Heng Chee How
Singapore
“And in the case of overseas training, then there will be specific link-ups into the systems of our overseas partners, for example, if there is a need to further send the injured NSman to the local hospitals for more specialised treatment, that, too, was all planned in as well in terms of the protocols.”
“In addition to conducting regular exchanges with their professional counterparts, SAF personnel in our overseas training detachments participate actively in local community life and contribute back to the local communities, thus contributing to the strengthening of bilateral ties.”
“Mr Chairman, I thank Mr Giam for his question. The NS allowance, the nature of it, it is in a form of honorarium and for that, CPF is not payable. However, I just wanted to emphasise two points. One, within the NS journey, they are actually eligible for NS HOME Awards, which are paid out in the course of the NSmen's journey.”
“Mr Chairman, as we look forward, MINDEF/SAF’s commitment to NS and to our NSmen remains steadfast. We will continue to enhance the NS experience, maximise the contributions of our NSmen, and strengthen recognition for their service.”
“Mr Speaker, we have shown care for our older workers as a Government, as tripartite partners, not only in words but in deeds. As a result, we have made very substantial progress for our older workers, often bucking global trends. The environment we must deal with will be increasingly challenging.”
“Ultimately, fighting age discrimination is not only a legal matter nor is it just a moral imperative. It is also an economic necessity that will help sustain long-term prosperity for all.”
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“Currently, while the ESA empowers AVA to take action against illegal imports and exports of CITES-protected species, it is not specific about AVA's powers with regard to transshipments. The Bill will empower AVA to investigate illegal transshipment or transit cases, and search, inspect, detain, seize or confiscate any illegal CITES-protected species. This provision will be applicable to both travellers and cargoes passing through Singapore. It will enable AVA to act decisively upon receiving strong intelligence and evidence and tip-offs of illegal CITES-protected species being transshipped through Singapore and prevent Singapore from being used as a conduit for the smuggling of CITES-protected species. Next, on treating fake products as if they were genuine. In line with CITES's recommendation, the Bill will allow AVA to take appropriate enforcement actions based on the markings, labels or claims that a product contains a part or derivative of a CITES species, without having to prove that this part or derivative is actually present in the product. Countries like Australia and also Hong Kong have similar provisions. Some examples of fake products are traditional Chinese medicines purporting to contain bear bile, tiger bone, rhino horn or musk. Sales of fake products will damage Singapore's image as a responsible global citizen to the same extent as sales of genuine products, as the international community is quick to judge our reputation based on such claims. In addition, the proliferation of sales of fake products produces "noise" and will complicate our effort to apprehend the genuine cases. Sir, the Bill will also raise the maximum level of penalties to better reflect the severity of the offences and strengthen deterrence against illegal wildlife trade.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." Singapore is a party to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which regulates trade in wildlife. Parliament passed the Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act (ESA) in March 1989 to give effect to CITES in Singapore. The Act was amended in 2002 to include a list of endangered species. Since the last amendment, there have been substantive changes to the CITES enforcement obligations on member states and the interpretation of illegal trade. Thus, there is a need to update and realign the ESA to the changes in the CITES, and to enhance the deterrence against any illegal trade in wildlife through Singapore. My Ministry has carried out a comprehensive review of the ESA. The Endangered Species (Import and Export) Bill would repeal the ESA and re-enact with amendments the ESA. The key features of the Bill are as follows: Firstly, the Bill will strengthen the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority's (AVA) enforcement powers. Changes will, for example, allow enforcement action to be taken against illegal transshipments through Singapore of CITES-protected wildlife species. Secondly, the Bill will raise the maximum level of penalties to ensure an effective deterrence against the illegal trafficking and trade of CITES-protected species. Thirdly, the Bill will update terms, definitions and provisions used in CITES, and align general provisions in the ESA with those in other relevant legislation. Sir, I will elaborate on the key features of the Bill. Strengthening AVA's Enforcement Powers First, on acting against illegal transshipments. Singapore is one of the busiest ports in the world and is an attractive transshipment hub.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, if I remember correctly, even when we prepare such things as barbecued pork in Singapore for sale, there are also strict restrictions on the sort of premises that you use for preparing these things. This is to ensure that foodstuffs that are sold in Singapore meet our safety standards for consumption by our population. I would say that any restriction that AVA may currently impose that actually constrains our increased supply is done for the benefit of the safety of our population. But, as I explained, all measures will be taken in line with developments and technology and additional measures. As soon as we can manage those risks in a very careful and thorough way, we would see how best to relax, because then that would increase the supply and benefit the consumers. So we always look for opportunities for progress but we will never compromise safety for our people. BILL INTRODUCED 2.46 pm ACCOUNTANTS (AMENDMENT) BILL "to amend the Accountants Act (Chapter 2 of the 2005 Revised Edition)", presented by the Second Minister for Finance (Mr Raymond Lim Siang Keat); read the First time; to be read a Second time on the next available sitting of Parliament, and to be printed. ROAD TRAFFIC (AMENDMENT) BILL Order for Second Reading read.