铜板街联合和讯发布《2016女性财富管理报告》
2016年08月19日 16:54:37 来源： 浙江在线
随着女性家庭与职场地位的提升，围绕女性群体形成了特殊的消费与理财圈层，使得“她经济”成为这个时代最重要的议题之一。女性消费以及财富管理行为有何特点，她们对互联网理财有何偏好？8月18日，国内领先的智能财富管理平台铜板街联合权威财经媒体和讯发布了《2016年女性财富管理报告》，从事业家庭、消费理财以及互联网理财三个角度，对正在崛起的女性投资群体进行全面解析。
《报告》显示，有近60%的家庭中，女性负责家庭财富管理决策，成为家庭财富管理 “一把手”。其中，女性收入水平在很大程度上影响其在家庭中的财富管理地位，年薪越高，女人掌财的话语权力就越大。由于肩负着妻子、母亲、儿女等“多角色”身份，女性家庭责任自我定位使得她们在家庭生活安排、家庭消费支出、保险的购买甚至理财决策中都承担了更大的责任，所以其理财需求也显得非常强烈。
《报告》指出，在家庭理财资产的配置方面，女性的投资理财行为仍然比男性显得保守，更加注重规避风险。反映在选择具体的理财渠道方面，女性投资于股市、房地产等资产的比例较之男性都比较低。不过，随着近年来互联网金融的兴起，女性对于这一新事物的接纳和尝试意愿要比男性高，让女性走在了互联网理财的最前端。
在女性互联网理财画像上，她们主要是25-35 周岁的一群经济独立的女性；北上广深以及东南沿海城市的女性，继续 2015 年的态势领跑互联网理财。其中，收入年薪处于 8W-15W 的女性对于互金理财最为感兴趣，不过，收入在 20W-50W之间的女性投资能力最强，她们中 77.3%投资额度都超过了10W，并且30.4%的互金产品配置超过总投资金额的 50%。《报告》显示，有互金投资经验的被调查者中 66.7%的人表示会继续增加互联网金融产品的投资，展现出她们对于互金行业发展的乐观心态。
据悉，本次《报告》由和讯、铜板街、阿里研究院、数字100合作完成。作为样本数据的提供方，铜板街前期通过移动端和社会化媒体对百万女性用户发放问卷，从女性的消费观念、资产规模、理财偏好等多方面进行调研，筛选出有效样本10000份，为深入研究女性理财市场提供了鲜活的第一手资料。
铜板街市场高级总监夏洁表示，连续两年与和讯网一起调研和发布女性财富管理报告，我们希望通过对女性理财的行为和心理进行分析，对追求稳健理财的女性用户有一些实际意义的指导，让她们的钱变得更有价值。接下来，铜板街也将针对女性用户的理财特点，为其量身定制家庭财富管理方案，满足女性用户的多种理财需求。
原文链接
- wong chee tat :)
Showing posts with label salary rise rankings. Show all posts
Showing posts with label salary rise rankings. Show all posts
Saturday, September 3, 2016
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Ex-SMRT bus drivers report abuse allegations in online video
Ex-SMRT bus drivers report abuse allegations in online video
By Saifulbahri Ismail | Posted: 30 January 2013 1044 hrs
SINGAPORE: Police said two defendants who had been charged for their roles in an SMRT bus strike in November 2012 have made serious allegations in a video online that they been assaulted while in police custody.
Police said in a statement on Tuesday night that they are aware of the video interviews.
They urged the two men, 32-year-old He Jun Ling and 33-year-old Liu Xiang Ying, to make a police report so that they can investigate the case.
Police said the defendants' lawyers can also raise this matter in court when the case against them is heard.
Police added that as the case is currently before the court, it is not appropriate for them to comment on it.
- CNA/ck/fa
- wong chee tat :)
By Saifulbahri Ismail | Posted: 30 January 2013 1044 hrs
SINGAPORE: Police said two defendants who had been charged for their roles in an SMRT bus strike in November 2012 have made serious allegations in a video online that they been assaulted while in police custody.
Police said in a statement on Tuesday night that they are aware of the video interviews.
They urged the two men, 32-year-old He Jun Ling and 33-year-old Liu Xiang Ying, to make a police report so that they can investigate the case.
Police said the defendants' lawyers can also raise this matter in court when the case against them is heard.
Police added that as the case is currently before the court, it is not appropriate for them to comment on it.
- CNA/ck/fa
- wong chee tat :)
Thursday, January 24, 2013
SMRT sacks 3 drivers allegedly involved in Nov strike
SMRT sacks 3 drivers allegedly involved in Nov strike
Posted: 23 January 2013 1629 hrs
SINGAPORE: SMRT has terminated the services of three bus drivers who are facing criminal charges for their alleged roles in a strike last November - for absence from work without valid reasons.
It said He Jun Ling, Gao Yue Qiang and Liu Xiang Ying breached the terms of their employment contracts.
The contract of a fourth driver, Wang Xianjie, who had also been charged and had not reported for work, expired on 14 January.
He is no longer employed by SMRT.
SMRT said in a statement on Wednesday that the four drivers had not reported for work since they were released on bail on 6 December 2012.
In the past six weeks, it had actively sought to maintain contact with them.
They had, until recently, refused direct communication with SMRT even though they were still employed and paid by SMRT.
They also moved out of the accommodation provided by the company and rejected SMRT's offers of alternate accommodation.
SMRT said their continued absence from work without official leave is a breach of the company's policy, as well as the terms of their employment contracts.
It suspended them from their duties, pending an internal disciplinary inquiry.
Notices of the inquiry were sent to their lawyers.
The inquiry was held on 17 January for He, Gao and Liu but the three were absent.
After considering the facts and evidence, the SMRT disciplinary board found that the three were absent from work without prior leave or reasonable explanation.
They also failed to inform or attempt to inform SMRT of the reasons for their absence.
Though the men's work permits have been revoked, they will have to remain in Singapore as their case is before the courts.
- CNA/xq
- wong chee tat :)
Posted: 23 January 2013 1629 hrs
SINGAPORE: SMRT has terminated the services of three bus drivers who are facing criminal charges for their alleged roles in a strike last November - for absence from work without valid reasons.
It said He Jun Ling, Gao Yue Qiang and Liu Xiang Ying breached the terms of their employment contracts.
The contract of a fourth driver, Wang Xianjie, who had also been charged and had not reported for work, expired on 14 January.
He is no longer employed by SMRT.
SMRT said in a statement on Wednesday that the four drivers had not reported for work since they were released on bail on 6 December 2012.
In the past six weeks, it had actively sought to maintain contact with them.
They had, until recently, refused direct communication with SMRT even though they were still employed and paid by SMRT.
They also moved out of the accommodation provided by the company and rejected SMRT's offers of alternate accommodation.
SMRT said their continued absence from work without official leave is a breach of the company's policy, as well as the terms of their employment contracts.
It suspended them from their duties, pending an internal disciplinary inquiry.
Notices of the inquiry were sent to their lawyers.
The inquiry was held on 17 January for He, Gao and Liu but the three were absent.
After considering the facts and evidence, the SMRT disciplinary board found that the three were absent from work without prior leave or reasonable explanation.
They also failed to inform or attempt to inform SMRT of the reasons for their absence.
