Social welfare — Topics

9 May 2016

Update on Community Health Assist Scheme's Inclusion of GP clinics and Dental Clinics

Assoc Prof Fatimah Lateef requested an update on the review to include all GP and dental clinics in the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS).
Minister Gan Kim Yong noted that 900 GP and 650 dental clinics participate in CHAS, with over 96% of cardholders having a clinic within 15 minutes by public transport.
The government will continue engaging more clinics to join CHAS, aiming to expand coverage and affordable primary care access for residents.

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9 May 2016

Coverage of Approved Items for Claim under Seniors' Mobility And Enabling Fund

Patrick Tay Teck Guan asked whether the Seniors' Mobility and Enabling Fund (SMF) can cover battery replacement and maintenance or repair of mobility devices it provides.
Gan Kim Yong explained that SMF prioritises subsidies for purchasing essential mobility equipment rather than maintenance, repairs, or battery replacement, though case-by-case support is given for critical needs.
The Minister noted that over 29,000 seniors have benefited from SMF since 2011, with about 15,800 receiving subsidies for mobility devices.
The government will continue reviewing SMF's scope as seniors' needs evolve, within available fiscal resources.

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9 May 2016

Child Development Co-Savings (Amendment) Bill

The Bill introduces an extra week of paid paternity leave, which employers can claim reimbursement for, and will be mandated from January 2017.
It extends Child Development Account benefits, including a $3,000 First Step grant, to children of unwed parents to support their development.
Unwed mothers will qualify for full 16 weeks of maternity leave from early next year, with enhanced support for vulnerable families.
The amendments aim to promote shared parental responsibility, encourage father involvement, and address structural barriers to higher birth rates.
Parliament supports the Bill as part of broader efforts to strengthen family support and inclusivity in Singapore.

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9 May 2016

Applications for Early CPF Withdrawal

Assoc Prof Daniel Goh questioned the definition of "severely impaired life expectancy" for early CPF withdrawal and suggested aligning it with the Life Insurance Association's Critical Illness Framework for transparency, but the Minister declined, stating that using such a framework is not appropriate due to potential mismatches and that medical certification by CPF-approved doctors is required instead.
The Minister clarified that members with terminal illness can withdraw all retirement savings, while those with other conditions must set aside a reduced Retirement Sum of $40,300 and can withdraw a lump sum, with about 1,000 applications approved annually in the past two years.
Goh raised concerns about the accessibility of the application process for non-English-speaking elderly and the $5,000 cap, but the Minister responded that there is no list of ailments, accessibility is not an issue based on feedback, and the $5,000 cap is maintained to avoid depriving more members of the scheme.
In follow-up clarification, Goh noted that successful applicants can withdraw up to $5,000 or their remaining savings after setting aside the Retirement Sum, whichever is higher, but the Minister emphasized balancing lump-sum withdrawals with monthly support, noting that the reduced Retirement Sum allows for about $550 monthly, which lasts about seven years.

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9 May 2016

Increasing Parking Duration for Class 2 Label Scheme Vehicles in Lots for Handicapped

Joan Pereira requested an extension of the parking duration for Class 2 label holders from 60 minutes to two hours to better assist caregivers of persons with disabilities.
The Ministry explained that the current 60-minute limit balances the needs of all label holders, as extending it could reduce the availability of accessible parking lots given the rising number of Class 2 labels.
Pereira proposed creating a Class 2A license for caregivers with specific needs, such as the elderly, to allow longer parking durations on a case-by-case basis.
The Ministry reiterated that the 60-minute duration is reasonable for caregivers to safely assist passengers and that extending it could hinder access for other label holders.
Both sides acknowledged the growing demand for accessible parking, with the Ministry maintaining that the current policy best serves the shared needs of all users.

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9 May 2016

Raising Annual Income Criteria for Legal Aid

Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked about reviewing the annual disposable income criteria for legal aid, reasons for failing to qualify, and the case categories of those who qualify, with the Senior Minister of State responding that the means test is regularly reviewed and that 25% of Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents now qualify, up from 17%, with family cases involving children given special discretion.
The Senior Minister of State explained that applicants must meet a disposable income cap of $10,000 per year and a capital cap of $10,000, and among those who qualify, about half of the cases are matrimonial matters like divorce and child custody, while 15–20% involve property or estate issues.
On appeal options for those rejected for failing the means test, the Senior Minister of State noted that the Legal Aid Board cannot waive the means test criteria, but referred applicants to the Law Society's Pro Bono Services Office and the Community Justice Centre for potential alternative assistance on a case-by-case basis.

