and 1.7 percent in December 2007, it said.
The 7,000 workers laid off in the December quarter compared with 2,346 employees who lost their jobs in the preceding three months and 1,966 for the same period in 2007, the ministry said.
For the whole of 2008, there were 13,400 workers laid off, up from 7,675 the year before.
Employment also slowed significantly to 26,900 in the fourth quarter of last year, from 55,700 people who were hired in the preceding quarter and 62,500 in the same period in 2007.
Finance Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam warned last week the country is facing its worst recession since independence 44 years ago and announced a record stimulus package of more than 13 billion US dollars.
Singapore in October became the first Asian economy to enter recession, falling victim to a global slowdown sparked by a crisis in the US housing market.
Source: CNA
More than half of the layoffs were in the key manufacturing sector, which has been hit by a sharp decline in demand for the city-state's exports, the Ministry of Manpower said in a statement citing preliminary estimates.
The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose to 2.6 percent in December, up from 2.2 percent in September and 1.7 percent in December 2007, it said.
The 7,000 workers laid off in the December quarter compared with 2,346 employees who lost their jobs in the preceding three months and 1,966 for the same period in 2007, the ministry said.
For the whole of 2008, there were 13,400 workers laid off, up from 7,675 the year before.
Employment also slowed significantly to 26,900 in the fourth quarter of last year, from 55,700 people who were hired in the preceding quarter and 62,500 in the same period in 2007.
Finance Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam warned last week the country is facing its worst recession since independence 44 years ago and announced a record stimulus package of more than 13 billion US dollars.
Singapore in October became the first Asian economy to enter recession, falling victim to a global slowdown sparked by a crisis in the US housing market.
Source: CNA
Thursday, January 29, 2009
CDCs gearing up to help those seeking employment, social assistance
SINGAPORE: Singapore’s Community Development Councils (CDCs) have been seeing an increase in the number of people seeking job help and social assistance over the last few months.
The majority of them are aged 40 years and above.
South West CDC has seen a 52 per cent rise in the number of residents seeking jobs over the last five months, while South East CDC registered some 1,800 job seekers during the same period.
It is a similar picture over at North West CDC —— it saw 42 per cent more job seekers in the same period, with numbers spiking from October when the recession first hit.
Besides job help, more residents have also been seeking social assistance.
Mayor of North West CDC, Teo Ho Pin, said: "Means testing is the best way to determine how much and how to help the residents and their family members. So by working with our partners, especially our grassroots organisations, the welfare communities, constituencies and volunteer welfare organisations, we are able to conduct a proper means testing and identify the needs of the family members and render assistance accordingly."
Besides providing social assistance to the needy, the CDCs are also focusing their attention on job matching. Over the years, these councils have been able to build up close rapport with a number of companies within their area.
The CDCs have also been organising job fairs featuring openings available in particular sectors of the Singapore economy.
These are expected to continue as the CDCs brace themselves for larger retrenchment numbers after the Lunar New Year.
Source: CNA
The majority of them are aged 40 years and above.
South West CDC has seen a 52 per cent rise in the number of residents seeking jobs over the last five months, while South East CDC registered some 1,800 job seekers during the same period.
It is a similar picture over at North West CDC —— it saw 42 per cent more job seekers in the same period, with numbers spiking from October when the recession first hit.
Besides job help, more residents have also been seeking social assistance.
Mayor of North West CDC, Teo Ho Pin, said: "Means testing is the best way to determine how much and how to help the residents and their family members. So by working with our partners, especially our grassroots organisations, the welfare communities, constituencies and volunteer welfare organisations, we are able to conduct a proper means testing and identify the needs of the family members and render assistance accordingly."
Besides providing social assistance to the needy, the CDCs are also focusing their attention on job matching. Over the years, these councils have been able to build up close rapport with a number of companies within their area.
The CDCs have also been organising job fairs featuring openings available in particular sectors of the Singapore economy.
These are expected to continue as the CDCs brace themselves for larger retrenchment numbers after the Lunar New Year.
Source: CNA
Friday, January 23, 2009
Singapore government to spend S$2.6b to enhance business cash—flow
SINGAPORE: Finance Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam announced some measures to enhance the cash—flow of businesses on Thursday during his Budget Speech.
The measures will include a 40 per cent tax rebate for industrial and commercial properties, costing the government some S$800 million.
Mr Tharman said Singapore’s JTC Corporation, Housing and Development Board (HDB) and Singapore Land Authority (SLA) will pay a 15 per cent rental rebate to their tenants and land lessees.
To help developers, the government will allow a one—year extension of the project completion period for private residential projects.
It will also allow the reassignment of government sale sites and private land owned by foreign developers.
An enhanced "loss carry—back" system for Year of Assessment 2009 and 2010 will also allow companies to get a cash refund on taxes paid in previous years.
All foreign—sourced income earned before January 21, 2009, will be tax—exempted.
To further help companies with their cash flow, goods vehicles, buses and taxis will get a 30 per cent road tax rebate for a year.
The Special Diesel Tax is also waived for a year for unhired taxis.
Source: CNA/yt
The measures will include a 40 per cent tax rebate for industrial and commercial properties, costing the government some S$800 million.
Mr Tharman said Singapore’s JTC Corporation, Housing and Development Board (HDB) and Singapore Land Authority (SLA) will pay a 15 per cent rental rebate to their tenants and land lessees.
To help developers, the government will allow a one—year extension of the project completion period for private residential projects.
It will also allow the reassignment of government sale sites and private land owned by foreign developers.
An enhanced "loss carry—back" system for Year of Assessment 2009 and 2010 will also allow companies to get a cash refund on taxes paid in previous years.
All foreign—sourced income earned before January 21, 2009, will be tax—exempted.
To further help companies with their cash flow, goods vehicles, buses and taxis will get a 30 per cent road tax rebate for a year.
The Special Diesel Tax is also waived for a year for unhired taxis.
Source: CNA/yt
Government to give cash grants to help employers keep workers
SINGAPORE: The government will introduce a Jobs Credit which will encourage businesses to preserve jobs as much as possible in the downturn, said Finance Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam in his Budget Speech to Parliament on Thursday.
He said: "The Jobs Credit will provide every employer with a cash grant to reduce their costs of employing Singaporean workers during the crisis.
"The Jobs Credit that an employer receives will comprise 12 per cent of the first S$2,500 of the wages of each employer who is on the CPF payroll. It will be given in four quarterly payments, with each payment being based on the workers who are with the employer at the time.
"This will therefore provide incentive for employers to retain their local workers... Employers will receive the first payment at the end of March this year... The Jobs Credit of 12 per cent of wages will be equivalent to a 9 percentage point CPF cut."
Source: CNA
He said: "The Jobs Credit will provide every employer with a cash grant to reduce their costs of employing Singaporean workers during the crisis.
"The Jobs Credit that an employer receives will comprise 12 per cent of the first S$2,500 of the wages of each employer who is on the CPF payroll. It will be given in four quarterly payments, with each payment being based on the workers who are with the employer at the time.
"This will therefore provide incentive for employers to retain their local workers... Employers will receive the first payment at the end of March this year... The Jobs Credit of 12 per cent of wages will be equivalent to a 9 percentage point CPF cut."
Source: CNA
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Job losses to cut Singapore population by 4%
SINGAPORE, Jan 20, 2009 (AFP) - Tiny Singapore's population is expected to decline by 200,000 as companies lay off a massive number of foreign workers during a worsening recession, Swiss banking giant Credit Suisse said.
The job cuts, which would include highly-paid expatriates and permanent residents, will hurt domestic consumption and help push the economy into its sharpest decline since independence in 1965, said the report received by AFP on Tuesday.
A loss of 200,000 jobs would amount to more than four percent of the population.
Credit Suisse said the economic slowdown in the trade-sensitive city-state had so far been driven by a sharp decline in exports, while domestic demand held up.
But for this year, "consumption growth should also slow, in part because of our expectation that Singapore's population will potentially drop by 200,000 by 2010" due to job losses, it said.
"Historically, Singapore's foreign population has tended to expand during high growth periods and contract during recessionary periods," the report said.
"Given the strong foreigner population growth in recent years, this trend is unlikely to change in this downturn."
Of the 800,000 jobs created from 2004 to the third quarter of last year, Credit Suisse estimated that more than 500,000 were filled by foreigners and permanent residents.
About 200,000 of those jobs were in manufacturing and almost another 200,000 were in the financial and business services. Most of these jobs were filled by expatriate workers who earn more than the average Singaporean, it said.
"As a result, job losses are likely to hit the Singaporean economy hard because they affect more highly paid workers and could result in a semi-permanent drop in the population," the report said.
As of mid-2008, Singapore had a total estimated population of 4.84 million people, including 3.64 million citizens and permanent residents, Statistics Department data showed. The rest, more than one million, are foreign workers and their families.
With the impact of falling domestic demand exacerbating declining exports, the economy was likely to contract by 2.8 percent this year, Credit Suisse said.
This would leave the economy in its worse shape ever, after 2001 when it shrank by 2.4 percent.
The economy grew 1.5 percent last year compared with 7.7 percent in 2007.
Despite the expected layoffs, Singapore's Acting Minister for Manpower Gan Kim Yong said the city-state would still need overseas labour.
Gan said that foreign workers allowed Singapore companies to remain globally competitive and contributed to keeping jobs within the country.
"If companies become uncompetitive in Singapore, they may decide to relocate to other countries and we will lose more jobs. This will be a lose-lose outcome," he said in parliament Monday.
