The Self-Employed Person Income Relief Scheme (SIRS) was introduced to help self-employed persons (SEPs) with less means and less family support tide over this difficult period.

According to Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Manpower Low Yen Ling during the Committee of Supply (COS) debate for the Fortitude Budget on Friday (Jun. 5), more than 120,000 freelancers have benefited from the scheme so far.

Covid-19 Support Grant versus SIRS

Low was responding to a cut filed by Nominated Member of Parliament (NMP) Walter Theseira, one of only seven cuts filed for the Fortitude Budget.

Theseira's cut was directed to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), and questioned the difference in support offered to different categories of workers in need during this economic downturn, as well as how those categories are decided upon.

He pointed out that SIRS has a maximum cash assistance of S$9,000 and inclusion is automatic for qualifying Singaporeans.

On the other hand, the Covid-19 Support Grant maxes out at S$2,400, and individuals must apply for it.

This has resulted in some confusion amongst some workers about what group they are classified as, he said.

Thus, Theseira asked if government support provided to workers can be based on the worker's actual income risks and level, rather than classification status.

SIRS has benefited more than double the number of Workfare recipients

Low replied to Theseira's concerns, and said that the courts consider factors such as the degree of control exerted by the company, and the ability to decide hours of work, when assessing whether someone is an employee or a self-employed person (SEP).

MOM also follows up on complaints from employees if they are misclassified.

Low added that the JSS has cushioned the impact of Covid-19 on the labour market, and that SIRS was introduced to help self-employed persons (SEPs).

More than 120,000 freelancers have benefited from SIRS, said Low, which is more than double the usual number of Workfare recipients.

She stated that some SEPs who may not be eligible may still need the money, and have the ability to appeal. Together with NTUC, Low said, MOM will consider the appeals to ensure that the scheme helps those who need it the most.

And even if the appeal does not go through, MOM will connect the applicant with relevant agencies, such as Social Service Offices, to offer other forms of assistance, she stated:

"The government has always partnered various like minded organisations to better serve Singaporeans and our businesses. This is a key feature of tripartism, and has served our Singaporean workers very well."

She recognised that due to the wide variety of work arrangements today, each case is evaluated based on its specific circumstances.

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Top images screen captured from CNA video.