I REFER to a press report that the Government had praised businesses for retaining workers and retrenching only as a last resort.

It is good to know that the Government recognises and promotes corporate social responsibility.

However, while it acknowledges the private sector's contribution to saving jobs, it should play a leading role as a major employer by hiring middle-aged professionals, managers, executives and technicians.

My friends aged 45 and older have told me that, even with the right qualifications, skills and experience, they have been rejected for public-sector jobs.

Some did not even receive an acknowledgement of their application.

If the Government made the first move in hiring older workers, it would set an example for the private sector and give the latter more reason to follow suit.

Mr Teo Kueh Liang

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