By Avelyn Ng
The Singapore Stevedores’ Union (SSU) held an appreciation lunch for about 100 members and their families on 11 November 2017 at Hotel Royal. At the event, SSU President Lim Ah Kiat announced the decision to dissolve the union and transfer all its members to the National Transport Workers’ Union (NTWU) with effect from December 2017.
This came after a postal ballot held from 25 August 2017 to 17 September 2017 that saw a strong mandate of over 90 per cent from the members. Members were invited to witness the vote counting (as pictured).
Event Guest-of-Honour and NTUC Secretary-General Chan Chun Sing said: "It’s not a farewell gathering, but a new milestone for all of you today. Although we won’t hear SSU’s name in the future, it has been etched in Singapore’s history. Your diligence and selfless contribution will continue to inspire all of us at NTUC and NTWU. Let us continue to walk the new journey together.”
Formed in 1937, SSU is one of the first unions affiliated to NTUC.
“NTWU is committed to continue taking care of the welfare of the new members and serve them well. They will get to enjoy more benefits such as discounts at NTWU canteens at bus interchanges islandwide, scholarships and bursaries, and hardship assistance. We have also come up with a condolence scheme just for them and their dependants,” said NTWU General Secretary Fang Chin Poh.
A Veteran Unionist's Story
SSU General Secretary Tan Chu Beng, who has been working full-time in the union since 1967, plans to retire.
Speaking in Mandarin, Mr Tan said: “In those days, it was hard to find work and stevedores took up odd jobs. Sometimes they worked on weekends, other times they went for weeks without income. Many were afraid to accept mediation by the union during salary disputes. They were afraid that if they offended the contractor, they may not get the job next time. It was challenging for us.
“Over 10 years ago, we also encouraged members to get certification to operate forklifts. But, stevedoring is a sunset job – companies need less manpower nowadays and the trade is not attractive to youngsters. It’s a pity that we have to dissolve, but it is necessary.”
