Debated in Parliament on 1 Mar 2023.
Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked the Minister for Manpower (a) what measures are in place to ensure that holders of Work Permit for performing artistes are informed of their employment rights and responsibilities; and (b) what measures does the Ministry take to monitor and enforce labour protections for holders of such Work Permits.
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has put in place education and enforcement measures to safeguard the employment standards of all Work Permit holders (WPHs), including performing artistes on Work Permits.
Employers are required to provide a copy of the in-principle approval letter to WPHs in their native language prior to their departure to Singapore. This allows them to be aware of their key employment terms (KETs). Mandatory written KETs must also be provided to the WPHs within 14 days from the start of their employment. We also routinely disseminate educational information, for example, on employment rights, available support channels and lawful behaviour while living in Singapore, to WPHs through platforms, such as social media posts and the FWMOMCare application, which can be downloaded by all WPHs.
Performing artistes who require assistance can approach MOM. We will look into all complaints from WPHs about their employment rights and will conduct inspections and investigations as necessary.
PAPERCUTS