Contrary to the writer's assertion that the General Insurance Association of Singapore (GIA)'s move requiring employment agencies to be registered as trade-specific agents (TSAs) is 'fizzling out', more and more employment agents are signing up as TSAs each day. More than 70 employment agencies have registered as TSAs, with another 40 pending confirmation, giving us a total of 110.

The list of TSAs can be found on our website at www.gia.org.sg and will be updated daily. Prospective employers of foreign maids may wish to access this list.

The main purpose of introducing the TSA framework is to provide greater clarity and openness in the sale of maid insurance.

There is considerable confusion among consumers purchasing this cover after they have selected a maid. The GIA believes this move will significantly boost transparency and professionalism in the sale of maid insurance.

The critical components of maid insurance, namely, the premium, the type, scope, period of cover and refunds in case of cancellation, should all be spelt out clearly to prospective employers at the point of sale.

Employment agencies have a choice: they can either sign up and be trained as TSAs or they can refer the employer to either an insurance company or brokers.

The fact that an increasing number of employment agencies are registering as TSAs indicates that they see the value of this initiative and wish to continue to offer their customers the convenience of a one-stop service.

With effect from Nov 1 all GIA member companies writing maid insurance can accept business only from employment agencies that are registered as TSAs.

Mark Lim
Executive Director
General Insurance Association of Singapore