Though the men's work permits have been revoked, they will have to remain in Singapore as their case is before the courts.
- CNA/xq
- wong chee tat :)
Friday, January 4, 2013
Teachers' sudden resignations affect preschool's lessons
Teachers' sudden resignations affect preschool's lessons
By Roslinda Rahmat, Olivia Siong | Posted: 03 January 2013 2210 hrs
SINGAPORE: Morning classes at the Tampines branch of Al-Amin Preschool were affected on Thursday when three of the school's teachers suddenly resigned.
The teachers cited low pay and poor working hours as the reason.
Channel NewsAsia understands that four teachers and the principal at the branch resigned last month.
Teachers from other branches of the preschool, as well as those from its sister schools, were called in to help out on Thursday morning.
Parents of the students said there are about 15 staff at the preschool.
Some 200 children attend lessons at the centre.
According to the pre-school's board, long-serving staff who did not want to upgrade their qualifications were unhappy with the higher salary drawn by new and more qualified staff.
Parents said they are disappointed by what is happening.
Two parents have pulled their children out of the school, and the school has fully reimbursed their school fees.
"As parents, I hope that we will be kept in the loop should there be any problems, because we can offer any kind of assistance if necessary," said Suriani Ishak, the mother of a student at the preschool.
The preschool said lessons at the Tampines branch were back to normal around noon.
- CNA/xq
- wong chee tat :)
By Roslinda Rahmat, Olivia Siong | Posted: 03 January 2013 2210 hrs
SINGAPORE: Morning classes at the Tampines branch of Al-Amin Preschool were affected on Thursday when three of the school's teachers suddenly resigned.
The teachers cited low pay and poor working hours as the reason.
Channel NewsAsia understands that four teachers and the principal at the branch resigned last month.
Teachers from other branches of the preschool, as well as those from its sister schools, were called in to help out on Thursday morning.
Parents of the students said there are about 15 staff at the preschool.
Some 200 children attend lessons at the centre.
According to the pre-school's board, long-serving staff who did not want to upgrade their qualifications were unhappy with the higher salary drawn by new and more qualified staff.
Parents said they are disappointed by what is happening.
Two parents have pulled their children out of the school, and the school has fully reimbursed their school fees.
"As parents, I hope that we will be kept in the loop should there be any problems, because we can offer any kind of assistance if necessary," said Suriani Ishak, the mother of a student at the preschool.
The preschool said lessons at the Tampines branch were back to normal around noon.
- CNA/xq
- wong chee tat :)
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Foreign workers in pay dispute at Yishun construction site
Foreign workers in pay dispute at Yishun construction site
By Tan Qiuyi/Teo Chia Leen | Posted: 18 December 2012 2233 hrs
SINGAPORE: More than 30 workers - from China and India - at a Yishun construction site were involved in a salary dispute on Tuesday, leading to some of them stopping work to demand their pay.
Channel NewsAsia understands the workers are owed between one and four months' pay each.
The project at the site is a HDB residential development and the company involved is believed to be Sime Chong Construction.
Officials from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) have been in negotiations with the employers and workers on site since about 6pm Tuesday.
Also present were officials from the Migrant Workers' Centre, who told reporters the company has agreed to pay the workers what is owed.
Edmund Ng, executive director of Migrant Workers' Centre, said: "We came here, because we heard there were workers who might be in trouble, and we're here to help. Tonight there may be four workers who will need our help in terms of accommodation. We have a dormitory and we're going to put them in the dormitory tonight. As we speak, the plan is taking shape."
MOM said in a statement that it has been investigating Sime Chong Construction for Employment Act infringements.
The ministry also said that since November 2012 when four workers from China who were working for Sime Chong lodged salary claims at MOM, its labour relations officers have been working to resolve the workers' salary arrears.
MOM said its preliminary investigations show that some 20 Indian workers did not turn up for work on Tuesday, as they had not received their November salaries which would have been due by 7 December.
MOM said these workers did not previously approach the ministry on their salary issues.
Sime Chong, assisted by the main sub-contractor Asiabuild, is currently working to pay the outstanding salaries to the affected workers within the next 24 hours, said MOM.
MOM said it takes a serious view of employers who do not comply with Singapore's employment laws.
- CNA/ir
- wong chee tat :)
By Tan Qiuyi/Teo Chia Leen | Posted: 18 December 2012 2233 hrs
SINGAPORE: More than 30 workers - from China and India - at a Yishun construction site were involved in a salary dispute on Tuesday, leading to some of them stopping work to demand their pay.
Channel NewsAsia understands the workers are owed between one and four months' pay each.
The project at the site is a HDB residential development and the company involved is believed to be Sime Chong Construction.
Officials from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) have been in negotiations with the employers and workers on site since about 6pm Tuesday.
Also present were officials from the Migrant Workers' Centre, who told reporters the company has agreed to pay the workers what is owed.
Edmund Ng, executive director of Migrant Workers' Centre, said: "We came here, because we heard there were workers who might be in trouble, and we're here to help. Tonight there may be four workers who will need our help in terms of accommodation. We have a dormitory and we're going to put them in the dormitory tonight. As we speak, the plan is taking shape."
MOM said in a statement that it has been investigating Sime Chong Construction for Employment Act infringements.
The ministry also said that since November 2012 when four workers from China who were working for Sime Chong lodged salary claims at MOM, its labour relations officers have been working to resolve the workers' salary arrears.
MOM said its preliminary investigations show that some 20 Indian workers did not turn up for work on Tuesday, as they had not received their November salaries which would have been due by 7 December.
MOM said these workers did not previously approach the ministry on their salary issues.
Sime Chong, assisted by the main sub-contractor Asiabuild, is currently working to pay the outstanding salaries to the affected workers within the next 24 hours, said MOM.
MOM said it takes a serious view of employers who do not comply with Singapore's employment laws.
- CNA/ir
- wong chee tat :)
25 workers in pay row at Yishun site paid outstanding wages
25 workers in pay row at Yishun site paid outstanding wages
Posted: 19 December 2012 0007 hrs
SINGAPORE: More than 30 workers - from China and India - at a Yishun construction site were involved in a salary dispute on Tuesday, leading to some of them stopping work to demand their pay.
Channel NewsAsia understands the workers are owed between one and four months' pay each.
Ministry of Manpower (MOM) officials were in negotiations with the employers and workers on site since about 6pm Tuesday.
Also present were officials from the Migrant Workers' Centre.
Later Tuesday night, MOM said 25 workers have been paid their outstanding salaries as of 11pm.
Three more will be paid on Wednesday.
MOM is checking on the total number of workers owed their salaries. The Migrant Workers' Centre said more than 30 workers were owed their salaries.
- CNA/ir
- wong chee tat :)
Posted: 19 December 2012 0007 hrs
SINGAPORE: More than 30 workers - from China and India - at a Yishun construction site were involved in a salary dispute on Tuesday, leading to some of them stopping work to demand their pay.
Channel NewsAsia understands the workers are owed between one and four months' pay each.
Ministry of Manpower (MOM) officials were in negotiations with the employers and workers on site since about 6pm Tuesday.
Also present were officials from the Migrant Workers' Centre.
Later Tuesday night, MOM said 25 workers have been paid their outstanding salaries as of 11pm.