The job cuts, which would include highly-paid expatriates and permanent residents, will hurt domestic consumption and help push the economy into its sharpest decline since independence in 1965, said the report received by AFP on Tuesday.
A loss of 200,000 jobs would amount to more than four percent of the population.
Credit Suisse said the economic slowdown in the trade-sensitive city-state had so far been driven by a sharp decline in exports, while domestic demand held up.
But for this year, "consumption growth should also slow, in part because of our expectation that Singapore's population will potentially drop by 200,000 by 2010" due to job losses, it said.
"Historically, Singapore's foreign population has tended to expand during high growth periods and contract during recessionary periods," the report said.
"Given the strong foreigner population growth in recent years, this trend is unlikely to change in this downturn."
Of the 800,000 jobs created from 2004 to the third quarter of last year, Credit Suisse estimated that more than 500,000 were filled by foreigners and permanent residents.
About 200,000 of those jobs were in manufacturing and almost another 200,000 were in the financial and business services. Most of these jobs were filled by expatriate workers who earn more than the average Singaporean, it said.
"As a result, job losses are likely to hit the Singaporean economy hard because they affect more highly paid workers and could result in a semi-permanent drop in the population," the report said.
As of mid-2008, Singapore had a total estimated population of 4.84 million people, including 3.64 million citizens and permanent residents, Statistics Department data showed. The rest, more than one million, are foreign workers and their families.
With the impact of falling domestic demand exacerbating declining exports, the economy was likely to contract by 2.8 percent this year, Credit Suisse said.
This would leave the economy in its worse shape ever, after 2001 when it shrank by 2.4 percent.
The economy grew 1.5 percent last year compared with 7.7 percent in 2007.
Despite the expected layoffs, Singapore's Acting Minister for Manpower Gan Kim Yong said the city-state would still need overseas labour.
Gan said that foreign workers allowed Singapore companies to remain globally competitive and contributed to keeping jobs within the country.
"If companies become uncompetitive in Singapore, they may decide to relocate to other countries and we will lose more jobs. This will be a lose-lose outcome," he said in parliament Monday.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Job losses in recession—hit Singapore could match levels of previous downturns
SINGAPORE: Acting Manpower Minister Gan Kim Yong has said the unemployment rate due to the current recession in Singapore could reach the levels recorded during the Asian financial crisis in 1998 and the economic downturn in 2001.
Both ministers laid out the jobs situation in Singapore in Parliament on Monday.
The industries that may be most affected by job losses are manufacturing, tourism, transport and wholesale trade. These are the sectors that are most exposed to the external economic environment. The financial services sector will also remain weak.
Mr Gan said based on preliminary numbers, some 8,100 workers were either laid off or facing retrenchments in the fourth quarter of last year and over the next few months.
Already, some 7,400 workers lost their jobs in the first three quarters of last year, two thirds of whom are locals.
The silver lining is that more than 30,000 new jobs will be available in growth sectors such as construction, healthcare, public administration and the integrated resorts.
Mr Gan said: "Close to 30,000 workers were retrenched in 1998 due to the Asian financial crisis, and about 26,000 workers were retrenched during the economic downturn in 2001. If our economy were to contract sharply this year, it is possible that retrenchments could reach these levels seen in previous recessions."
Also speaking in Parliament, Minister Lim said Singapore’s job losses will increase and consumer sentiment will weaken as the manufacturing and financial industries slow further this year.
He said the economic slump has spread to all parts of the economy.
Mr Lim said 2009 will be a difficult year with consumer demand in key exports markets such as the US and Europe expected to remain weak.
As such, the manufacturing sector will continue to face a slowdown.
The financial sector meanwhile is expected to see a sharp decline because of the impact of the financial crisis.
Mr Lim also said weaker consumer sentiment among Singaporeans has affected the retail sector and the property market.
But he said there are still sectors that are showing positive growth.
These sectors collectively make up slightly less than 10 per cent of the economy. As such, Mr Lim said their growth will not be able to compensate for the decline in other sectors.
Mr Lim also said the government’s S$2.3 billion loan support package for businesses in Singapore has been "promising".
Giving an update in Parliament, Mr Lim said banks’ loan commitments increased even before the scheme was introduced in December last year.
For the whole of last year, loan commitments rose by 50 per cent to over S$1 billion, compared to S$680 million registered in the previous year.
Since the government—backed loans for businesses were launched in December, some 500 applications were received in that month alone.
Mr Lim added that the approved loans for December last year increased by 30 per cent over the same period in 2007, rising to S$80 million from S$62 million.
SG Recruiters
Source: CNA/938LIVE/ir
Both ministers laid out the jobs situation in Singapore in Parliament on Monday.
The industries that may be most affected by job losses are manufacturing, tourism, transport and wholesale trade. These are the sectors that are most exposed to the external economic environment. The financial services sector will also remain weak.
Mr Gan said based on preliminary numbers, some 8,100 workers were either laid off or facing retrenchments in the fourth quarter of last year and over the next few months.
Already, some 7,400 workers lost their jobs in the first three quarters of last year, two thirds of whom are locals.
The silver lining is that more than 30,000 new jobs will be available in growth sectors such as construction, healthcare, public administration and the integrated resorts.
Mr Gan said: "Close to 30,000 workers were retrenched in 1998 due to the Asian financial crisis, and about 26,000 workers were retrenched during the economic downturn in 2001. If our economy were to contract sharply this year, it is possible that retrenchments could reach these levels seen in previous recessions."
Also speaking in Parliament, Minister Lim said Singapore’s job losses will increase and consumer sentiment will weaken as the manufacturing and financial industries slow further this year.
He said the economic slump has spread to all parts of the economy.
Mr Lim said 2009 will be a difficult year with consumer demand in key exports markets such as the US and Europe expected to remain weak.
As such, the manufacturing sector will continue to face a slowdown.
The financial sector meanwhile is expected to see a sharp decline because of the impact of the financial crisis.
Mr Lim also said weaker consumer sentiment among Singaporeans has affected the retail sector and the property market.
But he said there are still sectors that are showing positive growth.
These sectors collectively make up slightly less than 10 per cent of the economy. As such, Mr Lim said their growth will not be able to compensate for the decline in other sectors.
Mr Lim also said the government’s S$2.3 billion loan support package for businesses in Singapore has been "promising".
Giving an update in Parliament, Mr Lim said banks’ loan commitments increased even before the scheme was introduced in December last year.
For the whole of last year, loan commitments rose by 50 per cent to over S$1 billion, compared to S$680 million registered in the previous year.
Since the government—backed loans for businesses were launched in December, some 500 applications were received in that month alone.
Mr Lim added that the approved loans for December last year increased by 30 per cent over the same period in 2007, rising to S$80 million from S$62 million.
SG Recruiters
Source: CNA/938LIVE/ir
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Friday, January 16, 2009
RPT-UPDATE 1-Singapore wage council calls for wage freeze, cut
SINGAPORE, Jan 16 - Singapore's National Wages Council said on Friday unemployment will be "substantially higher" this year, and recommended firms affected by the economic downturn institute a wage freeze or wage cuts to stay competitive and save jobs.
The council, which comprises representatives from government, employers and unions, however, ruled out cutting employers' contribution to the Central Provident Fund, the retirement fund for Singapore workers.
"It's not an ideal instrument, we don't want to use it," NWC Chairman Lim Pin said at a media conference.
He said cutting pensions hurt workers at firms that were doing well and also created longer-term problems since Singaporeans used the funds to cover medical costs and for their retirement.
The government had cut CPF contributions in a bid to lower labour costs during previous recessions.
Singapore was the first Asian economy to fall into a recession in 2008 and the government has warned that the economy may shrink as much as 2 percent this year.
Recommendations by the NWC are not binding on employers but are usually followed by state-linked firms such as Singapore Telecommunications and DBS Group .
The council usually meets in May but was convened four months ahead of time to set wage guidelines amid a worsening economic outlook.
Sg Recruiters
The council, which comprises representatives from government, employers and unions, however, ruled out cutting employers' contribution to the Central Provident Fund, the retirement fund for Singapore workers.
"It's not an ideal instrument, we don't want to use it," NWC Chairman Lim Pin said at a media conference.
He said cutting pensions hurt workers at firms that were doing well and also created longer-term problems since Singaporeans used the funds to cover medical costs and for their retirement.
The government had cut CPF contributions in a bid to lower labour costs during previous recessions.
Singapore was the first Asian economy to fall into a recession in 2008 and the government has warned that the economy may shrink as much as 2 percent this year.
Recommendations by the NWC are not binding on employers but are usually followed by state-linked firms such as Singapore Telecommunications
The council usually meets in May but was convened four months ahead of time to set wage guidelines amid a worsening economic outlook.
Sg Recruiters
Job fairs: More misses than hits
SINGAPORE: When it comes to job fairs, there are the impressive turnouts far surpassing the number of vacancies available — and then there are the humbler rates of successful job matches.
At least six job fairs have been organised in recent months by Community Development Councils (CDCs), the civil service as well as the healthcare sector. Hundreds of jobs have been served up at some of these events, attracting at least double the number in job seekers. But has such response meant success in finding the right workers?
Not necessarily, companies told TODAY. Hotel Ibis Singapore, for example, received hundreds of applications for its 40 available positions at North East CDC’s career fair last month, but has hired only two — a housemaid and a security officer.
