Govt committed to building fair and harmonious workplaces: Forum

We refer to the letters and commentary discussing the Workplace Fairness Bill and thank the writers for their views (New legislation leaves LGBTQ+ workers behind again, Jan 15; The Workplace Fairness Act must go further if we are to stamp out discrimination, Jan 16; Including sexual orientation in new workplace law would have wide-ranging implications, Jan 17; and Workplace Act covers only discrimination in ‘employment decisions’, Jan 20).

Employment decisions in Singapore must be fair and merit-based.

No form of workplace discrimination should be accepted. This includes discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, or other characteristics such as medical conditions, or discrimination by association.

Anyone who believes he has been unfairly treated at the workplace should contact the Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices for advice and assistance.

The Workplace Fairness legislation builds on the existing Tripartite Guidelines on Fair Employment Practices.

The legislation is tightly scoped for now, because we want to preserve and evolve our workplace norms over time, rather than disrupt them too suddenly.

The public and parliamentary discussions over the Bill have highlighted the diverse views of our society. It is therefore important that we maintain an open space to discuss these views, while respecting the values and beliefs of others. 

The Government is committed to building fair and harmonious workplaces in Singapore.

The Bill has taken on board many of the key concerns articulated through engagements and consultations.

We will continue to listen to feedback, build up our experience and capabilities and review the legislation regularly.  

Tan Li Sheng
Divisional Director, Workplace Policy and Strategy Division
Ministry of Manpower

Faith Li
General Manager
Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices

Source: The Straits Times © SPH Media Limited. Permission required for reproduction.

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