New work group to address foreigners doing delivery jobs illegally, unauthorised hitch services
In a press statement, NTUC noted that some foreigners are taking on delivery jobs directly on platforms by misusing accounts. This is illegal, as platform work can only be undertaken by Singaporeans.
This creates 'unfair competition for our delivery workers, and it has a direct impact on their earnings,' said NTUC, noting that the matter came to light following feedback to the labour movement and platform worker associations.
NTUC further highlighted that while platform operators can outsource delivery jobs to other companies, some foreigners are serving these companies without work permits. This practice is also illegal.
NTUC and the platform worker associations will tackle the issue with platform operator Grab, the Ministry of Manpower and the Ministry of Transport.
The work group will also look into other challenges that platform workers face, such as illegal hitch services and a lack of income stability.
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NTUC noted that there are unauthorised ride-hailing services operating through messaging apps, such as Telegram, which affect workers' earnings.
'These illegal services undercut legitimate platform workers' job opportunities, creating unfair competition that affects workers' ability to earn sustainable earnings,' it said.
Separately, NTUC flagged that incentive schemes for platform workers inadvertently encourage longer working hours, creating safety issues. In addition, workers face uncertainty in the types of jobs allocated to them by apps, causing them to 'grapple with a lack of income security'.
NTUC secretary-general Ng Chee Meng noted that platform workers are vulnerable, and called for them to be 'treated fairly as they make an honest living'.
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5 hours ago
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New Paper
5 hours ago
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