Three more will be paid on Wednesday.
MOM is checking on the total number of workers owed their salaries. The Migrant Workers' Centre said more than 30 workers were owed their salaries.
- CNA/ir
- wong chee tat :)
Construction site workers stop work over late payment of pay
Construction site workers stop work over late payment of pay
By Tan Qiuyi | Posted: 18 December 2012 1917 hrs
SINGAPORE: Some workers at a construction site along Yishun Avenue 6 have stopped work because of late payment of salaries.
A Mr Tan, who said he is in charge of Sime Chong Construction, told reporters that four of his workers - all Chinese nationals - had stopped work since 26 November.
He said they are owed between S$1,000 and S$2,000 each for the past three months.
He confirmed the four had complained to the Manpower Ministry on 20 November, after which they had a three-way meeting on 26 November.
Mr Tan added that his car was stolen on Monday and the workers' salaries vouchers were lost. As such, he was unable to pay the workers.
He issued "I-O-Us" to them and said he will settle the payment in the next few days.
He told reporters he has about 80 workers - from India, Bangladesh and China - under him.
He said Sime Chong Construction was set up in October last year.
At 6.05pm, officers from the Manpower Ministry were seen entering the construction site office.
Officials from the Migrant Workers Centre were earlier denied entry, as were the media.
The site's gates were shut after groups of workers were seen leaving.
It is believed the site employs workers from several different companies.
- CNA/ir
- wong chee tat :)
By Tan Qiuyi | Posted: 18 December 2012 1917 hrs
SINGAPORE: Some workers at a construction site along Yishun Avenue 6 have stopped work because of late payment of salaries.
A Mr Tan, who said he is in charge of Sime Chong Construction, told reporters that four of his workers - all Chinese nationals - had stopped work since 26 November.
He said they are owed between S$1,000 and S$2,000 each for the past three months.
He confirmed the four had complained to the Manpower Ministry on 20 November, after which they had a three-way meeting on 26 November.
Mr Tan added that his car was stolen on Monday and the workers' salaries vouchers were lost. As such, he was unable to pay the workers.
He issued "I-O-Us" to them and said he will settle the payment in the next few days.
He told reporters he has about 80 workers - from India, Bangladesh and China - under him.
He said Sime Chong Construction was set up in October last year.
At 6.05pm, officers from the Manpower Ministry were seen entering the construction site office.
Officials from the Migrant Workers Centre were earlier denied entry, as were the media.
The site's gates were shut after groups of workers were seen leaving.
It is believed the site employs workers from several different companies.
- CNA/ir
- wong chee tat :)
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
MOM says term "illegal strike" neither wrong nor prejudicial
MOM says term "illegal strike" neither wrong nor prejudicial
Posted: 17 December 2012 2133 hrs
SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Manpower has refuted civil society group Function 8's accusations that the use of the term "illegal strike" to describe the actions of SMRT bus drivers in late November is wrong and prejudicial.
The ministry's spokesperson added the "serious accusations" are "entirely baseless".
Four SMRT workers were charged in court last month with instigating the incident, which took place over a pay dispute.
Early this month, another driver was charged in court and sentenced to six weeks' jail after he admitted to taking part in the incident.
In an earlier statement to the media, Function 8 said the workers were "doomed from the start" and called a stop to the use of the term "illegal strike".
The group added the term gives the impression that what the bus drivers had done was "illegal" and that there was indeed a "strike".
It said since the cases have not been determined by the court, it is "grievously wrong and prejudicial" to the bus drivers to label their action as such.
Function 8 also said that the ministry is commenting on a pending case and such comments are sub judice and constitute contempt of court.
It also said repeated claims that the drivers had participated in an "illegal strike" amount to prejudging their case and can only be calculated to influence the decision of the judge.
But MOM said the government, including Acting Manpower Minister Tan Chuan-Jin and the Manpower Ministry, has never attempted to prejudice the case.
They added that Part III of the Criminal Law (Temporary Provisions) Act or CLTPA clearly outlines that strike action taken in respect of essential services such as public transport is deemed illegal, unless 14 days' notice has been given.
It was with that in mind that Acting Manpower Minister Tan Chuan-Jin used the term "illegal strike".
MOM also pointed out that Mr Tan referred to workers participating in the strike in general.
He did not refer to the participation of any particular worker, or to any matter pending before a court of law.
In its statement, Function 8 had also questioned why MOM had revoked the work passes of 29 bus drivers so swiftly.
It also asked why it did not allow them legal representation or give them an opportunity to be heard.
Clarifying the incident, MOM said the 29 bus drivers were provided with an opportunity to be heard in relation to their conduct during the strike.
The ministry said the work permits were only revoked after due consideration by the Controller of Work Passes.
It added there is no requirement for legal representation in such a process, and no request was made in this regard by any of the 29 workers.
- CNA/jc
- wong chee tat :)
Posted: 17 December 2012 2133 hrs
SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Manpower has refuted civil society group Function 8's accusations that the use of the term "illegal strike" to describe the actions of SMRT bus drivers in late November is wrong and prejudicial.
The ministry's spokesperson added the "serious accusations" are "entirely baseless".
Four SMRT workers were charged in court last month with instigating the incident, which took place over a pay dispute.
Early this month, another driver was charged in court and sentenced to six weeks' jail after he admitted to taking part in the incident.
In an earlier statement to the media, Function 8 said the workers were "doomed from the start" and called a stop to the use of the term "illegal strike".
The group added the term gives the impression that what the bus drivers had done was "illegal" and that there was indeed a "strike".
It said since the cases have not been determined by the court, it is "grievously wrong and prejudicial" to the bus drivers to label their action as such.
Function 8 also said that the ministry is commenting on a pending case and such comments are sub judice and constitute contempt of court.
It also said repeated claims that the drivers had participated in an "illegal strike" amount to prejudging their case and can only be calculated to influence the decision of the judge.
But MOM said the government, including Acting Manpower Minister Tan Chuan-Jin and the Manpower Ministry, has never attempted to prejudice the case.
They added that Part III of the Criminal Law (Temporary Provisions) Act or CLTPA clearly outlines that strike action taken in respect of essential services such as public transport is deemed illegal, unless 14 days' notice has been given.
It was with that in mind that Acting Manpower Minister Tan Chuan-Jin used the term "illegal strike".
MOM also pointed out that Mr Tan referred to workers participating in the strike in general.
He did not refer to the participation of any particular worker, or to any matter pending before a court of law.
In its statement, Function 8 had also questioned why MOM had revoked the work passes of 29 bus drivers so swiftly.
It also asked why it did not allow them legal representation or give them an opportunity to be heard.
Clarifying the incident, MOM said the 29 bus drivers were provided with an opportunity to be heard in relation to their conduct during the strike.
The ministry said the work permits were only revoked after due consideration by the Controller of Work Passes.
It added there is no requirement for legal representation in such a process, and no request was made in this regard by any of the 29 workers.
- CNA/jc
- wong chee tat :)
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Pre-trial conference for ex-SMRT bus drivers set for 19 Dec
Pre-trial conference for ex-SMRT bus drivers set for 19 Dec
By Sara Grosse | Posted: 12 December 2012 1417 hrs
SINGAPORE: The four ex-SMRT bus drivers from China charged with instigating an illegal strike in late November were back in court on Wednesday.
