Higher costs to protect platform workers ‘part and parcel’ of doing business, says Koh Poh Koon as law passes

Bias AGAINST WORKERS

Some lawmakers raised concerns that platform workers might face prejudice in job-matching if they choose to settle in for higher CPF contributions.

They inquired about whether platforms ‘ algorithms could be audited to make sure this did n’t happen.

Because techniques are powerful, whereas an inspection may be responsive and only useful, and because software operators have their own specialized knowledge, Dr. Koh said this was challenging.

” If we force system providers to disclose this information, this may drive them away and result in a loss of software contractor work,” he said.

Platform work organisations will be able to address potential discrimination, according to him, with the legal obligation to protect software staff ‘ interests.

These organizations can advise the Manpower Ministry whenever necessary and discuss any discriminatory practices with software operators.

Similar to the trade union place, this can be accomplished in a way that promotes win-win solutions and preserves the peaceful relationship between system providers and program workers in this rapidly evolving field.

He also noted that more software employees will be covered by higher Pension contributions because younger employees turning 30 and under in 2025 are required to do so.

So, it was “in the attention” of platform operators to handle all platform workers pretty, regardless of whether they had chosen to participate in or had been subject to mandatory coverage.

Additionally, Dr. Koh cited business competition once more and said that system workers and consumers can switch platforms quickly based on their preferences.

To keep workers, it was therefore in system operators ‘ interest to address all platform workers very, he said.

The Singapore National Employers Federation ( SNEF ) stated in a statement that platform operators and workers “must work hand in hand to balance business flexibility with enhanced protections” after the bill was signed into law.

Since August 2021, SNEF, which has worked with 12 system operators on the changes, has stated that it will continue to fight for the providers ‘ passions while fostering a friendly relationship with the government and the staff.

Additionally, NTUC reiterated that it will form innovative platform work associations with legal support to represent them in a statement that described the Bill as” a win” for software personnel.

The legislation, according to the organization, allows users of these organizations to resolve grievances through mediation with the Manpower Ministry and increase to the Industrial Arbitration Court as needed.

Registered system work organizations can speak directly with platform operators and represent members on issues involving fair treatment and green earnings, according to NTUC.

The organizations will collaborate on health and safety with software operators. According to NTUC, this may involve reviewing the effects of platform guidelines on workers ‘ health and safety and developing better safety practices for drivers and users who are constantly on the move.