Introduction of Protected Time Regulations during Working Hours in Support of Breastfeeding Mothers

36 Ms Elysa Chen asked the Minister for Manpower whether the Government will consider introducing regulations requiring employers to provide protected time for mothers to pump breastmilk during working hours as part of strengthening workplace support for women.

Dr Tan See Leng: The Government recognises the importance of supporting women in the workplace, including the needs of nursing mothers. Given the varied nature of work requirements and arrangements, we take an enabling approach to support employers rather than to impose regulations, and work with tripartite partners to promote an inclusive, supportive work culture for nursing mothers.

For example, the Tripartite Standard on Work-Life Harmony specifies workplace practices that employers should implement to support employees to manage their work responsibilities and personal aspirations, including providing lactation support in the form of a breastfeeding-friendly work environment and flexible lactation breaks. The Employers' Guide to Breastfeeding at the Workplace, which was jointly produced by the National Trade Union Congress U Family, Health Promotion Board and the Singapore National Employers Federation, also recommends employers to provide lactation breaks for employees. The Government has also legislated the provision of lactation facilities by building owners under the Building and Construction Authority's Code on Accessibility.