Food and beverage operator ThaiExpress Concepts has taken part in four job fairs since October, and recruited "30 to 50" staff for its 150 vacancies through them — a success rate that could be improved, said Ms Nica Foo, its head of human resources and talent management.
Restaurant chain Fish & Co received over 200 applications at two job fairs for its 60 vacancies, but "the majority" of applicants were later uncontactable or declined second interviews, said its human resources manager Dawn Lim. And for shoe retailer Charles & Keith, just half of its 40 available positions have been filled through three job fairs.
Why The Dismal Success Rate?
Seven in 10 applications Ibis hotel received at the North East CDC job fair were unsuitable, said its assistant human resource manager New Kheng Tiong. And with the hotel opening mid—February, the management felt there was insufficient time to re—train applicants for certain positions.
"For the hotel’s duty engineers, we did consider some manufacturing engineers. But the systems used are very different, and training will take longer (than a month)," explained Mr New.
But staff training is feasible in some instances — the housemaid it has hired, for example, will undergo a month’s training before the hotel opens. She had previously worked in manufacturing, but Mr New said they felt she had "the right attitude".
For the F&B industry, employers said a service—oriented attitude is more important than academic qualifications. Job hopefuls might say they are prepared to stay on their feet for long hours, but their tone and body language might suggest otherwise.
"There are people out there looking for jobs, but maybe they are just not keen to do F&B," said Fish & Co’s Ms Lim, who suggested that more career talks be held to change mindsets, and that the Ministry of Manpower raise its quota for foreign worker—hires should businesses be unable to hire enough locals.
It’s not just the services sector that has lacked success at job fairs. A voluntary welfare organisation (VWO) that participated in South West CDC’s job fair last month told TODAY that many applicants lacked relevant experience for positions such as social workers, childcare teachers and programme coordinators.
The VWO has yet to schedule interviews with its job fair applicants due to the lack of time. But it would probably screen more qualified job seekers who applied through internal referrals or the National Council of Social Service’s website first, said its representative.
Tweak The Job Fair Formula
Despite some misses, employers said they would participate in future job fairs for the chance to cast their net wide. Fairs help to "build our brand (and) ensure sufficient manpower", said a Charles and Keith spokesperson.
The fairs’ success depends on how well they have been promoted, and whether they attract the desired "volume and quality" of attendees, said recruitment firm Adecco’s Southeast Asia regional director Lynne Ng.
Chances of a successful match are higher with a structure in place to evaluate applications — something staffing firms can help develop, she said.
ThaiExpress’ Ms Foo said employers should know the fair’s theme and target audience, and job seekers should read up on the participating companies.
Indeed, some employers have hit on a winning formula. The National University Hospital, which held a solo walk—in recruitment drive on December 27, advertised and received media coverage in the lead—up to the event.
Half the applicants were qualified for the jobs they sought, and 10 per cent of the 500 vacancies were filled just two weeks after the fair. Interviews are still ongoing, said NUH’s human resource director Clara Wee.
"Having such a job fair attracts a large pool of interested applicants in a single day," Ms Wee said. "We are very satisfied with the outcome of this recruitment drive and are considering making this a regular feature, perhaps even on a quarterly basis."
SG Recruiters
Source: TODAY/fa
At least six job fairs have been organised in recent months by Community Development Councils (CDCs), the civil service as well as the healthcare sector. Hundreds of jobs have been served up at some of these events, attracting at least double the number in job seekers. But has such response meant success in finding the right workers?
Not necessarily, companies told TODAY. Hotel Ibis Singapore, for example, received hundreds of applications for its 40 available positions at North East CDC’s career fair last month, but has hired only two — a housemaid and a security officer.
Food and beverage operator ThaiExpress Concepts has taken part in four job fairs since October, and recruited "30 to 50" staff for its 150 vacancies through them — a success rate that could be improved, said Ms Nica Foo, its head of human resources and talent management.
Restaurant chain Fish & Co received over 200 applications at two job fairs for its 60 vacancies, but "the majority" of applicants were later uncontactable or declined second interviews, said its human resources manager Dawn Lim. And for shoe retailer Charles & Keith, just half of its 40 available positions have been filled through three job fairs.
Why The Dismal Success Rate?
Seven in 10 applications Ibis hotel received at the North East CDC job fair were unsuitable, said its assistant human resource manager New Kheng Tiong. And with the hotel opening mid—February, the management felt there was insufficient time to re—train applicants for certain positions.
"For the hotel’s duty engineers, we did consider some manufacturing engineers. But the systems used are very different, and training will take longer (than a month)," explained Mr New.
But staff training is feasible in some instances — the housemaid it has hired, for example, will undergo a month’s training before the hotel opens. She had previously worked in manufacturing, but Mr New said they felt she had "the right attitude".
For the F&B industry, employers said a service—oriented attitude is more important than academic qualifications. Job hopefuls might say they are prepared to stay on their feet for long hours, but their tone and body language might suggest otherwise.
"There are people out there looking for jobs, but maybe they are just not keen to do F&B," said Fish & Co’s Ms Lim, who suggested that more career talks be held to change mindsets, and that the Ministry of Manpower raise its quota for foreign worker—hires should businesses be unable to hire enough locals.
It’s not just the services sector that has lacked success at job fairs. A voluntary welfare organisation (VWO) that participated in South West CDC’s job fair last month told TODAY that many applicants lacked relevant experience for positions such as social workers, childcare teachers and programme coordinators.
The VWO has yet to schedule interviews with its job fair applicants due to the lack of time. But it would probably screen more qualified job seekers who applied through internal referrals or the National Council of Social Service’s website first, said its representative.
Tweak The Job Fair Formula
Despite some misses, employers said they would participate in future job fairs for the chance to cast their net wide. Fairs help to "build our brand (and) ensure sufficient manpower", said a Charles and Keith spokesperson.
The fairs’ success depends on how well they have been promoted, and whether they attract the desired "volume and quality" of attendees, said recruitment firm Adecco’s Southeast Asia regional director Lynne Ng.
Chances of a successful match are higher with a structure in place to evaluate applications — something staffing firms can help develop, she said.
ThaiExpress’ Ms Foo said employers should know the fair’s theme and target audience, and job seekers should read up on the participating companies.
Indeed, some employers have hit on a winning formula. The National University Hospital, which held a solo walk—in recruitment drive on December 27, advertised and received media coverage in the lead—up to the event.
Half the applicants were qualified for the jobs they sought, and 10 per cent of the 500 vacancies were filled just two weeks after the fair. Interviews are still ongoing, said NUH’s human resource director Clara Wee.
"Having such a job fair attracts a large pool of interested applicants in a single day," Ms Wee said. "We are very satisfied with the outcome of this recruitment drive and are considering making this a regular feature, perhaps even on a quarterly basis."
SG Recruiters
Source: TODAY/fa
More workers on shorter work weeks and temporary layoffs
SINGAPORE: The number of workers going on shorter work weeks or temporary layoffs continues to rise.
Speaking at the Industry Forum for Attractions, Tour and Travel Services on Thursday, the assistant secretary general of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), Josephine Teo, said some 18,000 workers are now on shorter work weeks or temporary layoffs, as compared to 15,000 last week.
Though most of the affected workers are from the manufacturing sector, Mrs Teo noted that workers in the services sector are also vulnerable to the economic crisis.
Many companies are said to have frozen headcount and not replacing staff who have resigned. As such, the unions are already in active talks with the companies to explore cost—cutting measures to save jobs.
Mrs Teo said the labour movement is also keen to help tourism industry players tap on the Skills Programme for Upgrading and Resilience (SPUR).
This is mainly to assist them in issues like managing excess manpower while boosting competitiveness and productivity.
Mrs Teo said now that SPUR has been expanded to cover some 800 courses, she is positive that the services sector will be able to take advantage of the training initiative.
Looking forward, Mrs Teo said a better skilled and more capable tourism workforce will only speed up the recovery process within the industry when the upturn comes.
SG Recruiters
Source: CNA
Speaking at the Industry Forum for Attractions, Tour and Travel Services on Thursday, the assistant secretary general of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), Josephine Teo, said some 18,000 workers are now on shorter work weeks or temporary layoffs, as compared to 15,000 last week.
Though most of the affected workers are from the manufacturing sector, Mrs Teo noted that workers in the services sector are also vulnerable to the economic crisis.
Many companies are said to have frozen headcount and not replacing staff who have resigned. As such, the unions are already in active talks with the companies to explore cost—cutting measures to save jobs.
Mrs Teo said the labour movement is also keen to help tourism industry players tap on the Skills Programme for Upgrading and Resilience (SPUR).
This is mainly to assist them in issues like managing excess manpower while boosting competitiveness and productivity.
Mrs Teo said now that SPUR has been expanded to cover some 800 courses, she is positive that the services sector will be able to take advantage of the training initiative.
Looking forward, Mrs Teo said a better skilled and more capable tourism workforce will only speed up the recovery process within the industry when the upturn comes.
SG Recruiters
Source: CNA
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Two NGOS call for more steps be taken for foreign workers
SINGAPORE: Two non—governmental organizations (NGOs) have urged more steps be taken for foreign workers affected by the economic crisis to be adequately compensated.
In a joint statement to the media, the Humanitarian Organisation for Migration Economics (HOME) and Transient Workers Count Too (TWC2) said that most of the affected workers are from the marine sector.
TWC2 has met 800 workers who have not had access to work since they were brought into Singapore, abandoned by their employers and had not been paid their due salaries.
300 shipyard workers faced with the same predicament had also come to HOME complaining of poor housing, lack of food and neglect by their employers when they were ill.
