WP MP Gerald Giam warns NTUC-PAP relationship could compromise Union independence and advocacy

SINGAPORE: In his speech during the debate on the Platform Workers Bill on Monday (9 Sept), Mr Gerald Giam, MP for Aljunied GRC from the Workers' Party (WP), argued that the close relationship between the National Trade Union Congress (NTUC) and the ruling People's Action Party (PAP) could lead to conflicts of interest. He suggested that this alignment might cause union leaders to prioritize political alignment over addressing workers' needs. Giam noted that this close connection could undermine the independence of unions, resulting in muted advocacy and a lack of dynamism in labor policymaking. He cited the International Labor Organization's (ILO) Convention No. 87, which emphasizes the importance of union independence. While Giam supported the bill, he raised concerns about several aspects. He argued that the bill imposes regulatory restrictions similar to those faced by unions, which could limit the independence of Platform Work Associations (PWAs). Additionally, he expressed concerns about the risk that NTUC-affiliated PWAs might dominate, potentially restricting workers' choices and limiting the formation of alternative PWAs. He also highlighted the potential for low voter turnout in the PWA recognition process, which might result in representation that does not fully reflect the majority's will. Furthermore, Giam pointed out that the provision allowing PWAs' executive committees to bind all members to collective agreements without ratification by the members could echo past amendments that diminished workers' direct input into agreements. Giam supported the introduction of employer CPF (Central Provident Fund) contributions for platform workers but cautioned that platform companies might offset these contributions by reducing overall payments to workers. He urged the government to closely monitor this to ensure that workers do not end up with lower take-home pay.