SINGAPORE: The government's feedback unit, REACH, has set
up a policy workgroup to examine the issue of integrating new
citizens into Singapore society.
It is one of three groups newly set up to keep up with the dynamics
of the country. The other two will study healthcare and
manpower.
REACH chairman Amy Khor announced this on Wednesday at an event
where five existing workgroups, which were set up two years ago,
presented their findings.
The group on population and integration did a survey amongst 360
new citizens and permanent residents, and found that a large
proportion – 78 per cent – felt welcomed in Singapore.
87 per cent of them did not have a problem adjusting to Singapore's
civic rules and regulations, while 85 per cent supported the
national service policy.
The workgroup on economic and employment opportunities recommended
that the government withdraw the fiscal stimulus it announced in
the last budget gradually in 2010.
It also suggested that the government maintain some of the key
budget schemes, particularly those related to training and credit
schemes for small and medium enterprises.
The group also felt that there should be gradual withdrawal of wage
subsidies like the Jobs Credit Scheme.
The workgroups' reports will be sent to the relevant ministries for
further study.
- CNA/so