The Aporia
The Hong Kong government announced plans to introduce a pilot scheme for foreign carers specializing in elder care, offering them salaries that are 10% to 20% higher than those received by current domestic helpers. This initiative aims to address the growing demand for elderly caregivers due to an aging population. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han disclosed these details alongside a report detailing strategies for coping with an aging society. However, Betty Yung Ma Shan-yee, chairwoman of the Hong Kong Employers of Domestic Helpers Association, questioned the necessity of creating this new category of workers, noting that 30% of existing foreign helpers already care for elderly residents. She warned that the scheme could lead to higher wages and leave poorer families without necessary assistance.