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, AVA's role, as far as food safety is concerned, is to make sure that food that is allowed for importation into Singapore meets required safety standards. This is to ensure that our population is protected from known risks. So all our policies are constructed around this primary aim. At the same time, we also want to broaden our import sources. This is to increase our supply resilience because the more we can spread out our sources of supply, the less we are dependent on any one supply, and the disruption such dependence can cause if that supply is disrupted. So we balance between these two. We also review any improvements in technology as well as updates in developments in disease control from these import sources. In my response on the Mad Cow Disease, for example, the approach that we take towards that particular disease, the Member can see that we try to balance the two. And in respect of pork and other such meats and related products from Malaysia and elsewhere, we take the same general approach. We import significant amounts of foodstuffs from Malaysia and we are particularly careful to ensure that this particular supply source provides food that will be safe for our population. This is subject to continual review. For example, in the case of poultry, we have moved, through mutual agreement, to a zonal approach. And where we can safeguard that, then it is allowed to be imported. I think under that general approach, further progress can be made as time goes on and as we review developments on both sides.”
“While FMD does not affect human beings, we still need to safeguard our FMD-free status, because this has a significant impact on our own export trade in meat, milk and dairy products. With regard to poultry, we allow poultry import from the disease-free zones in Peninsular Malaysia that have been established by its Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) working in collaboration with our AVA. This is by mutual agreement between Malaysia and Singapore, for mutual benefits, to safeguard the poultry trade. Stringent movement controls and biosecurity measures implemented in these zones safeguard its farms from outbreaks of Avian Flu.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, we currently do not allow the import of beef products from countries affected by Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), which we all call Mad Cow Disease. This includes beef from the US and Japan. Beef may only be imported from AVA-accredited countries certified to be free from BSE or Mad Cow Disease for six years. This is in view of the long incubation period of the disease, which could be in excess of five years. AVA has recently adopted a risk management approach to thoroughly examine the feasibility of allowing beef imports on a restrictive basis from selected BSE-affected countries. This follows the countries' implementation of effective risk mitigating measures to protect their own people from exposure to infected beef. AVA's assessment would be comprehensive and thorough, covering various key aspects, such as the exporting country's BSE surveillance programme, the traceability of animals, and conformance to the guidelines of the World Animal Health Organisation (OIE). In the case of the United States, AVA has completed its documentary and on-site review of the US system for mitigation of risk from BSE in beef. AVA is ready to lift its import ban on US beef and is currently finalising operational details with US officials, to enable certain types of US beef to be imported into Singapore. AVA will apply the same approach to other BSE-affected countries, including Japan, when considering whether beef imports from such countries could be resumed. It is in our interest to import meat from as many sources as possible, because it enhances our supply resilience. Turning to Malaysia, AVA does not currently allow imports of beef, mutton and pork from Peninsular Malaysia because of the outbreaks of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) there.”
“Ong Soh Khim asked the Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports (a) from 2002 to the present, (i) what is the number of abused men who have been physically and mentally abused by their female partners; and (ii) how many men have taken a personal protection order against their female partners; (b) whether there is a helpline for these men to call for help; and (c) whether there are counselling services available for these men. The Minister of State for Community Development, Youth and Sports (Mrs Yu-Foo Yee Shoon) (for the Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports): Mr Speaker, Sir, with your permission, I will answer Question Nos. 5 and 6 together. Mr Speaker: Please do so.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, as soon as possible. But, at the same time, I should want to use this opportunity also to make the point that we cannot handle problems this way. There is a Chinese saying that just because you might choke on something, you stop eating. That is not the way to solve a problem. Therefore, I would say, let us make the equipment as safe as possible. Let us look at some of the practicable measures that we can take. And then let us remind residents, whether it is the children or even the adults, that this is public equipment, it is for the benefit of the community, let us have some sense of care and ownership. This is for everyone's benefit - do not do this kind of things. We can then all work together, and if we see suspicious behaviour - people who are doing this or if we know of people who are doing this - we report them, and we bring the law upon them. This will send a signal to the rest that, as a society, we do not stand for this kind of behaviour. And then there can be better things put in place for all of society. COUNSELLING AND CRISIS ASSISTANCE PROGRAMMES FOR MEN IN NEED OF HELP 5. Assoc. Prof. Ong Soh Khim asked the Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports (a) what are the specific help, counselling and crisis assistance programmes other than "fathering programmes" for helping men to deal with stresses associated with problems related to being breadwinners and to elderly men; (b) whether there are any crisis shelters for men; (c) what are the specific helplines that men can call for help and counselling; and (d) if his Ministry will launch a campaign to promote this whole range of programmes as a holistic package to help men in need. 6. Assoc. Prof.