Desmond Choo on Platform Workers Bill

The Platform Workers Bill is a positive step forward for Singapore, as providing platform workers with the protection they deserve is essential in building an inclusive society, said MP Desmond Choo. Speaking in Parliament on Monday (Sep 9), he said it also demonstrates that the PAP Government is prepared to make bold changes to its policies to improve the lives of Singaporeans. He stressed the need to continue to listen to the voices of platform workers and make necessary adjustments to ensure that the Bill achieves its intended outcome. The labour movement stands ready to assist the Government in engaging platform workers to ensure that the Bill achieves its intent, he added. Mr Choo said it is also important to acknowledge the challenges and tradeoffs. He pointed out that these protections will likely come at a cost, at least in the short term. Platform companies will need to adjust their business models to comply with the new obligations and some of these costs may be passed on to consumers, he said. He urged platform workers, companies and consumers to share the responsibility of ensuring that the gig economy remains fair and sustainable. Mr Choo noted that the Bill primarily focuses on workers engaged in transportation and delivery services. He pointed out that the gig economy extends beyond these sectors to those offering cleaning, digital and nursing services. He wanted to know the rationale for focusing on transportation and delivery services now and asked if there would be a periodic review mechanism to update the definition of platform workers.