Their lawyers told the court that they need more time to take full instructions from their clients as the men were only released on bail on 6 December.
The four lawyers are acting for the former SMRT bus drivers on a pro-bono basis.
Mr Peter Low, whose client He Jun Ling faces two charges, said two of the lawyers involved in the case were approached by a non-governmental organization here.
A pre-trial conference date for 19 December has been set.
But lawyers said this is not an indication that their clients will claim trial.
There are three options on the table at the moment - to claim trial, plead guilty, or make representations to the Deputy Public Prosecutor (DPP) to reduce the charges.
A pre-trial conference will also ensure that the judge has more time to consider the specific needs of each case and administer directions.
The drivers are out on bail and their passports have been impounded.
The remaining two drivers - Gao Yue Qiang is being represented by Ms Tan Wen Hsien from Rajah and Tann while Wang Xian Jie is being represented by Mr Derek Kang from Rodyk and Davidson.
He is out on bail of S$20,000 while the rest are out on bail of S$10,000 each. Their passports have been impounded.
- CNA/ck
- wong chee tat :)
By Sara Grosse | Posted: 12 December 2012 1417 hrs
SINGAPORE: The four ex-SMRT bus drivers from China charged with instigating an illegal strike in late November were back in court on Wednesday.
Their lawyers told the court that they need more time to take full instructions from their clients as the men were only released on bail on 6 December.
The four lawyers are acting for the former SMRT bus drivers on a pro-bono basis.
Mr Peter Low, whose client He Jun Ling faces two charges, said two of the lawyers involved in the case were approached by a non-governmental organization here.
A pre-trial conference date for 19 December has been set.
But lawyers said this is not an indication that their clients will claim trial.
There are three options on the table at the moment - to claim trial, plead guilty, or make representations to the Deputy Public Prosecutor (DPP) to reduce the charges.
A pre-trial conference will also ensure that the judge has more time to consider the specific needs of each case and administer directions.
The drivers are out on bail and their passports have been impounded.
The remaining two drivers - Gao Yue Qiang is being represented by Ms Tan Wen Hsien from Rajah and Tann while Wang Xian Jie is being represented by Mr Derek Kang from Rodyk and Davidson.
He is out on bail of S$20,000 while the rest are out on bail of S$10,000 each. Their passports have been impounded.
- CNA/ck
- wong chee tat :)
Hong Kong plans to raise minimum wage
Hong Kong plans to raise minimum wage
Posted: 12 December 2012 2211 hrs
HONG KONG: Hong Kong plans to raise the city's minimum wage to HK$30 (US$3.87) an hour, a minister said Wednesday, in a hike slammed by labour groups as inadequate for the Asian financial hub.
Labour minister Matthew Cheung said the raise represents a 7.1 percent increase from the HK$28 pay per hour at present, which was introduced in May last year partly to tackle a widening income gap between the rich and poor.
"(The new rate) will be effective from May 1 next year if it is approved by the legislative council," Cheung told reporters, adding that around 320,000 workers are expected to benefit from the adjustment.
Critics however said the raise was too small to cover inflation and the high cost of living in Hong Kong, which is one of the world's most expensive city to live in with its sky-high property prices.
"We are not satisfied with the government proposal and think the hike is unreasonable," Labour Party chairman Lee Cheuk-yan said.
The city introduced the controversial pay floor for the first time last year after fierce opposition from employers.
Known for its stunningly wealthy tycoons, the southern Chinese city is also home to hundreds of thousands of workers who live on hourly wages sometimes as low as US$2 an hour prior to the introduction of the minimum wage.
Hong Kong's inflation rose 5.3 percent year-on-year in 2011, and may gain 3.9 percent this year according to a government forecast.
- AFP/lp
- wong chee tat :)
Posted: 12 December 2012 2211 hrs
HONG KONG: Hong Kong plans to raise the city's minimum wage to HK$30 (US$3.87) an hour, a minister said Wednesday, in a hike slammed by labour groups as inadequate for the Asian financial hub.
Labour minister Matthew Cheung said the raise represents a 7.1 percent increase from the HK$28 pay per hour at present, which was introduced in May last year partly to tackle a widening income gap between the rich and poor.
"(The new rate) will be effective from May 1 next year if it is approved by the legislative council," Cheung told reporters, adding that around 320,000 workers are expected to benefit from the adjustment.
Critics however said the raise was too small to cover inflation and the high cost of living in Hong Kong, which is one of the world's most expensive city to live in with its sky-high property prices.
"We are not satisfied with the government proposal and think the hike is unreasonable," Labour Party chairman Lee Cheuk-yan said.
The city introduced the controversial pay floor for the first time last year after fierce opposition from employers.
Known for its stunningly wealthy tycoons, the southern Chinese city is also home to hundreds of thousands of workers who live on hourly wages sometimes as low as US$2 an hour prior to the introduction of the minimum wage.
Hong Kong's inflation rose 5.3 percent year-on-year in 2011, and may gain 3.9 percent this year according to a government forecast.
- AFP/lp
- wong chee tat :)
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Pay increment, bonus for 2013 expected to dip: report
Pay increment, bonus for 2013 expected to dip: report
By Imelda Saad, Dylan Loh | Posted: 10 December 2012 1702 hrs
SINGAPORE: Global consulting firm Hay Group has predicted cautious pay rises for Singaporean workers as 2012 comes to a close.
In its latest report, the group said pay increases and bonuses for next year are expected to slide.
Hay Group said salary increases averaged 4.6 per cent this year - slightly higher than the 4.4 per cent in 2011. But pay increases for next year are expected to dip 0.2 percentage points back to 4.4 per cent.
The Singapore Human Resources Institute agreed, saying increments will hover around 4 per cent.
The Institute expects the manufacturing, construction and logistics sectors to face a tighter squeeze.
The Institute's executive director, David Ang, said: "For those company who are not doing well, and it's sort of breaking even.
"I think the important thing is to inform the workers on the prospect of their business and at the same time collectively bite the bullets to hope for better times to come."
As for bonuses, the actual average variable bonus this year is said to be 2.6 months. For next year, it is expected to dip slightly to 2.5 months.
The Hay Group said hiring seems to have picked up in Singapore, despite the continuing uncertainty in the global economy.
Fifty-eight per cent of those surveyed said they are planning to increase staffing levels, compared to 50 per cent this time, last year.
But economist Dr Tan Khay Boon from SIM Global Education said this does not mean firms will splurge on hiring.
Dr Tan said: "The company want to meet the demand for the customers and therefore they need more workers to help them out in the operations. But, they are also very careful about the bottom-line.
"That's why they prefer to hire the worker at the same cost or better still, at the lower cost instead of expanding the cost to get the workers."
Leading the hiring outlook in the survey are the engineering (33 per cent), sales (29 per cent) and financial (21 per cent) sectors.
Turning to the region, the Hay group said high-growth Asian economies like China, Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines can expect significant pay rises in 2013.
The survey, conducted in September, covered over 500 Singapore-based companies from both the private and public sectors.
They were polled on their business sentiments and salary and bonus projections for the next 12 months.
