Eric Chua on Maintenance of Parents (Amendment) Bill

Singapore’s system of social security is based on self-reliance, strong families and strong communities, with the Government as the final safety net. Parents must exercise individual responsibility to take care of their financial needs but where that is not enough, the family is a key pillar of support. Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Social and Family Development Eric Chua said this in Parliament on Tuesday (Jul 4) as he voiced support for the Maintenance of Parents (Amendment) Bill tabled by MP Seah Kian Peng. Mr Chua said surveys have shown that Singaporeans continue to hold the family as the fundamental bedrock of society. His ministry has also been strengthening the Families for Life movement which aims to inculcate family values and promote family bonding. However, he noted that legislation is still important and relevant, and that the Maintenance of Parents Act is meant to be applied to a small minority of children who neglect their responsibilities when their parents cannot support themselves and they have the means to help. Mr Chua said MSF supports the thrust of the amendments in the Bill, which seeks to enhance the powers of the Tribunal for the Maintenance of Parents in ensuring that neglected elderly are adequately supported, while strengthening safeguards to prevent misuse of the MPA by those who did not fulfil their parental duties. He said the amendments build on previous work to make the legislation even more fit for purpose.