Parliament: MPs call for stronger support for workers, debate retrenchment and skills training

On August 5, over 20 Members of Parliament (MPs) addressed Parliament, advocating for stronger support for workers, discussing retrenchment and skills training. The motion, proposed by Workers' Party MPs Kenneth Tiong and Jamus Lim, focused on Singapore's economic vision and response to government plans. However, PAP MP Edward Chia dissented to the motion, leading to its passage by the House.

The debate centered on providing young workers with a foothold in an uncertain labor market, which could be adversely affected by artificial intelligence reducing entry-level roles. NTUC assistant secretary-general Patrick Tay emphasized that structured industry-relevant experience is crucial for young graduates to progress in their careers.

He highlighted NTUC's Graduate Industry Traineeships (GRIT) program, which partners with employers to offer such experiences, and noted that WSG assists participants in transitioning to full-time roles. Non-Constituency MP Andre Low called for the development of paid apprenticeships and more structured pathways for roles requiring long-term training.

Retrenchment protections were also a significant topic, with PAP MP Pritam Singh advocating for mandatory minimum retrenchment benefits. WP MP Fadli Fawzi suggested a universal redundancy insurance scheme to provide workers with monthly payouts upon retrenchment. NTUC's Patrick Tay stated that retrenchment protections should be strengthened, as the current law has fallen behind and other countries have implemented similar measures.

Several MPs also called for more support in skills training, including allowing SkillsFuture credits for AI-powered tools and expanding the CPF education loan scheme to help workers enhance their skills.