- CNA/ck/lp
- wong chee tat :)
By Imelda Saad, Dylan Loh | Posted: 10 December 2012 1702 hrs
SINGAPORE: Global consulting firm Hay Group has predicted cautious pay rises for Singaporean workers as 2012 comes to a close.
In its latest report, the group said pay increases and bonuses for next year are expected to slide.
Hay Group said salary increases averaged 4.6 per cent this year - slightly higher than the 4.4 per cent in 2011. But pay increases for next year are expected to dip 0.2 percentage points back to 4.4 per cent.
The Singapore Human Resources Institute agreed, saying increments will hover around 4 per cent.
The Institute expects the manufacturing, construction and logistics sectors to face a tighter squeeze.
The Institute's executive director, David Ang, said: "For those company who are not doing well, and it's sort of breaking even.
"I think the important thing is to inform the workers on the prospect of their business and at the same time collectively bite the bullets to hope for better times to come."
As for bonuses, the actual average variable bonus this year is said to be 2.6 months. For next year, it is expected to dip slightly to 2.5 months.
The Hay Group said hiring seems to have picked up in Singapore, despite the continuing uncertainty in the global economy.
Fifty-eight per cent of those surveyed said they are planning to increase staffing levels, compared to 50 per cent this time, last year.
But economist Dr Tan Khay Boon from SIM Global Education said this does not mean firms will splurge on hiring.
Dr Tan said: "The company want to meet the demand for the customers and therefore they need more workers to help them out in the operations. But, they are also very careful about the bottom-line.
"That's why they prefer to hire the worker at the same cost or better still, at the lower cost instead of expanding the cost to get the workers."
Leading the hiring outlook in the survey are the engineering (33 per cent), sales (29 per cent) and financial (21 per cent) sectors.
Turning to the region, the Hay group said high-growth Asian economies like China, Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines can expect significant pay rises in 2013.
The survey, conducted in September, covered over 500 Singapore-based companies from both the private and public sectors.
They were polled on their business sentiments and salary and bonus projections for the next 12 months.
- CNA/ck/lp
- wong chee tat :)
Raising fares to improve bus drivers' pay "should be last resort"
Raising fares to improve bus drivers' pay "should be last resort"
By Kimberly Spykerman | Posted: 10 December 2012 2117 hrs
SINGAPORE: Industry observers say transport operators should look at alternative ways to raise the salaries of bus drivers.
Passing the buck to commuters should be the last resort, say observers.
They are commenting on Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew's suggestion that bus fares may go up in future to help improve the wages of bus drivers and that the public transport fare review, due next year, will consider this issue.
It's not easy getting Singaporeans to come on board as bus drivers.
So salary increments might make the job more appealing.
The question is: who will foot the bill?
Some industry observers said it should not be assumed that commuters will have to bear the additional costs as the two public transport operators remain profitable.
"So, from the passengers' side and the general public point of view, it may be difficult for them to swallow," said Professor Lee Der-Horng, an associate professor at the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore (NUS).
"...if they can first of all pursue their internal resources and try to improve their operations and see if they can further cut down operating costs, then perhaps, it wouldn't be necessary to approach the public and seek an increase in public transportation fare."
MP Gan Thiam Poh, who is also a member of the Government Parliamentary Committee (GPC) for Transport, said: "I feel strongly that the operators should try to explore or exhaust other means, such as other revenue, such as revenue coming from advertisements, rental or whatever...I think passing on (the costs) to consumer, that should be the last resort."
But even if salaries for bus drivers are raised, it might not be enough to get Singaporeans to bite.
Industry observers say that the long hours, rigorous work and the desire to have a job of higher value are among the main reasons Singaporeans shun the job.
Hence, a dependency on foreign manpower in this area might become unavoidable.
According to the chairman of the Public Transport Council, Gerard Ee, Singapore also lacks the body count and has an ageing workforce. That is why it must look to foreign manpower to fill the gaps in certain essential industries.
"Some jobs are just not popular, and as long as people have choices, they will give it a miss," said Mr Ee.
Industry observers also suggested that the operators look beyond Malaysia and China when hiring bus drivers, "so we will not be overly-reliant on a particular country or a particular region", said NUS' Professor Lee.
Suggestions to nationalise public transport have been raised but some observers said that this could result in inefficiencies and a drop in service levels.
- CNA/ir
- wong chee tat :)
By Kimberly Spykerman | Posted: 10 December 2012 2117 hrs
SINGAPORE: Industry observers say transport operators should look at alternative ways to raise the salaries of bus drivers.
Passing the buck to commuters should be the last resort, say observers.
They are commenting on Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew's suggestion that bus fares may go up in future to help improve the wages of bus drivers and that the public transport fare review, due next year, will consider this issue.
It's not easy getting Singaporeans to come on board as bus drivers.
So salary increments might make the job more appealing.
The question is: who will foot the bill?
Some industry observers said it should not be assumed that commuters will have to bear the additional costs as the two public transport operators remain profitable.
"So, from the passengers' side and the general public point of view, it may be difficult for them to swallow," said Professor Lee Der-Horng, an associate professor at the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore (NUS).
"...if they can first of all pursue their internal resources and try to improve their operations and see if they can further cut down operating costs, then perhaps, it wouldn't be necessary to approach the public and seek an increase in public transportation fare."
MP Gan Thiam Poh, who is also a member of the Government Parliamentary Committee (GPC) for Transport, said: "I feel strongly that the operators should try to explore or exhaust other means, such as other revenue, such as revenue coming from advertisements, rental or whatever...I think passing on (the costs) to consumer, that should be the last resort."
But even if salaries for bus drivers are raised, it might not be enough to get Singaporeans to bite.
Industry observers say that the long hours, rigorous work and the desire to have a job of higher value are among the main reasons Singaporeans shun the job.
Hence, a dependency on foreign manpower in this area might become unavoidable.
According to the chairman of the Public Transport Council, Gerard Ee, Singapore also lacks the body count and has an ageing workforce. That is why it must look to foreign manpower to fill the gaps in certain essential industries.
"Some jobs are just not popular, and as long as people have choices, they will give it a miss," said Mr Ee.
Industry observers also suggested that the operators look beyond Malaysia and China when hiring bus drivers, "so we will not be overly-reliant on a particular country or a particular region", said NUS' Professor Lee.
Suggestions to nationalise public transport have been raised but some observers said that this could result in inefficiencies and a drop in service levels.
- CNA/ir
- wong chee tat :)
Monday, December 10, 2012
Supply of Indonesian maids expected to fall next year
Supply of Indonesian maids expected to fall next year
By Seet Sok Hwee, Karen Ng | Posted: 09 December 2012 2145 hrs
SINGAPORE: Maid agencies expect the number of Indonesian maids coming to work in Singapore to drop by 30 per cent, once the minimum wage for all Indonesians kicks in next month.
With the minimum wage, salaries for those working in Jakarta can go up to S$300 per month.
This may cause the maids to choose to work in Jakarta instead of Singapore.
Some domestic helpers from Indonesia say they enjoy better labour benefits there.
Besides, it is closer to their hometown and the cost of living there is not as high as in Singapore.
Maid agencies say Singaporeans should pay their maids more to make it more attractive for them to come here to work.
