NTUC’s Budget proposals

I refer to the article “NTUC submits Budget proposals” (Straits Times, Feb 26).

Distinguish between companies that are committed to hiring Singaporeans and those that are not

It states that “It calls on the Government to review the criteria for Employment Passes, and to distinguish between companies that are committed to hiring Singaporeans and those that are not.

It also wants better protection for contract and low-wage workers.”

Only 0.03% of jobs growth to locals?

I applaud this call which is timely in the light that the jobs growth for locals was only 100 local jobs (0.03 per cent of total jobs growth) last year.

Breakdown workers into S’poreans, PRs & foreigners?

I would suggest that we take the lead and set the example, by giving the breakdown of the percentage of workers into Singaporeans,   permanent residents (PRs) and foreigners, in all its social enterprises.

This may then encourage and enable other employers to emulate this benchmark.

Breakdown the statistics for all sectors?

As to “”We are aware (the problem) is not widespread but sector specific,” he said, adding that the information and communications technology and financial sectors are two that the measures could target” – why not breakdown the percentage of workers into Singaporeans,   permanent residents (PRs) and foreigners, in all the sectors, instead of as I understand it –  the percentage of Singaporean workers has so far only been disclosed for just one sector – the aviation sector.

Reciprocate trust with more help?

Since the people have given their trust and mandate – shouldn’t we reciprocate by being more transparent?

Leong Sze Hian