Business as usual, says NTUC, as FICA compliance takes effect

"NTUC acknowledges being designated as a PSP without objection," said the labour movement body.

As of 26 July 2024 (Friday), Singapore's labour movement, the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) has officially been designated as a Politically Significant Person (PSP) under the nation's Foreign Interference (Countermeasures) Act (also known as FICA).

In a statement released on 26 July 2024, NTUC has acknowledged the development as informed by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). 

It added that business continues as usual amidst the compliance to the foreign interference law.

This development has been confirmed in an announcement by MHA as well, which stated that: "NTUC has not submitted any representations in response to the Notice of Intended Designation issued to NTUC on 11 July 2024.

"The Registrar remains of the view that NTUC should be designated as a PSP, and NTUC was issued a notice on 26 July 2024 informing them of the designation. Similar to other designated PSPs, NTUC has a right to appeal to the Minister for Home Affairs against the Registrar’s decision."

On this aspect, the trade union, which has been pioneering workers' rights since 1961, said: "NTUC acknowledges being designated as a PSP without objection, and we note that MHA is doing so as a pre-emptive measure to mitigate foreign interference.

"We support safeguarding Singapore's sovereignty and will adhere to the requirements under FICA."

As a designated PSP, NTUC is required to make annual disclosures to the Registrar on:

(a) political donations of S$10,000 or more that NTUC receives and accepts, and
(b) foreign affiliations.

"These transparency requirements will mitigate NTUC’s risk of being a target of foreign interference," MHA stated.

While adhering to the FICA requirements, NTUC assured the public and its partners that operations and services will continue unabated, as it looks to continue championing workers' interests for better wages, welfare and work prospects.

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