gals
here's the reply from MOM on the pregnant lady who was terminated by her company.
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I REFER to the letter by Ms Tan Joo Hymn, 'Pregnant mums who lose jobs a real problem' (ST, July 10).
Female employees at any stage of pregnancy can appeal to the Minister for Manpower under Section 14 of the Employment Act for reinstatement or compensation if they are dismissed unfairly. The minister may order the employer to reinstate or compensate the employee.
It is also an offence under the Employment Act to dismiss or terminate the services of an employee during her maternity leave. Two employers were fined last year for terminating their employees' services while they were on maternity leave.
The number of maternity-related complaints is proportionately small but more can be done to encourage all employers to implement fair employment practices. In May this year, the Tripartite Alliance for Fair Employment Practices was set up to get employers to adopt progressive employment practices that are fair and equitable to all workers, including pregnant employees.
Pregnant employees who feel they are being discriminated against at the workplace should approach the ministry for assistance.
Jean Tan (Ms)
Director, Corporate
Communications for Permanent Secretary
Ministry of Manpower