Behind the Curtain of Singapore's Labour Movement

In a fiery response to critics from the Workers' Party, Education Minister Chan Chun Sing defended the role of labour MPs, emphasizing their tireless advocacy for workers, not just in public but also behind closed doors. During a bustling morning walkabout at Redhill Market, Chan asserted that these MPs are instrumental in voicing a diverse array of concerns that resonate within and beyond Parliament.

The Real Work of Labour MPs

Chan, a former leader of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), highlighted the often-overlooked hard work that goes into representing workers' interests. "It's not merely about slogans in Parliament; it demands relentless effort, including ongoing dialogue with unions and employers," he noted, suggesting that critics may misunderstand the complexities of Singapore's tripartite system.

Workers' Party Targets NTUC

At a recent rally, Workers' Party head Pritam Singh launched an all-out attack on NTUC's connections with the ruling People's Action Party (PAP). He claimed that the NTUC serves as a safety net for losing PAP candidates, mocking the idea that more NTUC representatives would enhance workers’ representation. His comments aimed to spotlight a perceived conflict of interest within the labour movement.

Call to Action for Labour Representation

When asked about the value added by elected officials, Chan pointed out that workers want their voices heard in both Parliament and the Cabinet. "When labour representatives advocate for their communities, they are taken seriously," he asserted, standing alongside dedicated PAP candidates Melvin Yong and Eric Chua, who continue to develop grassroots programs aimed at enhancing community welfare.

Ground-Up Initiatives Highlighted

Yong shared his initiatives to rejuvenate local markets during the pandemic, including a voucher program to support lower-income families while boosting hawker business. Meanwhile, Chua discussed community shops in Queenstown designed to improve food security and efforts to preserve hawker culture, emphasizing the importance of community spirit.

The Heart of the Matter: Jobs, Wages, Prices

Chan urged voters to focus on pressing issues such as jobs, wages, and prices—critical concerns for all Singaporeans today. He challenged citizens to critically evaluate political proposals based on their feasibility and potential to bolster employment and investments. "In these inflationary times, we must ensure our negotiating power remains strong when engaging with the global market," he warned.

The Walkabout Team

Joining Chan were fellow candidates from Tanjong Pagar GRC, including Minister of State Alvin Tan and newcomer Foo Cexiang, reinforcing the PAP's commitment to addressing the needs of their constituents with hands-on engagement and practical solutions.