Some of them received compensation for the days on which they have had no access to work, but the amount was usually said to be well below the full wages due.
Hence, the NGOs hope more can be done to assist such workers. For example, they want affected workers to be compensated for the remaining validity period of their work permits, including the full wages due to them.
They are also calling for stiffer penalties on errant employers who fail to pay wages on time.
SG Recruiters
Source: CNA/yt
In a joint statement to the media, the Humanitarian Organisation for Migration Economics (HOME) and Transient Workers Count Too (TWC2) said that most of the affected workers are from the marine sector.
TWC2 has met 800 workers who have not had access to work since they were brought into Singapore, abandoned by their employers and had not been paid their due salaries.
300 shipyard workers faced with the same predicament had also come to HOME complaining of poor housing, lack of food and neglect by their employers when they were ill.
Some of them received compensation for the days on which they have had no access to work, but the amount was usually said to be well below the full wages due.
Hence, the NGOs hope more can be done to assist such workers. For example, they want affected workers to be compensated for the remaining validity period of their work permits, including the full wages due to them.
They are also calling for stiffer penalties on errant employers who fail to pay wages on time.
SG Recruiters
Source: CNA/yt
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Response to Media Queries on Arrests of Two Singaporeans who Staged a Protest in MOM
12 January 2009
In response to media queries, Police confirm the arrests of two Singapore citizens, Seelan Palay and Chong Kai Xiong. At about 12 pm, the two entered the premises of the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) to stage a protest against the non-renewal of the work permits of some Myanmar nationals. They repeatedly defied orders from MOM's security personnel to leave the premises. The Police were then called in for assistance against their trespass. The Police arrested them and are investigating them for the offence of criminal trespass. The two have since been released on bail.
2. The media has also inquired about MOM's decision not to renew the work permits of a few Myanmar nationals. The many Myanmar nationals who work, study or reside in Singapore are welcomed. They are also free to organise and express their political views so long as these are pursued within the framework of our laws. This position applies to all foreigners living in Singapore. We similarly expect no less of Singaporeans when they go overseas and live in other countries.
3. A handful of Myanmar nationals here however has decided not to observe this basic obligation of respecting the laws of the land and the local sensitivities of its people. They have shown in their actions and attitude a wilful disregard and contempt for the law and the Singapore authorities. In fact, some of them who have acted in this manner, notwithstanding their having benefited from education subsidies and the hospitality of Singaporeans, even demand the right to stay in Singapore as if it is a matter of their personal entitlement. They threaten to lobby political pressure through the media and agitate foreign public opinion against the authorities so as to compel them to concede to their demands. These persons are not welcomed in Singapore. They should leave Singapore once their existing passes expire. They are free to leave for any country of their choice or any country which will have them.
4. Our laws apply equally to every person. No one is allowed to break the law with impunity regardless of how morally superior he thinks his cause is.
The above statement is jointly issued by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
SG Recruiters
Source: Ministry of Manpower
In response to media queries, Police confirm the arrests of two Singapore citizens, Seelan Palay and Chong Kai Xiong. At about 12 pm, the two entered the premises of the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) to stage a protest against the non-renewal of the work permits of some Myanmar nationals. They repeatedly defied orders from MOM's security personnel to leave the premises. The Police were then called in for assistance against their trespass. The Police arrested them and are investigating them for the offence of criminal trespass. The two have since been released on bail.
2. The media has also inquired about MOM's decision not to renew the work permits of a few Myanmar nationals. The many Myanmar nationals who work, study or reside in Singapore are welcomed. They are also free to organise and express their political views so long as these are pursued within the framework of our laws. This position applies to all foreigners living in Singapore. We similarly expect no less of Singaporeans when they go overseas and live in other countries.
3. A handful of Myanmar nationals here however has decided not to observe this basic obligation of respecting the laws of the land and the local sensitivities of its people. They have shown in their actions and attitude a wilful disregard and contempt for the law and the Singapore authorities. In fact, some of them who have acted in this manner, notwithstanding their having benefited from education subsidies and the hospitality of Singaporeans, even demand the right to stay in Singapore as if it is a matter of their personal entitlement. They threaten to lobby political pressure through the media and agitate foreign public opinion against the authorities so as to compel them to concede to their demands. These persons are not welcomed in Singapore. They should leave Singapore once their existing passes expire. They are free to leave for any country of their choice or any country which will have them.
4. Our laws apply equally to every person. No one is allowed to break the law with impunity regardless of how morally superior he thinks his cause is.
The above statement is jointly issued by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
SG Recruiters
Source: Ministry of Manpower
Monday, January 12, 2009
At least 2,000 manufacturing, electronics workers expected to be laid off in Q1
SINGAPORE: United Workers of Electronic and Electrical Industries, or UWEEI, is expecting another 2,000 to be laid off in the first quarter of this year alone. The union said that in comparison, about 2,300 workers in the unionised electronic sector lost their jobs over the whole of last year.
This time round, some companies are taking extra steps to help their affected workers. 57-year-old Madam Gayah Sarimon is one of 215 workers STMicroelectronics retrenched less than a month ago.
She and other colleagues are now undergoing training courses at the Employable and Employability Institute (e2i) to help them gain new skills and possibly land a new job. It is part of STMicroelectronics' effort with UWEEI to help affected workers even after retrenchment and to expose them to other job opportunities. Madam Gayah said: "I am confident I can gain new skills.
Nowadays in Singapore, there are so many (job)vacancies like (in) healthcare, customer service, hotel line. So, why not I try?" Halimah Yacob, executive secretary of UWEEI and NTUC deputy secretary general, said: "We have been working very closely with companies....ST (STMicroelectronics) is a good and positive example, because they gave us ample notice (before workers were retrenched).
We worked in advance with them, we prepared the workers. We have a plan as to what to do with them to help them find jobs." Apart from the training courses, affected workers also received retrenchment pay-outs of one month's salary for each year of service and can continue to enjoy medical benefits for one year.
STMicroelectronics will also pay their union membership fees for a year. As the economic crisis deepens, Madam Halimah hopes more companies will adopt the responsible attitude of working closely with their unions and e2i to explore ways to help affected workers, even after retrenching them.
SG Recruiters
Source: CNA/ir
This time round, some companies are taking extra steps to help their affected workers. 57-year-old Madam Gayah Sarimon is one of 215 workers STMicroelectronics retrenched less than a month ago.
She and other colleagues are now undergoing training courses at the Employable and Employability Institute (e2i) to help them gain new skills and possibly land a new job. It is part of STMicroelectronics' effort with UWEEI to help affected workers even after retrenchment and to expose them to other job opportunities. Madam Gayah said: "I am confident I can gain new skills.
Nowadays in Singapore, there are so many (job)vacancies like (in) healthcare, customer service, hotel line. So, why not I try?" Halimah Yacob, executive secretary of UWEEI and NTUC deputy secretary general, said: "We have been working very closely with companies....ST (STMicroelectronics) is a good and positive example, because they gave us ample notice (before workers were retrenched).
We worked in advance with them, we prepared the workers. We have a plan as to what to do with them to help them find jobs." Apart from the training courses, affected workers also received retrenchment pay-outs of one month's salary for each year of service and can continue to enjoy medical benefits for one year.
STMicroelectronics will also pay their union membership fees for a year. As the economic crisis deepens, Madam Halimah hopes more companies will adopt the responsible attitude of working closely with their unions and e2i to explore ways to help affected workers, even after retrenching them.
SG Recruiters
Source: CNA/ir
Sunday, January 11, 2009
MOM to prosecute Tipper Corporation for failing to pay salaries on time
SINGAPORE : The Manpower Ministry (MOM) will be prosecuting Tipper Corporation for failing to pay the salaries of its workers on time.
It added that similar action will be considered for Gates Offshore and Goldrich Venture once investigations have been completed.
MOM will also be prosecuting Tipper Corporation, and its two sub—contractors, S1 Engineering and UPNB, for their involvement in the illegal deployment of foreign workers hired by Tipper, to other companies.
All five companies have been barred from hiring new foreign workers.
MOM has been investigating into the salary claims and housing conditions of foreign workers of Tipper Corporation, Gates Offshore and Goldrich Venture.
MOM said the salary arrears of the 276 foreign workers from Gates Offshore and Goldrich Venture have been fully paid on Friday, while 421 foreign workers under Tipper Corporation have accepted an offer to settle their salary arrears through instalments.
Some 160 of them also received their first instalments on Friday.
The workers were told by MOM that they can choose to return home, or to be placed on a list of foreign workers available to be hired by other employers.
MOM is also investigating allegations that Gates Offshore and Goldrich Venture failed to provide medical care to workers who reported sick.
It added that similar action will be considered for Gates Offshore and Goldrich Venture once investigations have been completed.
MOM will also be prosecuting Tipper Corporation, and its two sub—contractors, S1 Engineering and UPNB, for their involvement in the illegal deployment of foreign workers hired by Tipper, to other companies.
All five companies have been barred from hiring new foreign workers.
MOM has been investigating into the salary claims and housing conditions of foreign workers of Tipper Corporation, Gates Offshore and Goldrich Venture.
MOM said the salary arrears of the 276 foreign workers from Gates Offshore and Goldrich Venture have been fully paid on Friday, while 421 foreign workers under Tipper Corporation have accepted an offer to settle their salary arrears through instalments.
Some 160 of them also received their first instalments on Friday.
