Incentives for a family

Not too sure whether the incentives that were announced recently should be taken in a positive way.

Come on, it is a well known fact that employers shun mothers-to-be like a plaque. Reports in the papers confirm it. We have heard about it from friends and we have also seen it with our very own eyes.

Increasing from 3 months to 4 is definitely advantageous for the Mum, but isn't that pushing to much on the paying employers who on the other hand, are always looking for various ways to improve productivity, cut cost, blah blah blah.... Don't make it compulsory, please!!!

Baby bonuses are good, the govt giving hard cash every 6 months. Matching dollar for dollar? Some would doubt it.

Not all establishments except CDA and that can be a bad thing. Even the participating banks are giving out ATM cards for these CDA accounts Come on!!! How to use it????

This CDA usage should not be limited to classes & childcare. If we put in money now, the CDA can only be used when the kid start his pre-school activities. Again not all establishments except CDA!!! Some even say, they can only start for K1/K2 classes......that is 5 years after the child is born!!

Someone should suggest that CDA could be used for buying milk powder, pampers, medicinal items, doctor visits, zoo trips, bird park. Now, that would be useful. I am sure fellow parents do agree with me on this.

Nevertheless, money matching for 1 to 1 is better than no money matching at all.....

But what happens if the money is not fully utilised? Does the govt take back the money that is not spent?