Stricter laws against errant foreign worker employers

SINGAPORE - Stricter rules for employers of foreign workers will take effect from tomorrow onwards.

There will be a new administrative penalty regime which allows for swifter punishment for those who bend rules. Offenders can be fined up to $20,000 per infringement.

They will also have to comply with any other directions set out by the Commissioners for Foreign Manpower.

New offences have been created, together with higher penalties. There will also be new presumption clauses and enhanced investigatory powers.

This allows enforcement against syndicates and errant employers to be stepped up.

The amendments are expected to strengthen MOM's enforcement capabilities, and ensure compliance with Singapore's work pass rules.

This will ultimately level the playing field for law-abiding employers and ensure that Singaporeans remain at the core of the workforce.

MOM is currently working on the second phase of the Employment of Foreign Manpower (Amendment) (EMFA) review, which will focus on improving the well-being of workers, and ensuring a fair balance of rights and responsibilities between employers and workers.

The EMFA Bill was passed on Sept 11 this year. Amendments and consequential changes to the related subsidiary legislation, will also come into effect.

paullim@sph.com.sg