S$8b for Pioneer Generation Fund

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http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/bill-passed-to-pave-way/1451302.html

A Bill which provides for the establishment and administration of the S$8 billion Pioneer Generation Fund was passed in Parliament on Monday (Nov 3).

Members of the House also gave suggestions on how to improve the scheme.

TRAINING FRONTLINE STAFF

Some Members of Parliament spoke about how to enhance the Pioneer Generation Package, and how its benefits could be better communicated to pioneers. MP for Marine Parade GRC Fatimah Lateef suggested better training and briefing of frontline healthcare staff such as clinic assistants.

CLINICS, HOSPITALS SHOULD PUBLISH INFORMATION ON PIONEER BENEFITS

Dr Fatimah also suggested that more information on the participating healthcare institutions be published as pioneers may not be aware that their pioneer benefits can only be used in selected clinics and hospitals.

Responding to Dr Fatimah, Co-chair of the Pioneer Generation Taskforce Senior Minister of State for Finance and Transport Josephine Teo said the list would be made available online.

TABLING AN AMENDMENT TO CLARIFY A LINE

When it was Nominated MP Chia Yong Yong's turn to speak, she tabled an amendment to replace Clause 3 in the Bill.

Ms Chia said the line which read: ”by providing to them who are now elderly (bold) and are or may be in need of (end bold) financial relief, assistance or other support", suggested that the Pioneer Generation Package is subjected to means testing.

She asked for it to be replaced with the word ‘pioneers’.

MPs were asked if they would agree to the amendment., but it was rejected. Mrs Teo said the Government would still consider an amendment to the Bill.