From January, all foreign maids in Singapore will be getting one mandatory day off per week instead of having no days off.
Some employers say they would rather pay more to their maids - to get them to work on their rest days.
"The employers themselves are working. So we do know, due to some feedback, they would like to have their own rest day during the weekend," said Carene Chin, executive director of Homekeeper Maid Agency.
"So (employers) don't mind paying extra to compensate the maid to have their rest day."
There are maids who welcome the chance to earn more money.
"I prefer to work. One day (off), one time in one month is ok for me already. So I can send more money to my family," said a maid working in Singapore.
- CNA/xq
- wong chee tat :)
By Seet Sok Hwee, Karen Ng | Posted: 09 December 2012 2145 hrs
SINGAPORE: Maid agencies expect the number of Indonesian maids coming to work in Singapore to drop by 30 per cent, once the minimum wage for all Indonesians kicks in next month.
With the minimum wage, salaries for those working in Jakarta can go up to S$300 per month.
This may cause the maids to choose to work in Jakarta instead of Singapore.
Some domestic helpers from Indonesia say they enjoy better labour benefits there.
Besides, it is closer to their hometown and the cost of living there is not as high as in Singapore.
Maid agencies say Singaporeans should pay their maids more to make it more attractive for them to come here to work.
From January, all foreign maids in Singapore will be getting one mandatory day off per week instead of having no days off.
Some employers say they would rather pay more to their maids - to get them to work on their rest days.
"The employers themselves are working. So we do know, due to some feedback, they would like to have their own rest day during the weekend," said Carene Chin, executive director of Homekeeper Maid Agency.
"So (employers) don't mind paying extra to compensate the maid to have their rest day."
There are maids who welcome the chance to earn more money.
"I prefer to work. One day (off), one time in one month is ok for me already. So I can send more money to my family," said a maid working in Singapore.
- CNA/xq
- wong chee tat :)
Friday, December 7, 2012
MOM says Jurong crane incident workers had approached ministry for help
MOM says Jurong crane incident workers had approached ministry for help
By S Ramesh | Posted: 06 December 2012 2053 hrs
SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said the two workers from China involved in a crane incident at Jurong Port Road on Thursday morning had approached the ministry previously.
The two construction workers, Mr Zhu Guilei and Mr Wu Xiaolin, were at the top of the crane at a construction site at 31, Jurong Port Road, citing unhappiness with their employer Zhong Jiang (Singapore) International Pte Ltd.
In a statement, MOM said Mr Zhu had first come to the Ministry in July 2011 to enquire how he and his friend could resign and return home.
Mr Zhu was then working for a different company.
On Wednesday, Mr Zhu approached MOM's customer relations officers at the MOM Services Centre together with Mr Wu, as they had tendered their resignations and planned to return home.
They claimed they had outstanding salaries owed to them. However, they did not have the necessary documents to support their claims.
MOM officers asked them to return with the documents so that the ministry could investigate, and both Mr Zhu and Mr Wu had agreed to do so.
The MOM has stressed that it will not hesitate to take action against employers who fail to pay their workers on time.
And it urges workers not to take matters into their own hands and break the law. Those facing employment issues should approach MOM for advice and assistance. They can also call the MOM hotline at 6438 5122.
Separately in a statement, the Migrant Workers' Centre (MWC) said it is dismayed to hear of the protest by two migrant workers at Jurong Port Road on Thursday morning, especially in the light of recent developments.
Its Chairman Yeo Guat Kwang said this was a further reminder of the need to expand our outreach and engagement with migrant workers to raise their awareness of channels of help available to them.
- CNA/de
- wong chee tat :)
By S Ramesh | Posted: 06 December 2012 2053 hrs
SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said the two workers from China involved in a crane incident at Jurong Port Road on Thursday morning had approached the ministry previously.
The two construction workers, Mr Zhu Guilei and Mr Wu Xiaolin, were at the top of the crane at a construction site at 31, Jurong Port Road, citing unhappiness with their employer Zhong Jiang (Singapore) International Pte Ltd.
In a statement, MOM said Mr Zhu had first come to the Ministry in July 2011 to enquire how he and his friend could resign and return home.
Mr Zhu was then working for a different company.
On Wednesday, Mr Zhu approached MOM's customer relations officers at the MOM Services Centre together with Mr Wu, as they had tendered their resignations and planned to return home.
They claimed they had outstanding salaries owed to them. However, they did not have the necessary documents to support their claims.
MOM officers asked them to return with the documents so that the ministry could investigate, and both Mr Zhu and Mr Wu had agreed to do so.
The MOM has stressed that it will not hesitate to take action against employers who fail to pay their workers on time.
And it urges workers not to take matters into their own hands and break the law. Those facing employment issues should approach MOM for advice and assistance. They can also call the MOM hotline at 6438 5122.
Separately in a statement, the Migrant Workers' Centre (MWC) said it is dismayed to hear of the protest by two migrant workers at Jurong Port Road on Thursday morning, especially in the light of recent developments.
Its Chairman Yeo Guat Kwang said this was a further reminder of the need to expand our outreach and engagement with migrant workers to raise their awareness of channels of help available to them.
- CNA/de
- wong chee tat :)
1 of 2 China workers perched atop crane escorted down
1 of 2 China workers perched atop crane escorted down
By Sara Grosse | Posted: 06 December 2012 1431 hrs
SINGAPORE: One of the two workers from China who sat for hours on top of a crane at a construction site in Jurong Port Road was escorted down by Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) officer at about 2pm on Thursday.
The man and another worker are believed to be protesting over a wage dispute.
Police said they were alerted about the incident at about 6.35am at 31 Jurong Port Road.
A spokesman from the SCDF said each man was perched up on a crane, which is about 10 storeys high.
Officials from the Ministry of Manpower are at the scene.
- CNA/ck
- wong chee tat :)
By Sara Grosse | Posted: 06 December 2012 1431 hrs
SINGAPORE: One of the two workers from China who sat for hours on top of a crane at a construction site in Jurong Port Road was escorted down by Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) officer at about 2pm on Thursday.
The man and another worker are believed to be protesting over a wage dispute.
Police said they were alerted about the incident at about 6.35am at 31 Jurong Port Road.
A spokesman from the SCDF said each man was perched up on a crane, which is about 10 storeys high.
Officials from the Ministry of Manpower are at the scene.
- CNA/ck
- wong chee tat :)
Two China workers arrested after standoff at construction site
Two China workers arrested after standoff at construction site
By Sara Grosse/Alice Chia | Posted: 06 December 2012 1600 hrs
SINGAPORE: Police have arrested two workers from China for unlawfully remaining on top of construction cranes at a construction site in Jurong and intentionally causing alarm.
The Ministry of Manpower says the two men, Mr Zhu Guilei and Mr Wu Xiaolin, were unhappy with their employer Zhong Jiang (Singapore) International Pte Ltd over salaries.
Since 6.30am, the workers were seen on top of the construction cranes at a work site near No 31, Jurong Port Road.
The workers remained on separate cranes, which are about 10 storeys high.
By afternoon, the heat was noticeable. Still, the workers did not get down from the cranes.
The Police Crisis Negotiation Unit was activated to get the two men down to safety.
Shortly after 2pm, SCDF officers were seen climbing up one of the cranes.
