Household Income Requirement for Work Support Programme and ComCare Transitions Scheme

Mr Muhamad Faisal Bin Abdul Manap asked the Acting Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports (a) whether the Ministry intends to raise the household income ceiling for the Work Support Programme and ComCare Transitions Scheme to keep up with the rising cost of living and to match the increased income ceiling of local ComCare programmes run by the Community Development Councils; and (b) whether the Ministry will consider modifying the household income ceiling requirement to reflect household size.

The Acting Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports (Mr Chan Chun Sing): Mr Speaker, Sir, I thank the hon Member Mr Muhamad Faisal Manap and many other Members of this House for sharing our concern for the needy. Various other Members have also given regular feedback to MCYS on the adequacy of our assistance schemes. MCYS regularly reviews ComCare schemes to ensure that they remain relevant amid economic and social trends, and provide adequate support to persons and families needing help. We are in the midst of a review of the Work Support Programme and ComCare Transitions scheme under ComCare. Changes will be announced when they are finalised.

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Mr Muhamad Faisal Bin Abdul Manap (Aljunied): Sir, I would like to thank the Minister for his response. A supplementary question: what are the factors taken into consideration in determining the suitable household income ceiling for both of these programmes?

Mr Chan Chun Sing: Sir, I thank the hon Member for the supplementary question. The factors that we consider include the cost of living, the median income and the kind of assistance that the respective household will need. While we make policies on the generic rules, we will also provide flexibility to help those that are really in need, and who may not fall under the specific criteria.