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, as I have explained, the material that is used to make this playground equipment does not catch fire easily. But if a person is bent on setting fire to something, then he can always find means of setting fire to those things. Having said that, the HDB is working with the SCDF and the Town Councils to consider whether additional measures can be put in place to further safeguard the safety of this equipment.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, first of all, as I have mentioned in my response earlier, HDB is working with the SCDF and the Town Councils to see what practical improvements by way of measures that we can take with respect to playground equipment sited at void decks. Having said that, I should also emphasise that the equipment do meet with safety standards and they are made from materials that do not catch fire easily. We can well understand that if someone wants to set fire to something, then he can set fire to it, and it is really a question of arson. The answer to that kind of a problem is really by public education and enforcement. And when we do catch the people who do these things, they would be subjected to the law so that a clear message would be sent. I would say that we have to proceed in a balanced manner and to see what practical things that we can do on top of the current specifications to further enhance the safety of these equipment. But we should not go overboard and say that because one set of equipment was set on fire, therefore, we should not put the equipment there, because then you are really going to lose a lot of other benefits, such as children being able to play safely in all weather. Mr Steve Chia Kiah Hong: Sir, point of clarification. If this material is inflammable, and if children are mischievous and set fire to it, it is going to cause potential loss of lives of the residents staying on top. And one life lost is one life too many. Should the Ministry not actually do something to remove this potential hazard by siting the playground outside the void deck or, at least, use non-flammable material?”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, there are currently 73 playgrounds located at HDB void decks. These are provided by the Town Councils to enable young children to play in a safe and sheltered environment. Many of them are located at void decks near kindergartens or in areas that have outdoor space constraints. The current performance standard specified for playground equipment installed in Singapore is the SS 457 - the standard set by SPRING Singapore - which focuses on the durability of material and the safety of play equipment for public use. There is no specific flammability requirement specified within the standard. This is also the case for America, Australia and Canada. Town Councils deploy playground equipment that complies with the specified standards. The equipment are durable and are made of materials that do not ignite easily, unless there are deliberate attempts to set them on fire. HDB is working with the SCDF and Town Councils to look into whether there might be additional measures that can be put in place to mitigate any fire hazard arising from deliberate attempts to set fire to play equipment sited at void decks.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, since 2004, NParks has collaborated with the Blue Water Volunteers to monitor coral cover at seven reef sites. These are Pulau Hantu, Hantu West, Patch Reef, Pulau Semakau, Pulau Jong, Pulau Satumu, the Sisters Islands and Kusu Island, which are all in the south of Singapore. In addition to these sites, NParks has also visited at least 11 other coral reef sites and at least 12 inter-tidal sites in the past year to conduct a preliminary assessment of the biodiversity in these areas. What I want to assure the Member is that we are taking concrete steps in these areas to survey our biodiversity and to build up our knowledge and also to update our database. And based on this, we can then have a systematic way of planning how to conserve. Even as we have to develop Singapore economically, we are committed to balancing between conserving our heritage in our biodiversity while at the same time pursuing our economic progress. So we are trying our best to do so in a balanced way. CHILDREN'S PLAYGROUNDS AT HDB VOID DECKS 4. Mr Steve Chia Kiah Hong asked the Minister for National Development if children's playgrounds should be built at HDB void decks, considering the fire hazard they can pose.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, NParks maintains a repository of information and survey data on Singapore's natural habitats. As part of efforts to keep the repository up-to-date, NParks has recently initiated a 2-year comprehensive survey of these habitats. The survey will cover both terrestrial and marine sites. Dr Geh Min asked if better protection would be given to the marine biodiversity areas. Sir, we recognise the importance of safeguarding Singapore's natural heritage, both terrestrial and marine. The gazetting of the Nature Reserve and the identification of Nature Areas in the Master Plan 2003, including that of the Sisters' Island area as a Marine Nature area, reflect the Government's commitment to biodiversity conservation. We have a system in place to ensure that environmental factors are considered when development projects are proposed in marine nature areas. Relevant agencies work together to assess the potential environmental impact of proposed projects. Comprehensive environmental studies are carried out where necessary and measures are put in place to minimise any adverse impact. However, while efforts are being made to minimise potential impacts from development on identified nature areas, we also need to recognise the fact that Singapore is constrained by limited land and sea space. Therefore, we need to be pragmatic, and balance nature conservation with competing development plans.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, if the Member is asking how many people did not fully pay up after being ordered by the court to make payment, I do not have the figure here today. MARINE ECOSYSTEMS IN SINGAPORE 3. Dr Geh Min asked the Minister for National Development in view of the increasing evidence of economic, scientific and medical value of marine biodiversity and threats being faced by Singapore's marine ecosystems, (a) if a comprehensive survey of Singapore's marine ecosystems is being planned or conducted; and (b) will better protection be given to these areas in order to ensure their sustainability.