Labour union calls for stronger support for Singapore’s gig workers

There should be greater support for gig workers if the government decides to mandate compulsory contributions to the Central Provident Fund (CPF), Singapore’s pension and savings scheme for workers, said the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC).

A dedicated advisory committee, which has been reviewing protections for these workers, will be announcing its recommendations this week, which could cover mandatory CPF contributions, work injury compensation and a new worker classification.

“Should CPF contributions be implemented, there needs to be necessary support provided for platform workers through the transition period where CPF contributions are enforced, to mitigate the impact on their take-home pay,” said NTUC. “Lower-income platform workers’ earnings should also be given long-term support to supplement their income and boost their long-term financial adequacy.”

READ: Gig workers in Singapore divided over contribution to savings scheme

NTUC also called for sufficient injury coverage to be provided for workers, covering medical expenses, loss of income, death and total permanent disability. It also called for better union representation for platform workers. Currently, the National Delivery Champions Association, National Taxi Association and National Private Hire Vehicles Association do not have the same legislative powers as trade unions to represent workers.