Voices | Friday, February 25, 2005 Print Article Email To Friend(s) Feedback
No excuses – enshrine their rights in law
Letter from LIEW KAI KHIUN
The fact that such an appalling guideline — giving foreign domestic workers (FDWs) one day off a month — has to be suggested by the Association of Employment Agencies reflects on the working conditions FDWs are subject to.
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I know of many families that see no problem or shame in not even giving their FDWs a day off for months, even on public holidays marking religious events.
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I do not see how any amount of public education or private moral suasion can tickle the conscience of these employers.
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The only solution lies in compulsion through legislation.
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Even aware as it is of the situation, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has consistently claimed it is "not practical" to regulate such private contractual arrangements, and continues to believe that most Singaporeans employers are reasonable people.
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Though having measures to protect the welfare of FDWs, MOM has fallen short in coming up with legislation concerning minimum days off for FDWs.
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The law should protect those who cannot protect themselves from abuse and exploitation. While FDWs are politically of marginal consequence compared to their Singaporean employers, nonetheless they should be treated as human beings with inalienable basic rights.
Letter from LIEW KAI KHIUN