|
Dear Disappointed II,
|
|
A foreign woman working in Singapore as a live-in domestic helper is at the
mercy of the recruiter in her country of domicile, her agent in Singapore
and her employer. Employment of domestic workers (local or foreign) is not
regulated by the Employment Act. Market forces (unfortunately distorted)
determine the terms of employ. And for Elenita, her protection, limited
protection, is the contract of employment,
Elenita, like many others in her country, was so desperate to escape the poverty at home that she probably did not even ask about the terms and conditions of her employ. After all, she could see her neighbours benefitting from having a daughter working abroad. It is to Elenita's credit that she toughed it out for 8 months before giving up. Her employer had the power to cancel her work permit and send her packing. This is morally indefensible though legally unassailable. What prospective employer would not sympathise with Elenita, as you did! However, while some would regard you as her saviour, how Elenita views her new situation depends on the current conditions of her employ. If her agent took pride in her work, you could approach her to mediate. However, her one-dollar agency would probably attempt to persuade you to send her packing and get a one-dollar maid from her. And if that one did not turn out right, her agent would probably give you another replacement, "free" of her one-dollar unprofessional fee.
Or you could consult some agency known to counsel domestic workers or the
Association of Employment Agencies (Singapore), especially if the agency
that recruited your domestic helper is a member of the association. Off
hand, I would say that Elenita has shown herself a willing worker during her
8 months and perhaps does have grounds for wanting out. If you could meet
her half-way, all is not lost. |