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With the help of the Building Construction and Timber Industries Employees' Union’s contacts, the Migrant Workers’ Centre (MWC) has managed to contact the employers of the four deceased workers from the fire in Geylang which occurred on 6 December 2014.
We understand that the employers have facilitated the repatriation of the workers’ remains as required under our work pass rules and are in contact with the workers’ families, having offered financial assistance to help with funeral arrangements. We also recognise that they have gone above and beyond discharging their legal responsibilities and have keenly sought our advice on doing as much as they can to help the deceased’s next-of-kins during this difficult period. Because of their sincerity and willingness to do their part, the MWC has committed to working together with them to provide assistance and support in any way necessary to help the affected workers and their families.
Updates on the Injured Workers
Of the three surviving workers that were sent to hospital following the incident, two have been discharged. One has returned home to Malaysia and the other has been certified fit to return to work. MWC officers have spoken to him to reassure him of our support should he encounter any future employment related issues. Other than this, he tells us that he is well and suffers no effects from the incident. The remaining worker continues to be under close hospital supervision and treatment for his injures. We have spoken to his employer, who visits him regularly, and understand that he has promised to bear all costs for his worker’s treatment and recovery. The MWC has also offered its support and prays for the worker’s speedy recovery. We hope to gain access to him as soon as possible to personally give him the reassurance of support and assistance should the need arise.
The MWC takes a very serious view of safety and security of migrant worker housing. We trust our authorities to thoroughly investigate this case and take firm action against offenders if wrongdoing is found.
During this difficult and sad time, we hope that the privacy of all those affected is respected. We urge the public not to speculate and allow investigations to run its due course
Bernard Menon
Executive Director, Migrant Workers’ Centre
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