Studies on Effects of Introduction of Gender-neutral Fertility Leave on Employability of Individuals Using It

5 Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked the Minister for Manpower (a) whether an update can be provided on any studies that have been undertaken by the Ministry to study the effects of introducing gender-neutral fertility leave on the employability of the individuals who use it; (b) whether such studies have been or will be conducted and, if so, when will the results of the studies be available; and (c) if no studies have been conducted yet, why not.

Dr Tan See Leng: I thank the Member for his question. The Ministry had provided an answer to his question a year ago. Since then, we have not undertaken any study on gender-neutral fertility leave. We have also not received any proposals from the research community to study this issue. As explained in the reply last year, researchers could apply to the Social Science Research Council if there is interest.

We will conduct useful studies where we can, taking into account available resources. It is not realistic to undertake every study that is suggested. However, we welcome other stakeholders to conduct robust studies on issues of interest and share the findings to enrich the discussion.