The workers were told by MOM that they can choose to return home, or to be placed on a list of foreign workers available to be hired by other employers.
MOM is also investigating allegations that Gates Offshore and Goldrich Venture failed to provide medical care to workers who reported sick.
Source: CNA
MOM advises Employers and Workers on Better Management of Foreign Worker Disputes
11 January 2009
Employers to Pay Salaries on Time; Provide Proper Accommodation and UpkeepWorkers to Report Arrears Early; Allow Time for Claims Resolution
MOM has been investigating into the salary claims and housing conditions of foreign workers of Tipper Corporation, Gates Offshore Pte Ltd and Goldrich Venture Pte Ltd. MOM would like to provide an update on how these cases have been resolved, and to advise employers and workers in relation to such matters.
UPDATE ON CASES
Salary Arrears
2 The salary arrears of the 276 foreign workers from Gates Offshore and Goldrich Venture have been fully paid on 9 Jan 2009.
3 Similarly, 421 foreign workers under Tipper Corporation have accepted an offer to settle their salary arrears through instalments. Some 160 of them received their first instalments on 9 Jan 2009.
4 MOM has also informed the workers that they can choose to return home, or to be placed on a list of foreign workers available to be hired by other employers.
5 MOM will be prosecuting Tipper Corporation for failing to pay the salaries of its workers on time. Similar action will be considered for Gates Offshore and Goldrich Venture once investigation is completed.
6 MOM will also be prosecuting Tipper Corporation, and its two sub-contractors, S1 Engineering and UPNB, for their involvement in the illegal deployment of foreign workers hired by Tipper, to other companies. This is an offence under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.
7 All five companies under investigation have been barred from hiring new foreign workers.
Accommodation & Medical Care
8 In November 2008, as part of MOM's routine inspections of foreign workers' accommodation, the dormitory used by Gates Offshore and Goldrich Venture at 468 Tagore Industrial Avenue was checked and found to be non-compliant. The dormitory operator was told to cease operation or to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals. The employers were warned and ordered to relocate their workers to an approved dormitory. As a result, more than 50% of the workers had already been relocated by 15 Dec 2008. The remaining workers have until 21 Jan 09 to move out, failing which prosecution action will be initiated against their employers.
9 MOM is currently investigating allegations that Gates Offshore and Goldrich Venture failed to provide medical care to workers who reported sick.
ADVISORY
Employers
10 MOM will not hesitate to take action under the Employment Act (EA) or the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act (EFMA) against employers who fail to pay salaries on time, or fail to upkeep and maintain the foreign workers they have brought in.
11 Failure to pay salaries on time is an offence under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. Employers who fail to pay their employees could be fined up to $5,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months or to both. If necessary, MOM will pursue prosecution action against the companies, their owners and the directors, even if the salaries are eventually paid up.
12 Employers who fail to upkeep and maintain their foreign workers, including providing acceptable housing and appropriate medical care, will be prosecuted under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. Errant employers can be charged and fined up to a maximum of $5,000 with respect to inadequate upkeep and maintenance of each foreign worker.
Workers
13 Workers are strongly advised to report any instances of salary arrears early, before the arrears accumulate. This will help facilitate quicker resolution of the problem, before it escalates.
14 Upon receiving any report of salary arrears, MOM will in the first instance explore if the parties can arrive at a mutually acceptable settlement. In most cases, this has proven to be an effective approach, resulting in a high rate of recovery of arrears and serve to protect the interest of the workers. However, the process cannot be immediate and will take some time. This is because the employer may be facing a cash flow problem, which is heightened during an economic downturn. Time will be therefore be needed for an orderly resolution of the dispute.
15 Workers are assured that MOM is committed to seek a fair resolution to their dispute. They should refrain from taking matters into their own hand, but work within the framework under Singapore's labour laws.
SG Recruiters
Source: Ministry of Manpower
Employers to Pay Salaries on Time; Provide Proper Accommodation and UpkeepWorkers to Report Arrears Early; Allow Time for Claims Resolution
MOM has been investigating into the salary claims and housing conditions of foreign workers of Tipper Corporation, Gates Offshore Pte Ltd and Goldrich Venture Pte Ltd. MOM would like to provide an update on how these cases have been resolved, and to advise employers and workers in relation to such matters.
UPDATE ON CASES
Salary Arrears
2 The salary arrears of the 276 foreign workers from Gates Offshore and Goldrich Venture have been fully paid on 9 Jan 2009.
3 Similarly, 421 foreign workers under Tipper Corporation have accepted an offer to settle their salary arrears through instalments. Some 160 of them received their first instalments on 9 Jan 2009.
4 MOM has also informed the workers that they can choose to return home, or to be placed on a list of foreign workers available to be hired by other employers.
5 MOM will be prosecuting Tipper Corporation for failing to pay the salaries of its workers on time. Similar action will be considered for Gates Offshore and Goldrich Venture once investigation is completed.
6 MOM will also be prosecuting Tipper Corporation, and its two sub-contractors, S1 Engineering and UPNB, for their involvement in the illegal deployment of foreign workers hired by Tipper, to other companies. This is an offence under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.
7 All five companies under investigation have been barred from hiring new foreign workers.
Accommodation & Medical Care
8 In November 2008, as part of MOM's routine inspections of foreign workers' accommodation, the dormitory used by Gates Offshore and Goldrich Venture at 468 Tagore Industrial Avenue was checked and found to be non-compliant. The dormitory operator was told to cease operation or to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals. The employers were warned and ordered to relocate their workers to an approved dormitory. As a result, more than 50% of the workers had already been relocated by 15 Dec 2008. The remaining workers have until 21 Jan 09 to move out, failing which prosecution action will be initiated against their employers.
9 MOM is currently investigating allegations that Gates Offshore and Goldrich Venture failed to provide medical care to workers who reported sick.
ADVISORY
Employers
10 MOM will not hesitate to take action under the Employment Act (EA) or the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act (EFMA) against employers who fail to pay salaries on time, or fail to upkeep and maintain the foreign workers they have brought in.
11 Failure to pay salaries on time is an offence under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. Employers who fail to pay their employees could be fined up to $5,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months or to both. If necessary, MOM will pursue prosecution action against the companies, their owners and the directors, even if the salaries are eventually paid up.
12 Employers who fail to upkeep and maintain their foreign workers, including providing acceptable housing and appropriate medical care, will be prosecuted under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. Errant employers can be charged and fined up to a maximum of $5,000 with respect to inadequate upkeep and maintenance of each foreign worker.
Workers
13 Workers are strongly advised to report any instances of salary arrears early, before the arrears accumulate. This will help facilitate quicker resolution of the problem, before it escalates.
14 Upon receiving any report of salary arrears, MOM will in the first instance explore if the parties can arrive at a mutually acceptable settlement. In most cases, this has proven to be an effective approach, resulting in a high rate of recovery of arrears and serve to protect the interest of the workers. However, the process cannot be immediate and will take some time. This is because the employer may be facing a cash flow problem, which is heightened during an economic downturn. Time will be therefore be needed for an orderly resolution of the dispute.
15 Workers are assured that MOM is committed to seek a fair resolution to their dispute. They should refrain from taking matters into their own hand, but work within the framework under Singapore's labour laws.
SG Recruiters
Source: Ministry of Manpower
Sentosa and WDA set up training course for jobless executives
SINGAPORE: 100 jobless executives will get about S$1.7 million in a year for just going back to school. They’ll each get a stipend of about S$1,400 per month. It’s all part of a new training programme started by two government agencies to help mid—career professionals during the current recession.
The tourism sector is still hiring despite the economic downturn. Singapore expects some 25,000 jobs to be created in the sector over the next few years with major developments like the two Integrated Resorts.
That’s why the Manpower Ministry started a new training programme for jobless executives to make the career—switch.
Acting Manpower Minister Gan Kim Yong, said: “Through these courses, we enhance their employability and their mobility. So even if they start the job that they may not particularly like, they can learn to like the job. Also, they may continue to look for opportunities for upward mobility as well as for more opportunities in other sectors."
That’s exactly what 25—year—old Geargina Tan plans to do. The business degree—holder has had little success getting a job she wants since graduating in August last year.
Students pay a flat fee of S$1,900 for the one—year diploma course after an 80 per cent subsidy under the government’s Skills Programme for Upgrading and Resilience (SPUR).
But they’ll have to work in the industry for at least a year after completing the programme.
Students will get to learn hands—on skills as part of the course. They will spend three days each week working in various tourism positions on Sentosa.
But there will be a screening process for the 100 places available during the first year of the programme.
Mike Barclay, CEO, Sentosa Leisure Group, said: "What we’re looking for is passion, the ability to reach out to people when they’re dealing with them, whether its one of our attractions or F&B outlets.
"Friday through Sunday, you’re working in Sentosa in a frontline role and you’ll learn the nature of the job very fast. You’ll be working with tourism professionals who will show you the ropes."
The first intake for the course starts in March.
Mr Gan said the Workforce Development Authority will be introducing more of such Professional Conversion Programmes for industries expected to grow and hire more workers.
In December, four such programmes were introduced in pre—school education, pharmaceutical manufacturing, healthcare and workplace safety and health.
Mr Gan said two more similar training programmes in digital animation and stage production are expected over the next three months.
But besides re—training after retrenchment, Mr Gan said he’s working with companies to retain staff by using other cost—cutting measures.
Mr Gan also commented on Singapore’s leading media company MediaCorp’s move to implement shorter work weeks to help the company cope with the weak business climate.
