We appreciate that some families may require time to save up to meet the minimum sum. We thank Mr Leo for his suggestion to help these families. Applicants who will benefit from the scheme but need help to join the scheme will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

For families from the lowerincome bracket, financial assistance schemes and community support services are in place to look after people with disabilities.

The CPF Life annuities scheme, which Mr Leo referred to, is built upon the principle of self-provision that underpins our Central Provident Fund (CPF) system - a member can spend only what he saves.

For those who do not work and do not have CPF funds, they will be assisted through other financial assistance schemes.

Cheng Lay Tin (Ms)
Director, Corporate Communications
National Council of Social Service

Jean Tan (Ms)
Director, Corporate Communications
Ministry of Manpower