Medical Insurance Coverage when Foreign Domestic Worker is Put on Special Pass

Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked the Minister for Manpower (a) whether the mandatory medical insurance purchased by an employer for a domestic worker continues when the worker is put on a special pass by the Ministry or the police; and (b) if not, who is responsible for the worker's medical bills such as cost of consultation, prescription and procedures in those situations.

The Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Manpower (Ms Low Yen Ling) (for the Minister for Manpower): Mr Speaker, Sir, Special Passes are issued to FDWs to legalise their stay in Singapore after their work permits have been cancelled.

When an employment contract ends, the employer is required to cancel the FDW's work permit before she departs Singapore. A Special Pass is granted to cover the period between the cancellation of the work permit, and the FDW's departure from Singapore for her home country. During this period, the employer is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the FDW, including medical treatment. So, I want ot assure Mr Ng that the mandatory medical insurance purchased by the employer continues to be in force.

In exceptional cases, an FDW may be required by MOM or the Police to further remain in Singapore to assist in investigations. For such cases, a Special Pass will also be issued to the FDW. MOM and the Police will assist the FDW who needs help with medical treatments, including paying for medical bills as required.

Mr Speaker: Order. End of Question Time. The Clerk will now proceed to read the Orders of the day.