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, first of all, in terms of the number of households who receive summonses to go to the Small Claims Tribunal and to the Subordinate Courts, we have to see this in context. As a percentage of the total number of HDB households, it is less than 2%. More than 98% have no difficulties paying their monthly S&CC. And of the remaining 2%, I would say that a significant percentage - I do not have the figure here with me - also make an effort to work something out mutually with the Town Councils upon receiving their notices. Of the remainder, they go to court and orders are made. I would say that most of them would then make payments. Mr Steve Chia Kiah Hong: Sir, what I want to clarify with the Minister of State is that the Minister does not have the figure of how many people could afford to make payment after being ordered by the court.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, as I have explained, there are those who upon receiving the notices of summons to court would then approach the Town Councils to work out a mutually agreeable instalment plan. For the rest, their cases would be heard in court and the court would then make appropriate orders. They would then have to pay according to the court orders.”
“- [Mr Mah Bow Tan]. Adjourned accordingly at Twenty-nine minutes past Five o'clock pm to a date to be fixed. WRITTEN ANSWER TO QUESTION FOR ORAL ANSWER NOT ANSWERED BY 3.00 PM ENERGY-EFFICIENT BUILDINGS (Tax incentives for builders) 18. Dr Chong Weng Chiew asked the Minister for National Development if his Ministry intends to introduce greater tax incentives for builders to construct buildings which are more energy efficient.”
“Finally, we will replace the current Minimum Quantity System, or MQS, which prescribes the allowable limits of error in the net quantities of pre-packaged goods with the internationally accepted Average Quantity System, or AQS. The AQS will be fairer to both manufacturers and consumers than the MQS as it does away with the need for the manufacturers to overfill the net contents in pre-packed goods, and spares consumers from bearing the cost of overfilling. The AQS is recommended by the International Organisation of Legal Metrology and is also widely accepted internationally in such countries as the United States, the European Union, Australia and New Zealand. Changing from MQS to AQS will therefore align us with international standards. Clause 2 introduces the "non-standard package" as a package enclosing goods which fall short of the stated quantity by a deficiency greater than the allowable margin of error. Clause 18 introduces the offences related to the implementation of the AQS, while clause 29 allows for regulations to be made on specific matters relating to the AQS. Conclusion Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, the Bill updates the provisions in the Weights and Measures Act in light of the changes in the business environment over the years. In preparation of the Bill, SPRING has consulted manufacturers, repairers and businesses and has received positive support for the proposed amendments. Sir, I beg to move. Question put, and agreed to. Bill accordingly read a Second time and committed to a Committee of the whole House. The House immediately resolved itself into a Committee on the Bill. - [Mr Heng Chee How]. Bill considered in Committee; reported without amendment; read a Third time and passed. ADJOURNMENT Resolved, That Parliament do now adjourn to a date to be fixed.”
“The benefit of the scheme is that verification will no longer be constrained by SPRING's capacity. With a larger pool of AVs, the turnaround time for the verification of instruments will potentially be reduced from three days to less than a day. SPRING aims to fully transfer the role of verification to AVs within three years. The AV scheme will replace the current mandatory Licensing Scheme for manufacturers and repairers of weighing and measuring instruments. Clause 13 repeals section 13 of the Act which mandates the licensing. Clauses 2, 7 and 25 spell out the main duties and responsibilities of an AV. Clause 11 prohibits any unauthorised persons from performing the functions of an AV. Second, we will revoke the Metrication Order. References to imperial and traditional units will be deleted from the Act, with the exception of some local customary weights and measures used in trade transaction at Chinese medical halls. Clauses 3 and 4 remove references to imperial units, whereas clause 17 outlines the offences in respect of the failure to use the metric system in certain circumstances. In addition, clause 31 introduces the new versions of the First, Second and Third Schedules, all of which no longer contain references to imperial units. Third, we will introduce the Accuracy Label as a mandatory mark to be affixed on all instruments used for trade through clauses 2, 6, and 7. The label will allow consumers and businesses to identify an instrument that has been verified for accuracy, as well as enable them to know when the instrument was last verified and by whom.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." Sir, the Weights and Measures Act was first enacted in 1976 to safeguard fair trade by preventing unfair trading due to short-weights or measures. The Act is currently administered by SPRING Singapore, which enforces controls on weighing and measuring instruments used for trade, as well as on net contents of pre-packaged goods. SPRING issues licences to manufacturers and repairers of weighing and measuring instruments as well as registers instruments approved for trade use. It verifies all new or repaired instruments, and stamps and seals such instruments to indicate approval and to prevent tampering. It also inspects instruments for inaccuracies and tampering, and investigates complaints about short weights and measures. The Weights and Measures Act was last revised in 1985. Over the years, manufacturers and repairers have developed the competency to perform verification work. The Imperial Units system is also no longer widely used. A review conducted by SPRING in 2001 has identified various areas in the current Act that would have to be updated so that it would remain relevant to our industry needs and be aligned to practices in other developed economies. We have prepared the Weights and Measures (Amendment) Bill to incorporate the various proposed updates. Main provisions in the Bill Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, allow me to take the House through the main provisions of the Bill. First, we will introduce the new Authorised Verifier, or AV Scheme. Under this scheme, SPRING will appoint qualified parties as AVs to take on the role of verifying weighing or measuring instruments for their fitness for trade use.”
