MOM Resolves Salary Dispute

The following article appeared in TODAY on 8 January 2009:

MOM resolves salary dispute
By Leong Wee Keat

Most of the 226 Chinese workers who went to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) last week after a pay dispute with their employer have accepted a settlement.

Of these, 171 workers will continue working here while 53 will return to China. Two workers will have their claims adjudicated by the Labour Court.

MOM advised workers not to take matters into their own hands but to report such disputes or grievances to the ministry for mediation or adjudication in the Labour Court. MOM said it and the police would not hesitate to take firm action if workers violate any laws.

Meanwhile, in a joint statement yesterday, the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and Singapore National Employers Federation (Snef) urged employers to treat foreign workers — who make valuable contributions to the economy — right.

Mr Yeo Guat Kwang, chairman of the Migrant Workers’ Forum, and Mr Koh Juan Kiat, Snef’s executive director, expressed concern over recent media reports.

They reminded employers to comply with the conditions of the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act, which requires employers of work permit holders to provide adequate housing, food and medical coverage.

Employers also ought to pay their workers on time and settle outstanding salaries before repatriating them.