The findings from REACH (the government feedback unit) and the People’s Association (PA) on 5 February 2020 revealed that worries over climate change and the looming goods and services tax (GST) hike were also among the key concerns for the public with regards to Budget 2020.
The findings were a result of more 10,000 responses collected for the annual exercise by the two agencies and the Finance Ministry, to get feedback ahead of the Budget.
Workers cited time and money as factors stopping them from taking up training. Elderly respondents were also worried about the difficulty of courses or doubted if the courses would make them more employable. While other concerns were of the employers not sponsoring or offering time-off to attend courses.
Respondents suggested more or regular SkillsFuture credit top-ups, subsidies for training costs, mandatory training leave and clearer training frameworks. They also called for more financial support for seniors who find it difficult to cope with the cost of living, such as enhancements to the Central Provident Fund and Medisave schemes.
A further suggestion was to have community-based initiatives to engage seniors, while those aged 60 and above called for support groups to help them stay positive and motivated.
Singaporeans also called on the Government to give more help for raising children, caring for ageing parents and with daily expenses. Suggestions included pre-school support, help for retired parents, and more grants and shorter waiting times for Build-To-Order flats to encourage more young couples to start a family.
Many Singaporeans also wanted to see more activities that encourage families to provide mutual care and support in the community, beyond government support. Apart from support for workers, seniors and families, REACH and PA stated that many were also worried about the imminent GST rise and wanted the Government to find other ways to raise revenue. The respondents asked for a comprehensive GST support package, especially for lower- and middle-income families.
On sustainability, many respondents recommended the reduction of single-use plastics.
REACH chairman Sam Tan said the Government should consider the feedback that has been raised. Mr Tan, who is also the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Social and Family Development stated that many Singaporeans recommended changes not just for personal needs but also in consideration of others in the community.
The feedback was gathered online and through face-to-face engagements held over 6 weeks from 2 December 2019 to 10 January 2020, on topics such as training and employment, security and external relations, and support for families and seniors. The public also be able to give their views after the Budget is delivered, with details on feedback channels to be released.
Source: The Straits Times, 5 February 2020