Written Reply by Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen to Parliamentary Question on Incentives for Employers Supporting National Service

Mr Nicholas Fang: To ask the Minister for Defence whether the Government will consider implementing (i) legislation to prevent employers from penalizing employees who are NSmen for their commitments to National Service and (ii) incentives to encourage employers to support their employees who have to serve as NSmen each year.
Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen: Under the Enlistment Act, employers are required to grant leave to their employees and cannot dismiss them for being called up for their NS duties. MINDEF takes a serious view of employers discriminating against NSmen at work and will investigate such complaints. Employers who are found guilty of infringing the Enlistment Act can face penalties of fines and imprisonment. While legislation exists, MINDEF proactively encourages employers to go beyond the requirements of law to actively support NS. MINDEF and the SAF engages employers regularly so that they can better understand NS training during In-Camp Trainings (ICTs) and the contributions of their NS employees. Each year we recognise outstanding employers through the Total Defence Awards. This year, a total of 522 employers received the awards. These employers have put in place many good practices. For instance, some employers plan their projects early or provide more workplace flexibility so that their NSmen can take time off for their Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT). Many employers also facilitate covering arrangements so that their NSmen can attend ICTs without difficulties.

MINDEF will do more to encourage companies to adopt practices that enable their employees to give of their fullest in performing their NS duties.