He said: "We want to encourage companies to follow the example so they can manage the process of cost—reduction and minimise the retrenchment. I think responsible actions by employers will help us minimise the job losses."
MediaCorp is introducing alternate four—day work weeks and getting staff to take common block leave in the coming financial year.
SG Recruiters
Source: CNA
The tourism sector is still hiring despite the economic downturn. Singapore expects some 25,000 jobs to be created in the sector over the next few years with major developments like the two Integrated Resorts.
That’s why the Manpower Ministry started a new training programme for jobless executives to make the career—switch.
Acting Manpower Minister Gan Kim Yong, said: “Through these courses, we enhance their employability and their mobility. So even if they start the job that they may not particularly like, they can learn to like the job. Also, they may continue to look for opportunities for upward mobility as well as for more opportunities in other sectors."
That’s exactly what 25—year—old Geargina Tan plans to do. The business degree—holder has had little success getting a job she wants since graduating in August last year.
Students pay a flat fee of S$1,900 for the one—year diploma course after an 80 per cent subsidy under the government’s Skills Programme for Upgrading and Resilience (SPUR).
But they’ll have to work in the industry for at least a year after completing the programme.
Students will get to learn hands—on skills as part of the course. They will spend three days each week working in various tourism positions on Sentosa.
But there will be a screening process for the 100 places available during the first year of the programme.
Mike Barclay, CEO, Sentosa Leisure Group, said: "What we’re looking for is passion, the ability to reach out to people when they’re dealing with them, whether its one of our attractions or F&B outlets.
"Friday through Sunday, you’re working in Sentosa in a frontline role and you’ll learn the nature of the job very fast. You’ll be working with tourism professionals who will show you the ropes."
The first intake for the course starts in March.
Mr Gan said the Workforce Development Authority will be introducing more of such Professional Conversion Programmes for industries expected to grow and hire more workers.
In December, four such programmes were introduced in pre—school education, pharmaceutical manufacturing, healthcare and workplace safety and health.
Mr Gan said two more similar training programmes in digital animation and stage production are expected over the next three months.
But besides re—training after retrenchment, Mr Gan said he’s working with companies to retain staff by using other cost—cutting measures.
Mr Gan also commented on Singapore’s leading media company MediaCorp’s move to implement shorter work weeks to help the company cope with the weak business climate.
He said: "We want to encourage companies to follow the example so they can manage the process of cost—reduction and minimise the retrenchment. I think responsible actions by employers will help us minimise the job losses."
MediaCorp is introducing alternate four—day work weeks and getting staff to take common block leave in the coming financial year.
SG Recruiters
Source: CNA
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Singapore to develop new ways to get citizens to work longer
SINGAPORE: Singapore will need to develop new arrangements to help the elderly work as long as they can.
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said one such feature in place is getting companies to rehire workers aged 62 years for another three years till 65. But that could mean taking up a different job at a lower pay.
Housekeeping is not the most sought—after job, but someone has to do it.
66—year—old Lee Lai Eng has been working as a housekeeper for over 20 years. The grandmother of four chose to continue working six days a week, eight hours each day, even after retirement.
Even though she gets the same pay as her younger colleagues, the former nurse feels empowered by her added responsibilities as a housekeeping trainer. She is also glad that being employed means her medical needs are taken care of by the company.
Madam Lee said: "My children have asked me to stop work, but it is hard." She said she prefers to be independent financially. "I prefer to be free."
"Pay is important, but I feel that I don’t need so much money since I’m so old," said Madam Lee.
That is something Prime Minister Lee will be glad to hear.
Speaking at Singapore’s first Retirement Conference on Thursday, he said social attitudes must change.
"The job of hotel attendant may be a humble one, but it is an honourable employment. We should not discourage anyone from taking on such jobs. To do so would limit his options to be active, engaged and to earn an income," Mr Lee said.
"They need to be ready to adjust to different responsibilities, and possibly lighter work and less pay and understandably, these adjustments are harder to accept," he added.
Besides attitudes, Mr Lee said wage structures — where workers get paid according to the number of years on the job — must also change with the times, so that companies will hire more older workers instead of younger and cheaper ones.
The labour movement is working with companies to make older workers’ wage structure more competitive so that it is easier for them to stay employed.
NTUC deputy secretary—general, Heng Chee How, said: "For the older workers, you are looking at aspects of health, you’re looking at aspects of skills, you’re looking at aspects of job performance.
"And all these are specific areas that must be further enhanced because as the population ages, you’ll have more and more older workers. They’ll have to work longer and they’d want to work longer."
The unions are also working with companies to help older workers find and keep jobs during this downturn.
Union leaders say they are working with companies to encourage them to send not just the younger workers for retraining but the older ones as well, as part of the government’s S$600m skills upgrading scheme.
SG Recruiters
— CNA/ir
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said one such feature in place is getting companies to rehire workers aged 62 years for another three years till 65. But that could mean taking up a different job at a lower pay.
Housekeeping is not the most sought—after job, but someone has to do it.
66—year—old Lee Lai Eng has been working as a housekeeper for over 20 years. The grandmother of four chose to continue working six days a week, eight hours each day, even after retirement.
Even though she gets the same pay as her younger colleagues, the former nurse feels empowered by her added responsibilities as a housekeeping trainer. She is also glad that being employed means her medical needs are taken care of by the company.
Madam Lee said: "My children have asked me to stop work, but it is hard." She said she prefers to be independent financially. "I prefer to be free."
"Pay is important, but I feel that I don’t need so much money since I’m so old," said Madam Lee.
That is something Prime Minister Lee will be glad to hear.
Speaking at Singapore’s first Retirement Conference on Thursday, he said social attitudes must change.
"The job of hotel attendant may be a humble one, but it is an honourable employment. We should not discourage anyone from taking on such jobs. To do so would limit his options to be active, engaged and to earn an income," Mr Lee said.
"They need to be ready to adjust to different responsibilities, and possibly lighter work and less pay and understandably, these adjustments are harder to accept," he added.
Besides attitudes, Mr Lee said wage structures — where workers get paid according to the number of years on the job — must also change with the times, so that companies will hire more older workers instead of younger and cheaper ones.
The labour movement is working with companies to make older workers’ wage structure more competitive so that it is easier for them to stay employed.
NTUC deputy secretary—general, Heng Chee How, said: "For the older workers, you are looking at aspects of health, you’re looking at aspects of skills, you’re looking at aspects of job performance.
"And all these are specific areas that must be further enhanced because as the population ages, you’ll have more and more older workers. They’ll have to work longer and they’d want to work longer."
The unions are also working with companies to help older workers find and keep jobs during this downturn.
Union leaders say they are working with companies to encourage them to send not just the younger workers for retraining but the older ones as well, as part of the government’s S$600m skills upgrading scheme.
SG Recruiters
— CNA/ir
Survey shows 3 in 10 expect to retire at age 65 or older
The current retirement age is 62, but new legislation is pushing for Singaporeans to keep working, at least until 65.
Those surveyed were already working or looking for a job and were asked to specify their desired retirement age. The survey was commissioned by the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS).
In difficult economic times, older workers are often among the first to be retrenched. The Singapore government recognises that this may make its plans to compel firms to re—employ workers aged 62 for another three years difficult.
Acting Manpower Minister Gan Kim Yong said: "We need to continue to press on with efforts because it is not an easy task."
"If you go by certain factors, it is possible that you will see a higher percentage of older ones being retrenched. One factor would be skills level. If skills level is lower, therefore productivity is low, then the company might be less competitive," said Mr Lim Boon Heng, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister—in—charge of Aging Issues.
The government hopes flexible wage systems and part—time options will encourage companies to employ older workers and keep them longer.
Stephen Lee, president of Singapore National Employers Federation, said: "When you extend employment opportunities to those 62 and above, the workers themselves would like to work in some alternative fashion rather than eight hours a day, five days a week... and companies which can make their employment and work patterns more flexible, usually find it easy to engage older workers."
But the MCYS survey of baby boomers showed that just 36 per cent of them wished to work part—time. Even then, they listed flexible work and similar income as top conditions for post—retirement work.
But under the new legislation, which kicks in in 2012, employers need not employ older workers at the same job or the same pay.
Mr Gan said: "Wages must reflect their productivity, we want to encourage companies not to undercut the older workers but pay them what is reasonable in accordance to their productivity as well as their performance."
Even before the new legislation comes into place, the government, companies and unions are already pushing for it to be implemented.
But as with any new law, the devil is in the details. Companies will have to redesign job specifications and operations to fit older workers.
SG Recruiters
Source— CNA/ir
Those surveyed were already working or looking for a job and were asked to specify their desired retirement age. The survey was commissioned by the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS).
In difficult economic times, older workers are often among the first to be retrenched. The Singapore government recognises that this may make its plans to compel firms to re—employ workers aged 62 for another three years difficult.
Acting Manpower Minister Gan Kim Yong said: "We need to continue to press on with efforts because it is not an easy task."
"If you go by certain factors, it is possible that you will see a higher percentage of older ones being retrenched. One factor would be skills level. If skills level is lower, therefore productivity is low, then the company might be less competitive," said Mr Lim Boon Heng, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister—in—charge of Aging Issues.
The government hopes flexible wage systems and part—time options will encourage companies to employ older workers and keep them longer.
Stephen Lee, president of Singapore National Employers Federation, said: "When you extend employment opportunities to those 62 and above, the workers themselves would like to work in some alternative fashion rather than eight hours a day, five days a week... and companies which can make their employment and work patterns more flexible, usually find it easy to engage older workers."
