CRISIS CENTRE FOR THE AGED

Mr Low Thia Khiang asked the Minister for Community Development if he will consider setting up a crisis centre for the aged to help those who are abandoned by their children or who find it difficult to live with their children.

Mr Yeo Cheow Tong: Sir, there is no need to set up a special crisis centre for the aged to help those who are abandoned by their children or who find it difficult to live with their children.

Besides my Ministry, there are a number of Voluntary Welfare Organisations (VWOs) which provide advice, assistance and counselling for the family and the elderly. Individuals and families who face problems and social difficulties can contact my Ministry. We have an Information and Referral Service which provides direct assistance or referral to specialised agencies which can provide help. In addition, the VWOs manage four hotlines and 18 social service and counselling centres. They act as focal points for those in crisis or in need of immediate assistance. Two of the four hotlines are specifically designed for the elderly. These are the hotlines managed by the Singapore Action Group of Elders (SAGE) and the Bukit Ho Swee Social Service Centre.

The overwhelming majority of Singaporeans still value and do take care of their elderly parents and grandparents. There have not been many cases of ill-treatment, abandonment of or conflict with elderly members within the family. Over the last three years, my Ministry received about 45 reports per year of elderly persons having difficulties with their families.

The Government has always emphasised the important role of the family in caring for the elderly. We have held public education and awareness programmes over the years. These programmes, among other things, help to foster respect and care for the elderly. My Ministry, together with the National Council of Social Service, community and civic organisations, will continue its efforts to strengthen and sustain its public education and awareness programmes. 1.30 pm

Mr Speaker: Order. End of Question Time.

[Pursuant to Standing Order No. 21(3), Questions Nos. 19, 21-26, and 28 & 29 have been postponed to the next available sitting of Parliament. Written answers to Questions Nos. 20 and 27 on the Order Paper are reproduced in the section, 'Oral Answers to Questions Not Reached' (Cols. 337 - 338).]