With more trains and buses coming on board for more reliable services, leading public transport operator SMRT said it plans to recruit and upgrade its staff, with initiatives developed in partnership with the National Transport Workers’ Union (NTWU).
Proposals At A Glance
SMRT aim to increase its headcount by 15 per cent or 700 rail staff this year, in anticipation of new trains on the North-South, East-West and Circle Lines. More staff are also needed for maintenance work.
It will also increase its staff strength by 20 per cent or about 500 new staff as more buses go on the road to reduce waiting time.
SMRT also announced that basic salaries for bus captains will be adjusted to, giving those with some years of service two to three days more annual leave for a better work-life balance.
To address an ageing population, SMRT will roll out programmes to improve staff well-being, improve their productivity and safety.
NTWU Support
NTWU Executive Secretary Melvin Yong said: “For NTWU, the terms need to keep pace with the changes in the industry. The employment package must be competitive to attract new entrants, in particular Singaporeans, to join the industry.
“Second, the remuneration must duly recognise and reward the workers for their contributions. Any changes should not cause any worker to be worse off, but instead benefit and motivate the workers.
“Third, the employment package must go beyond wages and include clear career progression pathways and skills upgrading opportunities to allow the workers to move up the career ladder.”
Source: NTUC This Week
