PUBLIC ASSISTANCE RECIPIENTS (Particulars)

Mr Teo Chong Tee asked the Minister for Social Affairs (a) whether the rates of public assistance can be increased to meet the present escalating cost of living, as many of the recipients consider the amount granted inadequate; (b) what was the number of recipients of public assistance as at 31st December, 1977: (c) how many of them were (i) below 40 years; (ii) between 40 and 60 years; and (iii) above 60 years of age; and (d) whether regular reviews are made to determine the continued eligibility of the recipients of such assistance.

Dr Ahmad Mattar: Mr Speaker, Sir, the rates of Public Assistance allowances were last revised upward by 40% in March 1976 in view of the substantial increase in the prices of essential consumer commodities since January 1973 when they were previously revised. Since March 1976, there has not been much change in the consumer price index and it is felt that any proposal for a further increase of the Public Assistance allowance rates would be difficult to justify at this time.

Recipients of Public Assistance allowances are eligible for a number of other benefits besides the financial assistance itself. They are eligible for free medical treatment at Government hospitals and clinics and even the fares for transport when they seek such medical treatment. They are also considered for financial assistance from various trust funds, benevolent societies, voluntary organisations and community groups as well as the assistance they get from friends and relatives. During festive seasons, community centres and Citizens' Consultative Committees (CCCs) also distribute food parcels, cash and other gifts to Public Assistance recipients who reside in the constituencies served by these community centres and the CCCs.

Public Assistance allowance is meant to provide temporary relief to those who are incapacitated and are unable to work or help themselves for one reason or other.

It is not pretended that the allowances provide for the total needs of recipients. Every effort is made to discourage continued dependence on welfare aid.

As at 31st December 1977, there were 6,397 households in receipt of Public Assistance. The age groups into which the heads of these households fall are as follows: Head of household below 40 years 428 Head of household between 40 and 60 years 977 Head of household above 60 years 4,992 Total 6,397

I would like to assure the hon. Member for Changi that the Public Assistance Section of the Social Welfare Department does conduct regular reviews of the cases to determine their continued eligibility for assistance.