“The amendments proposed in this Bill will enable the Board of Architects to play a more effective role in helping the profession meet these challenges. Sir, I beg to move. Question put, and agreed to. Bill accordingly read a Second time and committed to a Committee of the whole House. The House immediately resolved itself into a Committee on the Bill. - [Mr Heng Chee How]. Bill considered in Committee; reported without amendment; read a Third time and passed. HOUSING AND DEVELOPMENT (AMENDMENT) BILL Order for Second Reading read.”
“The following amendments are replicated in this Bill: (a) to enlarge the composition of the Board and allow for the election of representatives; (b) to set up a two-tier discipliniary process comprising the Investigation Committee and Disciplinary Committee; (c) to deter unprofessional conduct by tightening penalties against errant professionals; and (d) to allow for licensing of limited liability partnerships to provide architectural services, and revise start-up requirements. Power to reject names of new architectural practices In addition to these four key features, this Bill has another amendment to allow the BOA to reject the registration of names of new architectural practices, if it deems that proposed names are likely to cause confusion to the public. Architects attach a high value to the name of their practice because the design of the completed building is highly visible to the public. Buildings are often associated with the architects who designed them. This is why successful Singapore architects are being commissioned to design buildings overseas such as those in China, India, the Middle East and elsewhere. Building designs are the intellectual property of the architect and the firm to which the architect belongs. The Board has received complaints that some newly formed practices have chosen names that are very similar to established firms. This will cause confusion to potential clients. The proposed amendment will empower the Board to reject the registration of names of new practices where there is a high likelihood of such names causing confusion. Conclusion Sir, the challenges that are facing the architectural profession would be to uphold professional standards and raise the quality of architectural designs.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." The Architects Act was enacted to provide a framework for registration of architects and to regulate ethics, conduct and professionalism of architects. The Act also enables the Board of Architects, or BOA, to license corporations to supply architectural services in Singapore. Similar to the Professional Engineers Act, the last set of amendments came into operation on 1st January 2004 to provide for continuing professional development as well as some other consequential amendments. In the changing landscape of today's industry, Registered Architects face similar challenges to those outlined earlier for the Professional Engineers. The BOA would need to streamline their operations and have greater autonomy, and place greater emphasis on upholding the professional standards of Registered Architects. As such, a comprehensive review was also done for the Architects Act. My Ministry has actively consulted the Singapore Institute of Architects during the preparation of this Bill. The Institute has given its support for the Bill. Sir, as the architectural and engineering professions are closely linked to each other, the changes proposed in the Architects (Amendment) Bill are largely similar to those recommended in the Professional Engineers (Amendment) Bill.”