But the MCYS survey of baby boomers showed that just 36 per cent of them wished to work part—time. Even then, they listed flexible work and similar income as top conditions for post—retirement work.
But under the new legislation, which kicks in in 2012, employers need not employ older workers at the same job or the same pay.
Mr Gan said: "Wages must reflect their productivity, we want to encourage companies not to undercut the older workers but pay them what is reasonable in accordance to their productivity as well as their performance."
Even before the new legislation comes into place, the government, companies and unions are already pushing for it to be implemented.
But as with any new law, the devil is in the details. Companies will have to redesign job specifications and operations to fit older workers.
SG Recruiters
Source— CNA/ir
Friday, January 9, 2009
Police arrest 15 foreign women masseuses at Dunlop Street
SINGAPORE: Police arrested 15 foreign women in an operation against five unlicensed massage establishments at Dunlop Street, off Serangoon Road, on Wednesday and Thursday.
They were arrested for working under social visit passes. Police are also investigating the operators and those who have assisted in their operations.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Lau Peet Meng, Commander of Central Police Division, said: "Police will continue to take tough enforcement actions against unlicensed massage establishments and will prosecute their operators and anyone who assist in their operations."
Source: CNA/so
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Talks organised to help families cope with financial downturn
SINGAPORE: As many as 15,000 unionised workers are now working shorter hours and work weeks since November last year.
The National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) said this development is not unexpected as companies face up to the realities of a global economic downturn. On the bright side, it said retrenchment did not spike significantly.
About 3,800 people lost their jobs last year, compared to about 3,000 in 2007. Going forward, the labour movement is planning a series of activities to help workers and their families cope with their financial situation. 45-year-old Tan Koon Ban has his salary cut by 40 per cent since February last year as his company has implemented cost-cutting measures such as shorter working hours to stay in business.
Despite a smaller take-home pay, he remains optimistic, thanks to his family's support and understanding.
"Quarrelling over money can hurt relationships. When it comes to money issues, you must communicate with your family. You must be honest about the money situation," said Mr Tan.
But others may not be so lucky as they face emotional stress and tension caused by financial difficulties. To resolve these issues, some feel there is a need to go beyond financial and job assistance. Lim Soon Hock, chairperson, National Family Council, said: "If a family does break down, it is not because of the financial crisis, but the result of the family not being able to manage it." Josephine Teo, assistant secretary-general, NTUC, said: "Anecdotally, the evidence is quite clear – relations do come under strain.
Between 2002 and 2003, I did see a spike in divorce rates. "But in other years, it's not so obvious, and if we look deeper into the issue, even if a crisis is short term, the impact can be long term and it takes time to play out."
That is why the NTUC and the National Family Council want families to equip themselves with simple tools to cope with the tough times. The organisations are rolling out The Resilient Family Series, which will give people tips on how to manage money and relationships. For a start, three talks are being planned in the first quarter, targeting at least 1,000 people. Members of the public can log on to www.tdc.sg for more details on the talks.
SG Recruiters
Source : CNA/so
The National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) said this development is not unexpected as companies face up to the realities of a global economic downturn. On the bright side, it said retrenchment did not spike significantly.
About 3,800 people lost their jobs last year, compared to about 3,000 in 2007. Going forward, the labour movement is planning a series of activities to help workers and their families cope with their financial situation. 45-year-old Tan Koon Ban has his salary cut by 40 per cent since February last year as his company has implemented cost-cutting measures such as shorter working hours to stay in business.
Despite a smaller take-home pay, he remains optimistic, thanks to his family's support and understanding.
"Quarrelling over money can hurt relationships. When it comes to money issues, you must communicate with your family. You must be honest about the money situation," said Mr Tan.
But others may not be so lucky as they face emotional stress and tension caused by financial difficulties. To resolve these issues, some feel there is a need to go beyond financial and job assistance. Lim Soon Hock, chairperson, National Family Council, said: "If a family does break down, it is not because of the financial crisis, but the result of the family not being able to manage it." Josephine Teo, assistant secretary-general, NTUC, said: "Anecdotally, the evidence is quite clear – relations do come under strain.
Between 2002 and 2003, I did see a spike in divorce rates. "But in other years, it's not so obvious, and if we look deeper into the issue, even if a crisis is short term, the impact can be long term and it takes time to play out."
That is why the NTUC and the National Family Council want families to equip themselves with simple tools to cope with the tough times. The organisations are rolling out The Resilient Family Series, which will give people tips on how to manage money and relationships. For a start, three talks are being planned in the first quarter, targeting at least 1,000 people. Members of the public can log on to www.tdc.sg for more details on the talks.
SG Recruiters
Source : CNA/so
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
MOM offers more courses under SPUR
SINGAPORE : The Manpower Ministry (MOM) has said that more retrenchments are expected at the end of the month, and it will be white-collar workers or PMETs (professionals, managers, executives and technicians) who will take the biggest hit.
But the government hopes to minimise further lay-offs, by expanding the skills programme known as Skills Programme for Upgrading and Resilience (SPUR).
45-year-old Celeste Liu works in a security company, but her heart has always been in the hospitality business.
She said: "They always state that their preference is experience, and maybe age, and maybe your height. And they go into your eyesight problem. So we can't get into it! But I thought this time, (I should) get into training first."
So Celeste is giving herself another chance, while enjoying a 90 per cent fee subsidy under a national skills programme called SPUR.
Celeste added: "This is a good time, since the government is supporting us. We should go right ahead. The training helps. Once you train, at least you have more confidence, and you know a little bit of the job. And they might give you a chance."
And from this month, funding will cover a wider range of industries and occupations.
The subsidies will also cover courses with longer training periods.
Companies can now send workers for diploma courses at polytechnics, and Nitec and Higher Nitec programmes for adults at the Institute of Technical Education.
Funding has also been expanded to cover all Workforce Skills Qualifications courses offered by the Workforce Development Agency.
This brings the total to 800 courses - a five-fold increase from last month.
MOM said the changes will help workers and companies deal with a bleak economic outlook, especially with more retrenchments expected after the Lunar New Year at the end of the month.
Acting Manpower Minister Gan Kim Yong said: "Most of the export-oriented industries, especially in the manufacturing, electronics sectors for example, are likely to be more severely affected. Workers affected will cut across different levels, but compared to the previous recessions, this recession we will see more PMET workers affected."
The government hopes the SPUR programme will motivate companies to send workers for upgrading instead of retrenching them.
So far, over 120 companies have committed 4,200 workers to the upgrading programme. Given that MOM hopes to cater for over 200,000 training places over the next two years, the take-up rate might strike some as a little on the low side. But Mr Gan said response among companies has been encouraging, and his ministry will continue to refine the programme to cater to the needs of workers.
He added: "I think some of the companies need time to understand the programme better, and also to make adjustments within their company processes, so that they can make available workers for the training programme."
SG Recruiters
Source: CNA/yb/ms
But the government hopes to minimise further lay-offs, by expanding the skills programme known as Skills Programme for Upgrading and Resilience (SPUR).
45-year-old Celeste Liu works in a security company, but her heart has always been in the hospitality business.
She said: "They always state that their preference is experience, and maybe age, and maybe your height. And they go into your eyesight problem. So we can't get into it! But I thought this time, (I should) get into training first."
So Celeste is giving herself another chance, while enjoying a 90 per cent fee subsidy under a national skills programme called SPUR.
Celeste added: "This is a good time, since the government is supporting us. We should go right ahead. The training helps. Once you train, at least you have more confidence, and you know a little bit of the job. And they might give you a chance."
And from this month, funding will cover a wider range of industries and occupations.
The subsidies will also cover courses with longer training periods.
Companies can now send workers for diploma courses at polytechnics, and Nitec and Higher Nitec programmes for adults at the Institute of Technical Education.
Funding has also been expanded to cover all Workforce Skills Qualifications courses offered by the Workforce Development Agency.
This brings the total to 800 courses - a five-fold increase from last month.
MOM said the changes will help workers and companies deal with a bleak economic outlook, especially with more retrenchments expected after the Lunar New Year at the end of the month.
Acting Manpower Minister Gan Kim Yong said: "Most of the export-oriented industries, especially in the manufacturing, electronics sectors for example, are likely to be more severely affected. Workers affected will cut across different levels, but compared to the previous recessions, this recession we will see more PMET workers affected."
The government hopes the SPUR programme will motivate companies to send workers for upgrading instead of retrenching them.
So far, over 120 companies have committed 4,200 workers to the upgrading programme. Given that MOM hopes to cater for over 200,000 training places over the next two years, the take-up rate might strike some as a little on the low side. But Mr Gan said response among companies has been encouraging, and his ministry will continue to refine the programme to cater to the needs of workers.
He added: "I think some of the companies need time to understand the programme better, and also to make adjustments within their company processes, so that they can make available workers for the training programme."
SG Recruiters
Source: CNA/yb/ms
Saturday, January 3, 2009
MOM resolves disputes between PRC workers and employers
SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said it has resolved the employment disputes involving some 200 People's Republic of China (PRC) workers and their employers.
224 PRC workers who had employment disputes with their employers, Zhonghe Huaxing Development Pte Ltd and China Nuclear Industry Huaxing Construction Co Ltd, have accepted a settlement, following MOM's intervention.
171 workers have decided to continue working in Singapore, while the rest have decided to return to China. Two remaining workers, who declined to accept the settlement, would have their claims adjudicated by the Labour Court.
