SINGAPORE: There was a spike in the number of complaints to the authorities about unfair dismissals last year - particularly from pregnant women and executives.
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) received 56 complaints involving
pregnant employees, up from 26 cases in 2008 and 16 in 2007. Twelve of
last year's cases involved pregnant executives, up from just one the
year before.
Minister Gan Kim Yong attributed the increase to various factors
"including greater awareness of maternity protection" after the
heightened publicity and enhancement of maternity leave benefits.
In all, 149 complaints of unfair dismissal were lodged, up from 101
the previous year and 118 in 2007, Mr Gan revealed in a written
response to a question from Member of Parliament Lee Bee Wah.
Under the Employment Act, employees who feel they have been
unfairly dismissed can appeal to MOM. Most cases were mediated and
"amicably resolved", sometimes with a settlement payment, said Mr Gan.
But 3 per cent of cases were found to be dismissals without just cause,
and the companies had to compensate the employee.
As for executives, those dismissed on grounds related to pregnancy
can appeal to MOM. For non-pregnancy related disputes, the Ministry
provides mediation; about 270 executives seek its help each year.
"Close to half of such disputes were resolved amicably. The rest of
the cases were withdrawn, or the employee sought settlement with their
employer directly or through the civil courts, after consultation with
the Ministry," said Mr Gan.
With the executive ranks in the workforce swelling, MOM recently
announced plans for a dispute resolution process to help junior- and
mid-level professionals, managers and executives resolve common
employment tiffs.
- TODAY/sc
They can afford to do so now with supply of employees more than demand for jobs.