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Mediator Goes The Extra Mile To Recover Salary For Employee

Mediation helps employees and employers resolve employment disputes resolve and payment-related disputes amicably.

22 Mar 2024
Salary claim
Disclaimer: The case study is based on an actual case handled by TADM. The names and identifying details in this case have been changed to protect the privacy of individuals.

Learning Insights

  • Employers are obligated to make payment for employees’ salaries on time even in times of financial difficulties.
  • Employees who are facing salary disputes should approach TADM early for assistance.

Background

Madam Quek was happy to have found a job working as a stall assistant at a vegetarian food stall. It meant another source of income for herself and her family and being able to afford small comforts in life. However, just two months later, Madam Quek and her colleagues were asked to leave the premises by the owner of the coffee shop. They later found out that their employer had not been paying rent for several months.

One week after she lost her job, Madam Quek had still not been paid her salary, despite promises to from her employer that she would be paid. She decided to file a salary claim with TADM. 

How TADM helped

TADM initiated an online mediation with both Madam Quek and her employer. Initially, Madam Quek was hesitant about the process of online mediation. She told the mediator that she was not familiar with the use of a computer and did not have an email account. Hence, she was unable to provide her supporting documents over email.

TADM’s mediator was quick to reassure Madam Quek that she would try her best to help her. The mediator then arranged to meet Madam Quek to collect the documents from her. With these documents, the mediator was able to verify the amount that was due to Madam Quek.

During mediation, the mediator also found out that the employer was facing financial difficulties. Nevertheless, the mediator emphasised to the employer that payment of salaries was an important part of an employer’s obligations, and suggested that he make the salary payment to Madam Quek in instalments. 

While Madam Quek was initially reluctant to accept this arrangement, she eventually relented as she acknowledged that her employer was also going through a difficult time.

Outcome

The mediator facilitated the signing of a Settlement Agreement and closely monitored the payments. Within about one month with TADM’s help, Madam Quek received the full amount of the salary and overtime payment that was due to her.