Singapore Government Press Release

Media Division, Ministry of Information & The Arts, #36-00, PSA Building, 460 Alexandra Road, Singapore 119963, Tel: 3757794/5

SPEECH BY MR GOH CHEE WEE, MINISTER OF STATE

FOR TRADE & INDUSTRY AND COMMUNICATIONS, AT THE FOOD AND

BEVERAGE INDUSTRIAL WORKERS' UNION 15TH ANNIVERSARY DINNER ON FRI, 18 OCT '96 AT MANDARIN SINGAPORE AT 8.45 PM

Singapore and Singaporeans have made tremendous progress since independence. 30 years ago, we could not have imagined that as a small city state without any natural resources, we could develop to the present level of prosperity. We could not have imagined that not only were we able to solve the problem of massive unemployment, we could create so many jobs which have made us so dependent on foreign labour.

What have made us successful over the last 30 years? One important factor is that we dare to introduce new and innovative ideas - ideas which have not been thought of or experimented on elsewhere in the world.

Years ago when many developing countries were still debating about whether to allow foreigners to invest and operate in their countries for fear of exploitation of their labour and resources, we openly declared our policy of welcoming foreign investors. Ten and twenty years later, many other countries decided to follow us. But we already had a head-start.

When all the trade unions in the western world took an confrontational stance against the employers and regarded this as the legitimate role of the trade unions, we advocated co-operative labour-management relations and responsible trade unionism. Today Singapore workers are enjoying fruits of success brought about by industrial harmony and social stability.

We have introduced many other innovative schemes like CPF scheme which facilitate our home-ownership programme, COE which control car population and reduce road congestion, and Medisave which help cover our medical expenses. At the political front, we have introduced GRC to ensure minority representation in Parliament.

If we have not been courageous in introducing all these untested programmes, we would not have successfully resolved many of our social and economic problems and raised the quality of life of our people.

Similarly for trade union, you have to be innovative and dare to be different. There is no question that trade unions in Singapore have gone beyond the traditional confines of the labour movement. You have taken on many social and economic roles, which your counterparts in other countries would not even think of. NTUC and its affiliated unions have set up a full range of co-operatives covering insurance, supermarkets, food, housing, healthcare, and child care which benefit not only the union members, but the population at large. The labour movement has also built social and recreational facilities like the Pasir Ris Resort, Orchid Country Clubs, Sentosa Beach Resort and Lifestyle Centres to meet the social, recreational and educational needs of its members. When confronted with the problems of declining memberships some years ago, NTUC introduced many innovative programmes, like setting up the NTUC Clubs, providing union benefits, introducing general branch membership etc.

We are living in a dynamic and rapidly changing world. New problems will surface as soon as old ones are resolved.

To remain relevant, trade unions have to continually adjust with the change of time. You will always have to ask yourselves : what is it that the members require, what problems will they face in the immediate future and in the long term, what measures can the union take to address the anticipated problems, and what are the things that the union can do to help its members ensure their employability, improve their life and realise their aspiration.

Generally speaking, trade unions in Singapore have done well in serving their members and playing a constructive role in nation building. But more could be expected from the trade unions in the years to come.

The FBIWU represents the interest of workers employed in the food, beverage and related industry. Like any other sectors of our economy, this industry will face the constant challenge of changing technology and rising competition. The Union will continue to face new challenges for which solution must be found and adequate strategies formulated.

I have confidence in the leadership of the Union and would encourage the workers employed in this industry to render their support to the Union. Collectively, you can do much more than what you can achieve individually.

On the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the FBIWU, I wish the Union and all its members greater success in the years ahead.

May I also wish you a very enjoyable evening.