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9 May 2016

Integrated Shield Plan Coverage for Inpatient Hospice Services

Dr Tan Wu Meng asked whether all private insurers cover inpatient hospice services under Integrated Shield Plans and if the Ministry would mandate such coverage, similar to restructured hospital admissions.
The Ministry of State for Health noted that some riders already cover hospice care but mandating coverage would raise premiums, while current affordability is supported by subsidies, charity, and MediSave, with most patients not needing out-of-pocket payments.
The Minister emphasized ongoing reviews of subsidies and MediSave usage to ensure affordability and sustainability, and efforts to expand palliative care capacity across settings.
Dr Tan highlighted concerns for the "sandwich class" who may not qualify for full subsidies but rely on their IP benefits, pointing out a gap between coverage in restructured hospitals versus inpatient hospices.
The Minister reiterated that hospice care support includes subsidies and charity, and while some riders cover hospice care, the focus remains on MediShield Life’s core purpose of covering large hospital bills, with ongoing reviews to address needs.

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12 Apr 2016

Committee of Supply – Head I (Ministry of Social and Family Development)

Multiple MPs urged stronger support for fathers and shared parenting, including extending paternity leave flexibility and promoting fathering education, while the Minister announced that unwed mothers will now receive full Government-Paid Maternity Leave and their children will be eligible for Child Development Accounts to reduce early disadvantages.
Concerns were raised about childcare affordability, fee transparency, and manpower shortages, with the Ministry responding that it is on track to meet childcare place targets, has introduced measures to attract early childhood educators, and will pilot the KidSTART programme to provide integrated early support for vulnerable children.
The debate highlighted unequal benefits for children of single or unwed parents, with MPs calling for equal access to schemes like Baby Bonus and housing support, while the Ministry confirmed it is expanding assistance through KidSTART and other targeted programmes.
MPs emphasised the need to support informal caregivers, review income criteria across schemes, and enhance the Enabling Masterplan for persons with disabilities, with the Ministry outlining ongoing investments in VWOs, social service professionals, and community-driven care initiatives.
The Minister concluded that Singapore’s social policies are guided by equal opportunities, strong families, and a united country, committing to proactive, community-based support while urging all Singaporeans to play a part in building a caring and inclusive society.

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11 Apr 2016

Committee of Supply – Head M (Ministry of Finance)

Members called for procurement reforms to better support SMEs, suggesting outcome-based tenders and a revitalized "buy innovation" framework, while the government highlighted existing initiatives like the Accreditation@IDA and the revamped GeBIZ portal to facilitate SME participation.
Concerns were raised about the inclusivity and fairness of digitalisation, with the government detailing plans for upgraded Citizen Connect Centres and the National Trade Platform to ensure all citizens, especially seniors and SMEs, benefit from digital services.
The adequacy of means-testing for social schemes was debated, with suggestions to incorporate more granular factors like property ownership and long-term income, and the government acknowledged the need for ongoing review while defending the current proxy measures.
A proposal for refundable tax credits to support specialised caregivers was discussed, with the government emphasising its focus on subsidising services directly rather than providing cash allowances, while also highlighting existing support measures.
The government confirmed that interim constitutional provisions allow for continued operations during the debate period and that it remains committed to reviewing compliance burdens for businesses and enhancing retirement adequacy for vulnerable groups.

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6 Apr 2016

Debate on Annual Budget Statement

The debate centered on Budget 2016, emphasizing economic transformation through enterprise, innovation, and targeted support for SMEs, while also highlighting social elements like caring for seniors and vulnerable groups.
Members raised concerns about job security, especially for mature PMEs, urging enhanced programs like Career Support and Adapt and Grow, with the Minister committing to studies on redundancy insurance and improved job-matching.
Discussions addressed healthcare and senior support, including Silver Scheme criteria, middle-income retiree challenges, and calls for better primary care and technology use, with the Minister defending targeted approaches and fiscal sustainability.

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6 Apr 2016

Mortgage Assistance Plan for Retrenched Flat Owners

HDB provides financial counselling and explores options like subletting spare bedrooms for retrenched flat owners, with referrals to job placement and financial aid agencies.
Flat owners facing short-term mortgage difficulties may receive temporary reductions or deferments, while long-term solutions include right-sizing to a more affordable flat or including working adult children as joint owners.
For those unable to afford another flat with no family support, HDB may offer public rental flats, though it cannot directly assist with bank loans but helps restructure HDB mortgages and directs owners to social support agencies.

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5 Apr 2016

Debate on Annual Budget Statement

Members supported the Budget's focus on economic transformation and caring society, praising initiatives like SkillsFuture, Industry Transformation Programme, and Silver Support Scheme, while urging more targeted help for vulnerable SMEs, PMETs, and low-wage workers.
Debates highlighted concerns over job security amid automation and economic slowdown, with calls for enhanced flexible work arrangements, redundancy insurance, and better support for middle-income and sandwich-class families.
Suggestions included refining the triple "A" approach (Ability, Attitude, Altitude) for SMEs, expanding community partnerships, and ensuring policies like Silver Support are reviewed to avoid excluding deserving seniors based on housing type.

