No 'cliff effect'

Non-Constituency MP Yee Jenn Jong worried about the "cliff effect" - where those below the poverty line receive all forms of assistance, while other genuinely needy citizens outside the poverty line are excluded - for short-term and medium-term ComCare assistance.

Currently, it is capped at a household income of $1,700.

Minister Chan Chun Sing replied that there would be no cliff effect as there is a "gradation of assistance given to families".

"It is not the case that everyone under ComCare gets the same amount," he said.

"Those who have other needs that cannot be met by ComCare assistance will be referred to other agencies to ensure they receive assistance appropriate to their needs," said Mr Chan.

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