“The idea now is for the PEB to offer it at least twice a year, or more often if there is a need. As to the suggestion whether particular pre-existing qualifications can be considered for a waiver, the Ministry will take that into account when drawing up the rules. Question put, and agreed to. Bill accordingly read a Second time and committed to a Committee of the whole House. The House immediately resolved itself into a Committee on the Bill. - [Mr Heng Chee How]. Bill considered in Committee; reported without amendment; read a Third time and passed. ARCHITECTS (AMENDMENT) BILL Order for Second Reading read.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I thank the Member for her comments and questions. First, on the intention behind defining the category of engineering services, it is to enable the set-up of limited liability corporations to provide such services. That is why you will see in the definition that it points to the provision of consultancy services in this area of engineering. Therefore, for the Member's question on lecturers, academic staff members who lecture in the subjects of engineering, it is not the intention to cover them under this particular definition. As to the Member's question on compulsory voting, actually we would assume that every professional would be keenly interested in the affairs pertaining to his own profession. So, such a requirement would actually not impose any heavy burden on any professional. Indeed, it is to signal the interest of the Government that people of that profession should actively know what is going on and, for a Professional Engineers Board to be formed, who leads it and so on. They should participate in the decision-making leading to the election of that Board. On the question of why do we want to license specialist engineers, one big part of the reason came out of the joint MND and MOM study post-Nicoll Highway, and it was found that there are certain categories of specialist engineers, eg, those doing geo-technical works, these are important specialisms, and, therefore, they should be looked at very carefully. So, this was set up in order to keep a keen eye on this particular category. But the provisions also enable us to include other categories in future, if there is a requirement for that. As to the question on the examination, it will be a written examination.”
“So, would the Ministry consider providing such an alternative, an examination waiver to the applicants?”
“I would like to ask the Minister to clarify on the rationale for this compulsory voting. The next query I have is on section 8, which provides for the creation of a new register of specialist professional engineers, and section 15A provides for the registration of these specialist professional engineers. What are the aims and objectives of introducing this new category of professional engineers called the specialist professional engineers? Is it specially to cater to those graduates who have a post-graduate degree? I hope the Minister can further clarify on this. And what are the branches of professional engineering services that will fall into this category of "specialist professional engineers", besides considering the qualification of the applicants for this particular category of PEs? And in looking at the post-graduate degrees that will be considered, can the Minister also provide more details on what kind of post- graduate degrees are we considering, eg, Master of Science, Master of Engineering, doctorate degree? The next query I have is on section 15, which changes the qualifying requirement for the registration of PE to include an examination. Sir, for the registration to include an examination by the Board, what kind of examination would this be? Would it be a written examination or an interview, for example? I hope more details can be provided on this examination. My next query is on this examination to be passed by the applicants. In the US, many PE Boards in the different states actually provide for an eligibility requirement for waiver of examination, ie, applicants can apply for a waiver of this examination, so that they can be exempted from taking this when they apply for a PE. The current Bill itself does not provide for such a waiver.”
“For licensed unlimited corporations, the proportion of directors, who must either be professional engineers, architects or land surveyors, is halved from 100% to a simple majority. This requirement is aligned to that of licensed limited corporations. Sir, the challenges facing the engineering profession as well as the entire construction sector in the years ahead will be to uphold high professional standards, raise quality and safety standards. The amendments proposed in this Bill will enable the Professional Engineers Board to play a more effective role in helping the engineering profession meet these challenges. Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move. Question proposed. Assoc. Prof. Ong Soh Khim (Nominated Member): Mr Speaker, Sir, thank you for allowing me to speak on this Bill. Before I begin, I have to declare my interest. I am a mechanical engineer by training with a Bachelor and Doctorate degrees in mechanical engineering. I just have a few queries to raise on this Bill. The first is the new section 2(f) on the definition of "professional engineering services" to include consultancy or advisory services that requires a person to engage in professional engineering work. Sir, would this definition include all engineering educators, ie, all the lecturers in the polytechnics, ITEs and the universities? Would the Minister clarify further on this? And, for example, in the US, the US Texas Board of Professional Engineers actually has a separate category of PE called the Engineering Educator Licence. So would the Minister consider a separate category of engineering educator licence to cater to the various engineering lecturers that we have in the polytechnics and the universities? Next, in new section 4A, the Act is amended to include compulsory voting.”
“The proposed two-tier disciplinary process is modelled after the medical, dental and accounting professions in Singapore. An Investigation Committee will first investigate complaints and make recommendations to the Board. If the Board decides that the complaint should be proceeded further, it will appoint a Disciplinary Committee to inquire into and decide on the case. To step up deterrence against unprofessional conduct, the Bill will impose stiffer penalties against errant professional engineers. The maximum period of suspension will be increased from one to two years. If a professional engineer is de-registered following a disciplinary inquiry, he will have to wait three instead of two years before he may re-apply for registration. The Bill also allows the Board to impose a combination of disciplinary actions, such as de-registration, suspension, fine and censure, as well as to recover legal costs incurred during the disciplinary proceedings. Sir, other amendments wlll also be made to facilitate the promotion of engineering businesses. The Limited Liability Partnership Act, which came into effect in April this year, provides for a new corporate entity called the Limited Liability Partnership (LLP). This Bill allows the Board to license LLPs which can supply professional engineering services. The licensing requirements are consistent with existing ones for corporations and multi-disciplinary partnerships. To facilitate start-up companies to supply professional engineering services, the Bill will reduce the paid-up capital requirement for limited licensed corporations from $1 million to $500,000. A limited corporation must continue to be insured against professional liability to qualify for the licence.”
