MOM asks for public feedback on Employment Claims Tribunal

Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has invited public feedback on the proposed Employment Claims Tribunal (ECT).

Currently, the Labour Court provides adjudication services to resolve salary-related claims between employers and employees covered under the Employment Act (EA).

However, those not covered by the EA (including professionals, managers and executives - PMEs; and earning more than $4,500/month) would have to file their claims with the civil courts, which can a lengthy and costly process.

Thus, MOM announced plans in 2014 to set up an ECT, aimed at a more accessible system to resolve salary-related claims more quickly for all employees.

In consultation with the Ministry of Law, the Attorney-General’s Chambers, the State Courts and the tripartite partners (NTUC and SNEF), MOM has proposed that the ECT be established as a Tribunal under the State Courts, similar to the Small Claims Tribunal.

The ECT will take over the work of the current Labour Court in adjudicating salary-related claims.

Details of the proposal can be found in the public consultation document on the REACH website till March 23, 2016, and feedback related to the establishment of the ECT can be sent to mom_consultations@mom.gov.sg.