In her Parliamentary speech during the debate on the motion of thanks to the President’s address on 17 April 2023, NTUC U SME and U Women and Family Director Yeo Wan Ling called for more to be done for the invisible segment of society ― women with caregiving needs, platform workers and special needs adults.
On women, she noted that the pandemic caused women’s professional and domestic lives to be more blended than ever, yet their caregiving burden has not reduced due to cultural norms. Ms Yeo suggested that workers be given the flexibility to provide care to loved ones beyond the traditional familial set, such as aunts, uncles, nephews, and nieces.
On platform workers, she highlighted that they bear invisible risks such as safety on the roads, retirement adequacy, health safety nets and housing.
On special needs adults, Ms Yeo pointed out that parents are concerned about how these adults can continue to live well once the caregivers pass on, as many do not lead independent lives. She shared that these parents envision a care model akin to a village where the community helps these adults lead safe, dignified, and fulfilled lives. She felt that Singaporeans are capable of being this ‘village’.
She urged Singaporeans to work with the Labour Movement and tripartite partners to define a more dignified livelihood for them.
