Tapping on older workers

During debate on the Population White Paper in February, Labour Members of Parliament (MPs) brought up several issues, perspectives and suggestions.

Labour MP Heng Chee How pointed out that a way to grow the workforce, is to better tap the less tapped segments such as the older worker segment.

He urged the tripartite partners to start working on extending the re-employment age limit from 65 to 67.

He also suggested enhancing the ADVANTAGE scheme to further help employers to transform their recruitment and work processes to be age-friendly; and reform Eldershield and revamp HDB workplace health programmes to improve health and reduce concerns by employers and employees about rising healthcare and health insurance costs as workers age.

Additionally, Mr Heng urged the Government and the insurance industry to review the use of Eldershield beyond periodically adjusting premiums and payouts.