There has been some pretty unfair treatment recently in the way HKA have laid off some of our pilots and the point being raised is Permanent Residents verses Work Permits.
The Hong Kong Government strongly advocates that employers must give first preference to the local work force for filling job vacancies.
The aviation sector in Hong Kong has largely been left alone in this area because there has been a shortage of locally qualified pilots since the inception of aviation in Hong Kong. Other industries have long been extremely protective and advocate locals first for many different positions.
The work force is shrinking and everyone is trying to hang on to what ever they can get, but if you are a
PR Holder or HK Passport Holder now is the time to rejoice.
I have had numerous calls and e-mails with the labour department and immigration department this week and their stance is definitive when it comes to protecting the local work force and our rights.
Many of us have moved our families here, put children into new schools and made huge lifestyle adjustments, it is your right to be protected after you have done your 7 years, paid your taxes and decided to call Hong Kong home.
The labour department take the stance that a
PR holder cannot not be made redundant when the company is still exercising work permits for other employees of the same qualification.
Get on the phone to the labour tribunal / immigration department if your company starts furloughing
PR pilots while still employing others under the work permit scheme.
Hope this helps Good Luck