GovTech layoffs not part of wider public service restructuring: PSD

The layoffs at the Government Technology Agency of Singapore (GovTech) are not part of a wider restructuring across the public service, according to the Public Service Division (PSD).

A PSD spokesperson was quoted by CNA as saying, "GovTech's restructuring reflects its own operating needs as it adjusts to the broader changes in the technology sector."

On Jul. 15, GovTech retrenched 93 staff as part of its first phase in a shift towards a new operating model to deliver “faster, more secure, and more responsive digital services” for all Singaporeans.

The spokesperson further clarified that "significant restructuring" is undertaken only when needed and in response to "fundamental changes" in an agency's operating environment or model.

PSD: Priority is to reskill and redeploy workers during restructuring

The PSD spokesperson added that in all restructuring exercises, the top priority is to reskill and redeploy workers either elsewhere in the agency public service or within their own agency.

In the event that redeployment is not feasible, the affected officers may be offered the Special Resignation Scheme, which provides financial support and also employment assistance, as part of the support for their transition.

Background

Within GovTech, the affected roles are mainly in traditional project and vendor management, which are expected to become less necessary as more products are developed and operated in-house, GovTech chairman Chng Kai Fong explained in a note to staff.

"GovTech is changing shape, not shrinking," Chng explained that it was not a downsizing exercise. He also clarified that the decision on affected roles was not a judgement on an individual’s commitment, performance or value of their work.

Affected officers in project and vendor management roles will be offered full-salary apprenticeships and structured retraining programmes that combine technical and on-the-job training to enable them to transition into product ownership and related capabilities, GovTech said.

Those transitioning out of GovTech will be given a support package tailored in partnership with the Amalgamated Union of Statutory Board Employees (AUSBE).

Chng shared that this includes one month’s salary for every year of service, capped at 25 years, as well as a three-month ex gratia payment to provide additional support.

Affected staff will also continue to receive salary and benefits throughout the six-week handover and notice period.