“To maintain registration standards, the PEB will introduce an examination criterion. These streamlined qualifying requirements will align the registration process here with those of advanced countries, such as the US. The Bill will also help the PEB focus its efforts on the development of key engineering disciplines. Presently, although the PEB registers 12 engineering disciplines, only professional engineers in the three construction-related disciplines of civil, mechanical and electrical engineering are required to submit plans and certificates to the public authorities for approval. As a result, very few engineers in non-construction-related disciplines choose to be registered. Engineers registered in the non-construction-related disciplines account for only 4% of the total register of 3,161 professional engineers. In the past two years, only one engineer has requested for registration in a non-construction-related discipline. In view of this, the Bill prescribes that only the three construction-related disciplines will be regulated. Provisions are in place for other disciplines to be regulated in the future, should the need arise. In May 2005, the Government accepted the recommendation of the joint MND-MOM Review Committee on construction safety to require deep excavation works to be carried out by professional engineers specialised in geo-technical engineering. The Bill thus makes provisions for the PEB to register categories of specialist professional engineers who will be required to take on specialist areas of work. Sir, this Bill will also revise disciplinary procedures to provide for greater transparency and expedite the handling of complaints against professional engineers.”
“To enable the Professional Engineers Board (PEB) to undertake its functions more effectively, the membership of the PEB will be expanded from 10 to 15. The expanded Board will also be able to take on new functions, such as administrating the examination system for registration and registration system of specialist engineers. Election of Board members will be introduced. Up to six members will be elected. The Minister will appoint up to another six members. The President of the Institution of Engineers Singapore and the Commissioner of Building Control will continue to be ex-officio members. There will also be one representative from the Board of Architects. Similar to the approach taken by the medical and dental professions, all registered practitioners will be required to vote in the election of the six representatives. Those who fail to do so without valid reasons will not be entitled to apply for practising certificates. The President of the PEB will no longer be appointed by the Minister. Board members will elect from amongst themselves, other than the ex-officio members and the representative from the Board of Architects, their President. Sir, the Bill will also simplify the criteria on work experience for registration as professional engineers. Currently, in addition to acceptable academic qualifications, applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in Singapore and passed an examination, or five years of professional experience, including at least two years of practical experience in Singapore, or ten years of practical experience in engineering works. The proposed amendment will streamline the criteria on work experience to a single level of at least four years.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." The Professional Engineers Act was enacted to provide for the registration of professional engineers to regulate the conduct of professional engineers, and to license corporations that supply professional engineering services in Singapore. The last set of amendments which came into operation on 1st January 2004 set in place requirements for continuing professional development. With the changing needs of the construction industry today, my Ministry has undertaken a comprehensive review of the Professional Engineers Act. The focus was on the areas of professionalism, construction safety and the promotion of engineering services. The proposed amendments will also give the Professional Engineers Board more autonomy as well as streamline their operations. My Ministry has sought the views of the Institution of Engineers Singapore and the Association of Consulting Engineers Singapore during the preparation of the Bill. These professional bodies have given their support for the Bill. The key features of the Bill are as follows: (1) To enlarge the composition of the Board and allow for election of Board members; (2) To streamline the scope and requirements of registration as professional engineers; (3) To introduce categories of registration for specialist professional engineers; (4) To set up a two-tier disciplinary process comprising the Investigation Committee and Disciplinary Committee; (5) To deter unprofessional conduct by tightening penalties against errant professionals; and (6) To allow for the licensing of limited liability partnerships to provide engineering sevices and revise start-up requirements. Sir, I will elaborate on the proposed amendments.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I thank the Nominated Member for her views and suggestions. We will take in those views and consider them, as appropriate. On the question whether or not we should map out, on a comprehensive national basis, our natural habitat, I would just like to point out that the mission of the MTI is an economic one. It is when we are pursuing this mission that we are looking at different places and we say that, "Now, let us do something here." But we also know that, if we want to do something at a particular location, there could, possibly in some cases, be environmental impact, and that is why when we decide to pick a particular place, then we go to that impact study to see how best to approach the subject matter, and not the other way around.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to reiterate the Ministry's stand that, in wanting to promote economic development in Singapore, we are actually on the side of wanting to achieve that objective in tandem with seeing how best to also protect our environment. Studies, like the Environmental Impact Assessment, are actually demonstrative of our commitment in this area. Economic development can happen anywhere in Singapore, depending on the places that are zoned for industrial use and so on. So, whether or not there is a need for a large-scale or detailed Environmental Impact Assessment, we will have got to judge it on a case-by-case basis. But, again, I would want to return to my point here that, if there are suggestions that the Member would like to give to the Ministry as to how to better schedule such studies or see when such studies might be necessary, we will certainly welcome those comments, and we would take those into consideration in improving our methods where necessary.