Written Reply by Minister for Transport Ong Ye Kung to Parliamentary Question on Improve Affordability of On-Demand Point-To-Point Transport Services for Personal Mobility Aids and Devices

Ms Raeesah Khan asked the Minister for Transport whether the Ministry has any plans to improve the affordability of on-demand, point-to-point transport services for users of wheelchairs, personal mobility devices, and motorised wheelchairs to make our public transport system more inclusive.

Reply by Minister for Transport Ong Ye Kung:

1.     The Government has several measures in place to ensure that persons with disabilities can access point-to-point transport services. Foldable wheelchair users can commute on regular taxis, as LTA requires taxis to have sufficient boot space to accommodate luggage and most foldable wheelchairs. Users of motorised and high-back wheelchairs and personal mobility aids can book SMRT’s London Cabs, which are subsidised by the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF).

2.     In addition, recognising the potential financial difficulties faced by persons with disabilities, the Government has also put in place schemes to defray transport costs in a targeted manner. Persons with disabilities who have been medically certified to be unable to take public transport and are dependent on taxis for their travelling needs can apply for SG Enable’s Taxi Subsidy Scheme (TSS) for travelling to school, work or employment-related training. The TSS covers up to 80% of their transport costs.

3.     We are glad that the Member agrees that ensuring the affordability of point-to-point transport services for persons with disabilities is important. The Government will continue to support persons with disabilities, including ensuring their access to affordable point-to-point transport services.