NS stint may hinder job prospects for S'poreans

ST Nov 20, 2006 (Published in Straits Times)

NS stint may hinder job prospects for S'poreans

WHEN I started business in the motor trade a couple of years ago, I was surprised that many companies are reluctant to employ Singaporeans for several reasons. One of the main ones is that most male Singaporeans have to serve two to three weeks' reservist training every year.As a Singaporean, I understandably want to support my own people and give our men an opportunity. So my company went against the grain by employing one permanent resident and one Singaporean where most other companies go with PRs.Both were equally hard working and resourceful. However, the Singaporean had in-camp training and when he failed his individual physical proficiency test (IPPT), he had to go for further training which meant that he had to leave work early. No such thing with PRs.Although the Government reimburse the employee during reservist training, a company employs someone because of his contribution to its profitability. Does the Government take loss of business into consideration?Small companies do not have the financial strength to bear the loss. Does this mean male Singaporeans can work only in large companies?

Reservist discrimination in JobsDB.com?
http://alvinology.wordpress.com/2008/03/26/reservist-discrimination-in-jobsdbcom/

Mr Wang Say-so
http://commentarysingapore.blogspot.com/2006/11/ns-and-employment.html

http://commentarysingapore.blogspot.com/2006/09/rethinking-ns-part-1.html

http://commentarysingapore.blogspot.com/2006/09/rethinking-ns-part-2.html