I DO not agree with the views expressed in the letter, "Are some jobs really shunned?" (my paper, Nov 11).

It is entirely untrue that employers prefer to hire foreigners, who are willing to accept lower wages, over locals.

The fact is that Singaporeans are picky and shun working shifts and weekends.

Manufacturing firms face production problems because of manpower shortages, which are due to high staff turnover.

Labour shortages may adversely affect service standards in restaurants, hotels and retail stores.

Employing foreigners is a solution, as they are prepared to work long, irregular hours and on public holidays.

It is a misconception that hiring foreign workers is cheaper than hiring Singaporeans when one has to factor in things like accommodation, transport, training costs and workers' levies, not to mention the extra paper work needed to employ them.

Also, foreigners need time to adapt to a new working environment and culture, which will initially create some problems.

Singaporean workers are better-skilled, more knowledgeable and more productive than foreigners.

Employers would not mind paying them higher wages if they were not so choosy about their jobs.

Mr Jeffrey Law Lee Beng

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