ENHANCING LAWFUL EMPLOYMENT AND TREATMENT OF FOREIGN WORKERS IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

Abstract

The construction industry is one of the sectors most reliant on foreign manual labourers due to the lack of locals contributing to the labour pool. Despite having established agencies and a framework regulating the employment conditions of foreign workers in Singapore, it is still common to read about mistreated or aggrieved foreign workers. Incidentally, construction is also the industry that contributes to the highest percentage of workplace injuries and fatalities. These suggest that the existing framework might be inadequate in protecting the workmen that are currently needed by the industry. Fair management and workplace safety practices should not be viewed in conflict with economic interests of the company and the industry. Instead, it should be viewed as a potential opportunity for improved productivity as well as enhancement of the negative image of the industry. This dissertation seeks to evaluate the hypothesis that the existing regulatory framework is adequately protects foreign workers in the construction industry of Singapore. Thus, this dissertation has undertaken a study of existing foreign labour policies and government initiatives relating to lawful employment and treatment of foreign workers in the construction industry will be summarized. Evidence showing prevalence of mistreatment and malpractice will be presented while factors contributing to the ineffectiveness of the foreign labour policies and safety regulations would also be analyzed. Findings collected from interviews and ethnographic research would also be analyzed to support the conclusion. Deficiencies in the regulatory framework identified include the rigidity of the work permit system and a lack of whistleblower protection. The value added by some of the support initiatives by the government agencies is also found to be insufficient. It is significant to note that enforcement of lawful employment and ensuring workplace safety and health performance should be integrated for better efficacy and that a preventive approach would be preferred over a reactive one. It is also important to understand that the concerted efforts of all stakeholders from the government agencies, private sectors and the general public is required to achieve fair employment and safe working conditions for all workmen. Thus, recommendations gathered through suggestions from the interviewees and analysis of the foreign labour policies will also be presented.