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To: ceo@ceo.gov.hk, enquiry@labour.gov.hk, enquiry@labour.gov.hk
Subject: Protest Letter - Campaign against cabin crew retirement
To The Honourable Donald Tsang, Mr. Matthew Cheung, Dr. Patrick Ho
Ref: Protest Letter - Campaign against cabin crew retirement
Dear Sirs,
It has been brought to my attention that airlines based in Hong Kong are applying a rule under which some cabin crew are allowed to retire at an age of their choice up to 55, whilst others do not have that choice and are forced to retire at the age of 45.
The principles underpinning this rule are archaic and have no place in today's aviation industry. I strongly support the trade unions' fight to abolish such regulation. It violates fundamental rights of workers, and it excludes cabin crew from equal opportunities, decent working conditions and benefits, and the right to retire with dignity.
Furthermore, and this must be of utmost interest for both airline management and aviation regulators, it is very clear that the experience which cabin crew acquire through years of service onboard an airline's fleet invaluably contributes not only to service proficiency, but more importantly, it is vital for the safe operation of a flight. Cabin crew as safety professionals, this is the core description of their job.
I hereby call upon you to address this policy of compulsory retirement at the age of 45, as it is discriminatory. As the relevant anti-discrimination legislation in Hong Kong does not yet cover discrimination based on age, may I suggest it is amended it accordingly.
I believe that this matter is of serious concern for all stakeholders and look forward to hearing from you soon.
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