PERSONS AFFECTED BY ECONOMIC CRISIS

Mr R. Ravindran asked the Prime Minister whether the Government will issue a directive to Government Ministries, statutory boards and other related revenue collection/charging agencies to be sympathetic and understanding to families, individuals and companies who have been affected by the present economic crisis and are facing financial difficulties.

Dr Richard Hu Tsu Tau: The Government is sympathetic to the individuals and companies which face difficulties because of the economic situation. But it cannot help them by having Government agencies defer or forgive charges. Government agencies have to work on a proper basis. Building up arrears with JTC and PUB, etc, will not solve the problems of families and businesses facing financial difficulties.

Companies will be helped by the supplementary budget measures being announced in the ministerial statement later today. There is also available a range of assistance schemes administered by EDB, PSB and other agencies. There are many schemes to help families which have difficulties paying their rent, utilities bills or other fees and charges. For example:

Financial assistance: The CDCs and MCD offer financial assistance to individuals or families who need short-term help to tide them over difficult periods. People's Association's CCC provides financial assistance to needy residents from its Welfare Fund.

Payment of rent and utilities: The CDC has a Rent and Utilities Assistance scheme to help families residing in 1-room, 2-room or 3-room HDB rental flats who need help on rent, utilities and S&C charges.

Payment of mortgage loans: HDB allows lessees in financial hardship to reschedule the mortgage loan payment period. For deserving cases, where there is a sudden loss of income due to circumstances beyond control, they may even be allowed to defer payment of their loan instalments.

Payment of medical bills: Medifund can help Singaporeans in genuine financial difficulties pay their medical bills at public hospitals, on top of subsidies already given. Ministry of Health will also consider remission or waiver of outpatient charges at polyclinics.