UNWED MOTHERS

UNWED MOTHERS

27.

Mr Steve Chia Kiah Hong asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance whether a more open and caring Singapore society includes single unwed mothers and their children and, if so, what fiscal policy measures are in store to help such mothers cope with the difficulties of single parenting.

Mr Lee Hsien Loong: The Government cannot, and should not, be a surrogate father or family to replace the missing fathers or families who should be supporting these single unwed mothers. Neither should we be encouraging women to make single parenthood a lifestyle choice. Government's view is that two-parent families provide the best environment for our children to grow up in and fulfill their potential. Society supports this view. I hope Mr Chia is not suggesting otherwise.

The Government provides direct help for these mothers to care for their children so that the children are not disadvantaged. They can qualify for maternity leave and childcare leave under the Employment Act, and are eligible for infantcare and childcare subsidies. They can also rent or buy a flat from HDB jointly with their parents. If they are aged 35 and above, they can buy a resale flat or pair up with another eligible single to rent a flat from HDB.

Their children get the same education benefits as any other Singaporean child. They pay the same school fees, enjoy Edusave grants and qualify for the same scholarships and bursaries. No Singaporean child will be denied an education because of the circumstances of his birth.

Most importantly, an open and caring society is not just about Government providing assistance. It is also about families and the community stepping forward to do their part. I am glad to hear that ABN-AMRO, together with Project Wings by our 10 women PAP MPs, has organised a financial skills programme to help single mothers. I hope there will

Column: 713

be more of such community initiatives and family support to help single parents manage the challenges of raising children.