After some coaxing, one of the workers began to make his way down.
The second worker continued to stay on top of his crane for the next hour.
After it started to rain, SCDF officers began climbing up the second crane.
Eventually, the second worker got down from the crane at about 3.30pm.
Both men were seen being escorted by SCDF officers after they reached the foot of the crane.
The two workers had previously approached the Ministry of Manpower and claimed they had outstanding salaries owed to them.
However, the MOM said the workers did not have the necessary documents to support these claims.
MOM officers had asked them to return with the documents so they could investigate. The workers had agreed to do so.
Police said if convicted, the workers can expect to face imprisonment, fine or both.
On the incident, the Migrant Workers' Centre called for more outreach with migrant workers so that they can be made aware of channels of help available to them.
Mr Yeo Guat Kwang, Chairman of Migrant Workers' Centre (MWC) said: "We have contacted the Ministry of Manpower about the case and on our hope that they are given a fair opportunity to air their grievances. In the meantime, we are confident that MOM will be able to achieve an outcome, with the workers and their employers, which is satisfactory to all concerned.
"We would like to assure the workers that the MWC will monitor the developments in this case and will step in to assist them if the need arises. We are gravely concerned about the interests and welfare of our migrant workers, and would like to reiterate our call to them to abide by established channels of assistance, either through MOM, MWC or any other migrant organisation set up to champion their welfare, and not to take matters into their own hands."
- CNA/ck/de
- wong chee tat :)
By Sara Grosse/Alice Chia | Posted: 06 December 2012 1600 hrs
SINGAPORE: Police have arrested two workers from China for unlawfully remaining on top of construction cranes at a construction site in Jurong and intentionally causing alarm.
The Ministry of Manpower says the two men, Mr Zhu Guilei and Mr Wu Xiaolin, were unhappy with their employer Zhong Jiang (Singapore) International Pte Ltd over salaries.
Since 6.30am, the workers were seen on top of the construction cranes at a work site near No 31, Jurong Port Road.
The workers remained on separate cranes, which are about 10 storeys high.
By afternoon, the heat was noticeable. Still, the workers did not get down from the cranes.
The Police Crisis Negotiation Unit was activated to get the two men down to safety.
Shortly after 2pm, SCDF officers were seen climbing up one of the cranes.
After some coaxing, one of the workers began to make his way down.
The second worker continued to stay on top of his crane for the next hour.
After it started to rain, SCDF officers began climbing up the second crane.
Eventually, the second worker got down from the crane at about 3.30pm.
Both men were seen being escorted by SCDF officers after they reached the foot of the crane.
The two workers had previously approached the Ministry of Manpower and claimed they had outstanding salaries owed to them.
However, the MOM said the workers did not have the necessary documents to support these claims.
MOM officers had asked them to return with the documents so they could investigate. The workers had agreed to do so.
Police said if convicted, the workers can expect to face imprisonment, fine or both.
On the incident, the Migrant Workers' Centre called for more outreach with migrant workers so that they can be made aware of channels of help available to them.
Mr Yeo Guat Kwang, Chairman of Migrant Workers' Centre (MWC) said: "We have contacted the Ministry of Manpower about the case and on our hope that they are given a fair opportunity to air their grievances. In the meantime, we are confident that MOM will be able to achieve an outcome, with the workers and their employers, which is satisfactory to all concerned.
"We would like to assure the workers that the MWC will monitor the developments in this case and will step in to assist them if the need arises. We are gravely concerned about the interests and welfare of our migrant workers, and would like to reiterate our call to them to abide by established channels of assistance, either through MOM, MWC or any other migrant organisation set up to champion their welfare, and not to take matters into their own hands."
- CNA/ck/de
- wong chee tat :)
Protest by HK trade unions over SMRT strike "highly regrettable", says NTUC chief
Protest by HK trade unions over SMRT strike "highly regrettable", says NTUC chief
By Vimita Mohandas | Posted: 06 December 2012 1536 hrs
SINGAPORE: Labour chief Lim Swee Say said on Thursday the protest by the Hong Kong Confederation of Trade Unions (HKCTU) over the illegal strike by SMRT bus drivers from China is highly regrettable.
Mr Lim was speaking on the sidelines of the Labour Movement Workplan Seminar on Thursday.
Some 20 members of the HKCTU held a protest outside the Singapore Consulate in Hong Kong on Wednesday.
The confederation had said Singapore did not respect the basic rights of workers who go on strike.
It also accused Singapore of not conforming to equal remuneration for its workers.
The union called on the Singapore government to reinstate the 29 drivers who were repatriated, and to drop the charges against the five who were detained.
Mr Lim, who is Secretary-General of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), said that it is highly inappropriate for unions of other countries to dictate what another country should do.
Mr Lim said: "We, as a labour movement, NTUC, we will not dictate what Hong Kong, the government or trade unions should do because why? We should respect that each country has its own different circumstances.
"All workers regardless of nationalities must respect the law of the land. I'm sure in Hong Kong, they expect their workers to follow the law of their land as well."
He urged management, union and workers to strengthen communications and pertnerships to ensure that workers are treated fairly.
Mr Lim added that the strike could have been avoided.
He added: "If the management can respect and recognise the role of the union and when the union and management work together with the workers, I think it's a much better way in ensuring we can take care of the interest of the workers, business, and thereby able to serve the public commuters better."
On a separate issue, Mr Yeo Guat Kwang, who is chairman of the Migrant Workers' Centre, said more help will be given to the 89 workers who were injured in the Jurong shipyard rig accident.
Besides counselling sessions, they will also be given a free phone set with a prepaid phonecard to enable them to contact their loved ones.
- CNA/de
- wong chee tat ;)
By Vimita Mohandas | Posted: 06 December 2012 1536 hrs
SINGAPORE: Labour chief Lim Swee Say said on Thursday the protest by the Hong Kong Confederation of Trade Unions (HKCTU) over the illegal strike by SMRT bus drivers from China is highly regrettable.
Mr Lim was speaking on the sidelines of the Labour Movement Workplan Seminar on Thursday.
Some 20 members of the HKCTU held a protest outside the Singapore Consulate in Hong Kong on Wednesday.
The confederation had said Singapore did not respect the basic rights of workers who go on strike.
It also accused Singapore of not conforming to equal remuneration for its workers.
The union called on the Singapore government to reinstate the 29 drivers who were repatriated, and to drop the charges against the five who were detained.
Mr Lim, who is Secretary-General of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), said that it is highly inappropriate for unions of other countries to dictate what another country should do.
Mr Lim said: "We, as a labour movement, NTUC, we will not dictate what Hong Kong, the government or trade unions should do because why? We should respect that each country has its own different circumstances.
"All workers regardless of nationalities must respect the law of the land. I'm sure in Hong Kong, they expect their workers to follow the law of their land as well."
He urged management, union and workers to strengthen communications and pertnerships to ensure that workers are treated fairly.
Mr Lim added that the strike could have been avoided.
He added: "If the management can respect and recognise the role of the union and when the union and management work together with the workers, I think it's a much better way in ensuring we can take care of the interest of the workers, business, and thereby able to serve the public commuters better."
On a separate issue, Mr Yeo Guat Kwang, who is chairman of the Migrant Workers' Centre, said more help will be given to the 89 workers who were injured in the Jurong shipyard rig accident.