On December 30 last year, the PRC work permit holders approached the ministry for assistance over their employment disputes with their employers. The key issues involved salary disputes from September to November 2008, and unhappiness with employers for attempting to revise certain employment terms.
MOM has advised workers who have disputes or grievances with their employers to report the matter to the ministry and allow the matter to be mediated or adjudicated in the Labour Court. The ministry and the police would not hesitate to take firm action if any laws are violated.
SG Recruiters
Source: CNA/so
224 PRC workers who had employment disputes with their employers, Zhonghe Huaxing Development Pte Ltd and China Nuclear Industry Huaxing Construction Co Ltd, have accepted a settlement, following MOM's intervention.
171 workers have decided to continue working in Singapore, while the rest have decided to return to China. Two remaining workers, who declined to accept the settlement, would have their claims adjudicated by the Labour Court.
On December 30 last year, the PRC work permit holders approached the ministry for assistance over their employment disputes with their employers. The key issues involved salary disputes from September to November 2008, and unhappiness with employers for attempting to revise certain employment terms.
MOM has advised workers who have disputes or grievances with their employers to report the matter to the ministry and allow the matter to be mediated or adjudicated in the Labour Court. The ministry and the police would not hesitate to take firm action if any laws are violated.
SG Recruiters
Source: CNA/so
Friday, January 2, 2009
1,370 Foreign Workers Relocated to Approved Accommodation Upon MOM’s Intervention
Between January and November 2008, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) inspected 661 premises to ensure that foreign workers are housed in acceptable conditions. Inspections conducted at 281 foreign workers' quarters within the Dengue/Chikungunya clusters and at factory premises illegally converted into dormitories found that there were overcrowding issues at these premises, which pose public health and fire safety risks. Arising from MOM's inspections, 1,370 foreign workers have since been relocated to approved accommodation1 by their employers.
2. From January to November 2008, MOM also took enforcement action against 1,052 employers for failing to provide acceptable housing for their foreign workers. An employer was recently convicted and fined $20,000 by the court on 21 November 2008 (Please refer to Annex for case details). Twenty employers were issued composition fines ranging from $200 to $2,000 and the rest were issued warning letters.
Responsibility of employers to provide acceptable accommodation
3. Mr Aw Kum Cheong, Divisional Director of the Foreign Manpower Management Division, MOM said: “Under the Work Permit conditions, employers must provide foreign workers with acceptable accommodation throughout the period of employment. Housing foreign workers in unacceptable living conditions such as in overcrowded premises, endangers their safety and health.”
4. Employers who fail to provide acceptable accommodation for their foreign workers breach the Work Permit conditions. They face prosecution and may be fined up to $5,000 or jailed up to 6 months, or both for each infringement. In addition, the breach will be taken into consideration when the Ministry considers the employer's subsequent applications for Work Permits
SG Recruiters
Source: Ministry of Manpower
2. From January to November 2008, MOM also took enforcement action against 1,052 employers for failing to provide acceptable housing for their foreign workers. An employer was recently convicted and fined $20,000 by the court on 21 November 2008 (Please refer to Annex for case details). Twenty employers were issued composition fines ranging from $200 to $2,000 and the rest were issued warning letters.
Responsibility of employers to provide acceptable accommodation
3. Mr Aw Kum Cheong, Divisional Director of the Foreign Manpower Management Division, MOM said: “Under the Work Permit conditions, employers must provide foreign workers with acceptable accommodation throughout the period of employment. Housing foreign workers in unacceptable living conditions such as in overcrowded premises, endangers their safety and health.”
4. Employers who fail to provide acceptable accommodation for their foreign workers breach the Work Permit conditions. They face prosecution and may be fined up to $5,000 or jailed up to 6 months, or both for each infringement. In addition, the breach will be taken into consideration when the Ministry considers the employer's subsequent applications for Work Permits
SG Recruiters
Source: Ministry of Manpower
Labour leaders worried about falling economic numbers
SINGAPORE: The declining economic numbers are worrying, say labour leaders. And they are concerned about the severe fallout that the downturn will have on job losses this year.
The manufacturing sector in Singapore has been one of the hardest hit, declining by 9per cent in the last quarter of 2008 over the same period in 2007.
Labour leaders said electronics was one area where they have seen the first big wave of job cuts.
NTUC Deputy Secretary-General, Halimah Yacob, said: "For example, in the last few months, in the unionised sector, at least 1,000 workers have lost their jobs...and in a couple of months coming, there will be at least 12,000 workers or so that will receive notice that they will be put on shorter work week, longer layoff and longer festival shutdown."
The weaker prognosis for Singapore's economy this year is also based on the sharp contraction seen in the last quarter of 2008. Advance estimates show that the GDP shrank by 2.6% in the fourth quarter of 2008, compared to the same period the previous year.
Anecdotally, it may appear some Singaporeans are not too worried yet.
Labour leaders like Madam Halimah Yacob said this may be due to the year-end euphoria and the time lag between what is happening in the economy and how it affects the company and its workers.
Unionists said the key priority now is for them to help companies cut costs and so save jobs. For this, they are also looking to the upcoming Budget to give a financial boost to the situation.
Madam Halimah said: "Most important, we want to see what are the measures to help in terms of job stability...job stability....will only come if the government is able to support companies that otherwise will face a lot more trouble. So (there should be) measures that will support companies to stay afloat, to be able to keep their workers, measures to continue to support training and re-training of workers, measures to support some form of financial assistance, in whatever form it may come."
Singapore's Budget Day has been pushed forward to January 22.
SG Recruiters
Source: - CNA/ir
The manufacturing sector in Singapore has been one of the hardest hit, declining by 9per cent in the last quarter of 2008 over the same period in 2007.
Labour leaders said electronics was one area where they have seen the first big wave of job cuts.
NTUC Deputy Secretary-General, Halimah Yacob, said: "For example, in the last few months, in the unionised sector, at least 1,000 workers have lost their jobs...and in a couple of months coming, there will be at least 12,000 workers or so that will receive notice that they will be put on shorter work week, longer layoff and longer festival shutdown."
The weaker prognosis for Singapore's economy this year is also based on the sharp contraction seen in the last quarter of 2008. Advance estimates show that the GDP shrank by 2.6% in the fourth quarter of 2008, compared to the same period the previous year.
Anecdotally, it may appear some Singaporeans are not too worried yet.
Labour leaders like Madam Halimah Yacob said this may be due to the year-end euphoria and the time lag between what is happening in the economy and how it affects the company and its workers.
Unionists said the key priority now is for them to help companies cut costs and so save jobs. For this, they are also looking to the upcoming Budget to give a financial boost to the situation.
Madam Halimah said: "Most important, we want to see what are the measures to help in terms of job stability...job stability....will only come if the government is able to support companies that otherwise will face a lot more trouble. So (there should be) measures that will support companies to stay afloat, to be able to keep their workers, measures to continue to support training and re-training of workers, measures to support some form of financial assistance, in whatever form it may come."
Singapore's Budget Day has been pushed forward to January 22.
SG Recruiters
Source: - CNA/ir
Labour movement to focus on 3 priorities to help S'poreans weather downturn
SINGAPORE: The labour movement will focus on three core priorities this year to help Singapore pull through the economic crisis.
Labour chief Lim Swee Say said this in his email to unionists and National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) staff on Friday.
Mr Lim said the labour movement will stand in unity with the government and employers to help protect jobs and create growth for Singapore.
Firstly, he said, the labour movement will work proactively with companies and the government to improve productivity and reduce business costs, including wage costs and non-wage costs, in order to save jobs.
Mr Lim said the tripartite partners must be even more flexible and adaptable this year because more jobs can be saved with higher cost reduction for businesses.
Secondly, Mr Lim urged workers to upgrade and re-skill for new and different jobs.
He said many job sectors are still employing despite the global recession, and many jobs are coming onstream in the education and healthcare sectors, as well as the marine, construction and services industries.
However, workers must be willing to adapt to new job demands and not just look for the same jobs with the same pay.
Thirdly, Mr Lim said, the labour movement will stay the course to achieve its longer term objectives of getting more women and older workers back into the workforce, as well as enhancing the employability of low-skilled workers.
Despite a tough year ahead, Mr Lim said the labour movement will face the challenges with confidence and with strong support from union leaders.
SG Recruiters
Source - CNA/ir
Labour chief Lim Swee Say said this in his email to unionists and National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) staff on Friday.
Mr Lim said the labour movement will stand in unity with the government and employers to help protect jobs and create growth for Singapore.
Firstly, he said, the labour movement will work proactively with companies and the government to improve productivity and reduce business costs, including wage costs and non-wage costs, in order to save jobs.
Mr Lim said the tripartite partners must be even more flexible and adaptable this year because more jobs can be saved with higher cost reduction for businesses.
Secondly, Mr Lim urged workers to upgrade and re-skill for new and different jobs.
He said many job sectors are still employing despite the global recession, and many jobs are coming onstream in the education and healthcare sectors, as well as the marine, construction and services industries.
However, workers must be willing to adapt to new job demands and not just look for the same jobs with the same pay.
Thirdly, Mr Lim said, the labour movement will stay the course to achieve its longer term objectives of getting more women and older workers back into the workforce, as well as enhancing the employability of low-skilled workers.
Despite a tough year ahead, Mr Lim said the labour movement will face the challenges with confidence and with strong support from union leaders.
SG Recruiters
Source - CNA/ir
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