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4 Apr 2016

Review of Additional Housing Grant

Er Dr Lee Bee Wah asked if the Ministry of National Development would review the Additional Housing Grant, which was last enhanced in 2009.
Lawrence Wong explained that the Additional Central Provident Fund Housing Grant was introduced in 2006 and enhanced twice, in 2007 and 2009, to help low-income families own their first home.
He noted that eligible first-timers can receive up to $40,000 from the Additional Housing Grant and up to $80,000 in total for new flats, or up to $90,000 for resale flats with other grants.
The minister stated there are no immediate plans to further enhance the Additional Housing Grant but highlighted recent enhancements to other housing grants.
The government remains committed to ensuring public housing affordability and is prepared to take further measures if needed.

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4 Apr 2016

Use of Caregivers Training Grant

Assoc Prof Daniel Goh Pei Siong asked about the number of specialised caregivers who used the Caregivers Training Grant, the average grant amount they receive, and whether the Ministry would consider increasing the grant for them.
Minister Gan Kim Yong reported that about 40% of grant users in FY2015 were caregivers for conditions like dementia, autism, or intellectual disabilities, with an average annual grant utilisation of $116.
The Minister stated there are no current plans to increase the grant quantum, noting the $200 annual limit is generally adequate as most courses cost $200 or less and average utilisation has been around $160 over the past five years.
The Ministry will continue monitoring the grant's adequacy.

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4 Apr 2016

Statistics on ElderShield Premium Payers and Payouts

As of end-2015, there were 1.2 million ElderShield policyholders, representing about 65% of residents aged 40 to 83.
Since ElderShield's launch in 2002 until end-2015, approximately 12,500 successful claims have been processed, with around $90 million paid out.
ElderShield is automatically provided to eligible individuals at age 40 unless they opt out, with premiums typically paid via MediSave, and MOH is reviewing ways to improve processes, including collaborating with other organizations.

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4 Apr 2016

Subsidies for Diabetes and Cervical Cancer Tests at Polyclinics and GP Clinics

Louis Ng asked the Ministry of Health to consider higher subsidies for diabetes and cervical cancer tests at polyclinics and GP clinics to boost early detection.
Health Minister Gan Kim Yong highlighted existing low-cost screenings under the Screen for Life programme, with diabetes screening at $10 and cervical cancer screening at $10.25, and free tests for CHAS and Pioneer Generation cardholders since 2014.
The Ministry stated it will continue reviewing subsidies to ensure screenings and follow-up consultations remain affordable for Singaporeans.

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4 Apr 2016

Pioneer Generation and Other Subsidies for Elderly Patients not Physically Present to Collect Medications

Assoc Prof Fatimah Lateef asked the Minister for Health about exceptions for Pioneer Generation patients unable to physically collect medications due to mobility issues, so they can still use PG subsidies and the Medication Assistance Fund.
Minister Gan Kim Yong confirmed that caregivers can collect medications and supplies on behalf of PG patients with mobility restrictions, with the same subsidies applying whether collected in person or via a caregiver.
The Ministry will remind healthcare institutions and staff to implement this arrangement effectively to benefit PG patients.

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4 Apr 2016

Use of Medisave for Terminal Illnesses and End-stage Diseases

Assoc Prof Fatimah Lateef asked if MediSave usage for terminal and end-stage patients could be liberalised further.
The Ministry of Health highlighted existing subsidies and recent increases in MediSave withdrawal limits for hospice and home palliative care, noting that most patients face minimal out-of-pocket costs.
The Ministry assured that cases exceeding limits can seek help through MediFund or the Medication Assistance Fund, with appeals considered case-by-case to ensure affordability.

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24 Mar 2016

Appeals for Public Rental Flats and Interim Rental Housing

From 2013 to 2015, HDB received about 8,700 requests annually for public rental flats, with 6,900 households successfully granted such flats and 510 assisted with Interim Rental Housing.
Appeals are assessed on a case-by-case basis, with flexibility exercised for needy households that do not meet eligibility criteria but have no other housing options or family support.
HDB may refer complex cases to Family Service Centres for social worker assessment, with consent, to provide counselling, financial assistance, and employment support.

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24 Mar 2016

Property Pledges by CPF Members to Allow for Fund Withdrawal Beyond Basic Retirement Sum

Foo Mee Har asked for the number of CPF members who used property pledges to withdraw savings above the Basic Retirement Sum in 2016 and the amount used to top up their spouses' CPF accounts.
Lim Swee Say explained that CPF members aged 55 and above can withdraw savings above the Basic Retirement Sum by using a property charge or pledge, which does not affect ownership and ensures future restoration of the Retirement Account.
In January and February 2016, 1,200 CPF members withdrew savings above the Basic Retirement Sum via property charge or pledge, with 700 turning 55 during that period; the government does not track subsequent top-ups to spouses' accounts.
CPF members can directly transfer savings above the Basic Retirement Sum to a spouse's Special or Retirement Account without needing a property charge or pledge.

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