Besides counselling sessions, they will also be given a free phone set with a prepaid phonecard to enable them to contact their loved ones.
- CNA/de
- wong chee tat ;)
Public transport fare review to take into account bus drivers' wage increase
Public transport fare review to take into account bus drivers' wage increase
By Dylan Loh | Posted: 06 December 2012 1626 hrs
SINGAPORE: Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew said on Thursday public transport fare review, due next year, will take into account the need to raise bus drivers' wages.
Mr Lui was speaking for the first time in the aftermath of the illegal strike by bus drivers from China last week, and said public transport cost increases over the years have outpaced fare adjustments.
He was trying out the route of a new service on Thursday under the government's billion-dollar Bus Service Enhancement Programme.
Mr Lui said the 34 Chinese bus drivers out of work from SMRT due to the strike make up only about 0.5 per cent of the total pool of 8,000-odd drivers.
Therefore, the impact on bus enhancements should be minimal.
What's of concern, however, is the lingering effect of the strike on recruitment and retention of bus drivers, and Mr Lui said the government is watching this carefully.
Looking at public transport fare adjustments of past years, Mr Lui said while fares have increased by 0.3 per cent, costs in fuel and wages for instance have gone up by 30 per cent.
He said the fare review committee recognises this "significant mismatch".
Mr Lui said: "Any fare adjustment will allow the two operators to have more resources, in time to come, to make further salary adjustments to their drivers. We recognise that the drivers need to be paid more. (The) question is, where is that money coming from?
"So we need to see the relationship between any fare adjustment, wage increase, and any other forms of government support that we might be required to give to the operators."
Mr Lui said it is difficult to wean dependence off foreign bus drivers as Singaporeans may not want to take up the job.
So salary adjustments, at least, will make the occupation more attractive to locals.
He said previous salary adjustments have helped to increase the recruitment of drivers, both local and foreign.
When asked whether SMRT should face any penalty as a result of the strike, Mr Lui said the operator will be evaluated according to quality of service standards.
Impact on bus services as a result of the two-day strike will be taken into account.
Mr Lui said he also spoke to SMRT's Chief Executive Desmond Kuek on the strike, and said the organisation needs to improve in many areas.
He said Mr Kuek needs to be given time to turn things around.
From December 16, two new SBS Transit bus services will start plying under the Bus Service Enhancement Programme.
Service 50, which will start service on December 16, will cover Ang Mo Kio, Yio Chu Kang, Sengkang and Punggol.
Express Service 513 will start on December 17, connecting residents of Tampines to the Central Business District. This service only runs during the morning and evening peak period on weekdays.
In addition, four new bus services will be added to the bus network in the first quarter of 2013.
Three of them come under the government's enhancement programme, while the other is a trunk service by SBS Transit at its own cost.
- CNA/de
- wong chee tat :)
By Dylan Loh | Posted: 06 December 2012 1626 hrs
SINGAPORE: Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew said on Thursday public transport fare review, due next year, will take into account the need to raise bus drivers' wages.
Mr Lui was speaking for the first time in the aftermath of the illegal strike by bus drivers from China last week, and said public transport cost increases over the years have outpaced fare adjustments.
He was trying out the route of a new service on Thursday under the government's billion-dollar Bus Service Enhancement Programme.
Mr Lui said the 34 Chinese bus drivers out of work from SMRT due to the strike make up only about 0.5 per cent of the total pool of 8,000-odd drivers.
Therefore, the impact on bus enhancements should be minimal.
What's of concern, however, is the lingering effect of the strike on recruitment and retention of bus drivers, and Mr Lui said the government is watching this carefully.
Looking at public transport fare adjustments of past years, Mr Lui said while fares have increased by 0.3 per cent, costs in fuel and wages for instance have gone up by 30 per cent.
He said the fare review committee recognises this "significant mismatch".
Mr Lui said: "Any fare adjustment will allow the two operators to have more resources, in time to come, to make further salary adjustments to their drivers. We recognise that the drivers need to be paid more. (The) question is, where is that money coming from?
"So we need to see the relationship between any fare adjustment, wage increase, and any other forms of government support that we might be required to give to the operators."
Mr Lui said it is difficult to wean dependence off foreign bus drivers as Singaporeans may not want to take up the job.
So salary adjustments, at least, will make the occupation more attractive to locals.
He said previous salary adjustments have helped to increase the recruitment of drivers, both local and foreign.
When asked whether SMRT should face any penalty as a result of the strike, Mr Lui said the operator will be evaluated according to quality of service standards.
Impact on bus services as a result of the two-day strike will be taken into account.
Mr Lui said he also spoke to SMRT's Chief Executive Desmond Kuek on the strike, and said the organisation needs to improve in many areas.
He said Mr Kuek needs to be given time to turn things around.
From December 16, two new SBS Transit bus services will start plying under the Bus Service Enhancement Programme.
Service 50, which will start service on December 16, will cover Ang Mo Kio, Yio Chu Kang, Sengkang and Punggol.
Express Service 513 will start on December 17, connecting residents of Tampines to the Central Business District. This service only runs during the morning and evening peak period on weekdays.
In addition, four new bus services will be added to the bus network in the first quarter of 2013.
Three of them come under the government's enhancement programme, while the other is a trunk service by SBS Transit at its own cost.
- CNA/de
- wong chee tat :)
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Survey shows Singapore in bottom 10 of salary rise rankings
Survey shows Singapore in bottom 10 of salary rise rankings
By Mok Fei Fei, Channel NewsAsia
SINGAPORE: Employees in Singapore will see some of the lowest pay rises this year compared to their counterparts in other places.
A survey of 53 jurisdictions by London-based research company ECA International has placed Singapore in the bottom 10 of the salary rise rankings.
Singapore was in joint 43rd spot, along with France and Hong Kong.
Salaries in these three places are expected to increase by two per cent this year.
Japan was the lowest-ranked, with half of the companies in the economy planning to freeze salaries.
A quarter of the world's companies, and 40 per cent of those in the US, plan to freeze salaries this year.
But there are bright spots in other parts of the world.
Employees in Venezuela, Argentina and India can look forward to the most robust double-digit pay rises.
Globally, average salaries are likely to increase 4.7 per cent this year, down from a 6.2 per cent rise in 2008.
- AFP/yt
- wong chee tat :)
By Mok Fei Fei, Channel NewsAsia
SINGAPORE: Employees in Singapore will see some of the lowest pay rises this year compared to their counterparts in other places.
A survey of 53 jurisdictions by London-based research company ECA International has placed Singapore in the bottom 10 of the salary rise rankings.
Singapore was in joint 43rd spot, along with France and Hong Kong.
Salaries in these three places are expected to increase by two per cent this year.
Japan was the lowest-ranked, with half of the companies in the economy planning to freeze salaries.
A quarter of the world's companies, and 40 per cent of those in the US, plan to freeze salaries this year.
But there are bright spots in other parts of the world.
Employees in Venezuela, Argentina and India can look forward to the most robust double-digit pay rises.
Globally, average salaries are likely to increase 4.7 per cent this year, down from a 6.2 per cent rise in 2008.
- AFP/yt
- wong chee tat :)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)