Front line public officers working to keep the Covid-19 crisis at bay will be given a special one-month bonus.

This payout was announced by Deputy Prime Minister and finance minister Heng Swee Keat, on Friday, Feb. 28 to recognise their valour in “a tangible way”.

Members of Parliament thumped their armrests in support of this announcement.

Rationale for bonus

“The selflessness and commitment of our healthcare workers have shone through as they bravely care for those affected and tirelessly work to contain the spread of the virus," Heng said during his Budget debate round-up speech in Parliament.

"They are an inspiration to all of us, and their spirit of excellence has been recognised around the world.”

Heng also said: “While we cannot thank them enough, we will show our appreciation and support in a tangible way. The government will award public officers on the front line who are directly battling the Covid-19 disease, up to one additional month of special bonus.”

Heng also said those involved in the Covid-19 fight include Health Ministry and hospitals healthcare officers, plus other officers in front line agencies.

Other public officers will be recognised in appropriate ways for contributing significantly.

Covid-19 grant for clinics

A one-off Covid-19 grant will also be given to the 900 Public Health Preparedness Clinics activated to deal with the health crisis, to support them in “their active role in caring for patients with respiratory symptoms”.

These include more than 600 general practitioner clinics.

Heng said: “This gesture, plus the many words of encouragement and acts of consideration and kindness, is our way to express to you, ‘We salute you’.”

Top photo via Tan Tock Seng Hospital Facebook