Singaporean elderly have it hard
It is tough to be an old person in Singapore.
Foreign workers, rising prices and the cost of living, increasing the age of retirement and a lack of solid support system for the elderly are among the issues in the lead-up to Singapore’s general election tomorrow (Saturday 7 May 2011).
The Star Online website yesterday (Thursday, 5 May 2011) suggested while retired professionals in Singapore are facing problems securing employment, older people in Singapore, who are less educated, seem to be able to find ‘blue collar’ jobs.
According to the website, “it is not uncommon to see Singaporeans in their 60s, 70s and 80s sweeping streets, working in fast food restaurants and as cleaners.”
Although Singapore is a young country, its low birth rates mean that by 2030, one in five residents would be over 65.
At a recent rally, corporate lawyer Chen Show Mao, who spent 30 years abroad and is the Workers Party candidate for the Aljunied group constituency, said the government should be more sensible about bringing in foreign talent.
Mr Mao said the huge numbers of foreign workers depressed the wages of Singaporeans and even displaced locals from their jobs.
At the rally, Mr Mao criticised the Singaporean Government for constantly upping the retirement age and making it difficult for Singaporeans to benefit from its economic success and “live a dignified life.”
