Singapore Private dating agencies get $4m boost for activities

Singapore Private dating agencies get $4m boost for activities

SELECTED private dating agencies will get extra arrows to fit onto their Cupid’s bow, courtesy of the Government.

It will provide them with $4 million a year in funding to provide subsidised ’social interaction’ programmes for singles.

These agencies will, however, need to be accredited by the Government.

The first batch of accredited agencies is likely to be announced in October.

There are about 200 such bodies in Singapore, which charge between $50 and $200 monthly for membership.

The funds will be administered by a new body made up of the merger of government matchmaking agencies Social Development Unit and Social Development Service.

The merged body, yet unnamed, will reach out to singles in general, beyond its members.

So it will set up a network of full-time officers to create opportunities for singles to interact at various platforms such as workplaces, community clubs, public sector agencies and companies.

They will plan activities and organise talks and workshops.

They will also organise classes at junior colleges and the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) from Jan 1 next year. These will touch on matters like social etiquette, relationships, and personal grooming and communication skills.

The number of singles has increased steadily over the years. For instance, the proportion of single men in the 30 to 34 age group has increased from 30.7 per cent in 2000, to 34.7 per cent last year.

But surveys conducted by the Government found most singles want to get married and have children.

Source : Straits Times - 22 Aug 2008

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