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, firstly, I will take the Nominated Member's suggestion about providing more information from the Environmental Impact Assessment and how to make it more available into consideration by the Ministry. Secondly, in terms of the technical information of the EIA, I am afraid that I do not have those specific technical information. But I would just like to assure the Nominated Member and all Members of the House that, from the MTI's perspective, we certainly do not want to do any more disruption or damage to our natural habitat or marine life than is absolutely necessary. That is why, for a reclamation project like that, we commission a study and get it done by a body, in this case, DHI, that is competent in this regard. The entire purpose of doing this is to make sure that, even as we pursue the reclamation project in order to advance our economic objectives, we give balanced and focused attention on how we might be able to achieve that in tandem with taking care of our natural environment. So, this is the assurance that I would like to give to the Nominated Member and all Members of the House.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, JTC, which is the appointed agent for the reclamation project at Pulau Ular, had commissioned an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study three years ago to determine the feasibility of reclaiming land at that particular site. The study was conducted by DHI Water and Environment (Singapore) Pte Ltd, which is an internationally renowned hydraulic institute, and included a survey of the corals and marine life around the area. Earlier this year, a supplementary assessment was also conducted to augment the earlier study. DHI's assessment indicated that, with proper sequencing of the reclamation procedures and proper controls to limit the release of silt into the waters, marine life in these waters would not be endangered. In line with DHI's assessment, JTC will work with the reclamation contractors to put in place necessary mitigating measures to minimise silt release. These include the use of fill materials with low silt content, and close monitoring of the sand filling process. In addition, at locations, such as Terumbu Bayan, where the corals will be directly impacted, these corals will be relocated to suitable locations. JTC will be pleased to work with interested organisations for this relocation exercise. This reclamation project is currently in the advanced stage of planning. JTC has submitted its plans to the relevant regulatory agencies for approval. If necessary, JTC will work with the relevant agencies to put in place additional checks to ensure that the project minimises negative impact on the environment and marine habitats.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to reiterate that, at this point, there is really no need for us to hypothesise whether or not there will be two identical proposals except for the energy aspects. But I do want to reiterate that the URA and BCA guidelines would put us in good stead, vis-a-vis international standards. Column No : 999 LAND RECLAMATION AT PULAU ULAR (Environmental impact) 4. Dr Geh Min asked the Minister for Trade and Industry whether an Environmental Impact Assessment has been done with reference to land reclamation at Pulau Ular and, if so, what are the findings and recommendations particularly pertaining to the impact on coral reefs and marine lives of the surrounding areas and, if not, can one be done as soon as possible.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I believe that the guidelines by URA and BCA are robust and they do address the needs to balance amongst different requirements. There is no need for us, at this point, to argue in the abstract how those IR developments would actually come about. I think in time to come, when the submissions are there, we would see how they meet those requirements. But I do believe that the URA and BCA requirements, as they stand, are very good standards and they would put all developments in Singapore in good compliance with international standards.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, because this concerns the licensing of contractors, certainly the Singapore Contractors Association (SCAL) has been consulted and they are still being consulted on this. At the same time, other associations related to the construction industry, I would imagine that BCA would also be in touch with them, if not already so, and would also value their inputs and suggestions. In this regard, relevant associations are certainly welcome to provide their inputs. As I mentioned, this is still in the discussion stage and the Bill will only be ready at the end of the year and will only be tabled in this House early next year. So during this period, BCA will undertake these consultations. TAXI DRIVERS (Earnings) 12. Mdm Cynthia Phua asked the Minister for Transport what is the situation given that more taxi drivers are unable to earn enough to pay for their monthly rentals.”
“At the same time, we recognise that that there are existing contractors who may not meet fully these qualifying criteria, but have adequate experience in the industry. For such contractors, we can consider transitional provisions, such as mandatory training in lieu of formal qualifications, to enable them to be licensed within a grace period. The Building Control Act will have to be amended to implement the contractors licensing scheme and the additional proposals that came out of the construction safety review following the Nicoll Highway incident, eg, the recommendations pertaining to deep excavations. The Bill to make the necessary amendments to the Building Control Act is likely to be ready by the end of the year. It will be introduced early next year.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, my Ministry announced the proposed contractors licensing scheme two months ago. The objective of the scheme was to raise the level of professionalism of builders in Singapore. The intent is to require those contractors who undertake works that needed building control approval, and specialist contractors who undertake works that have a significant impact on construction safety, to be licensed. Details of the licensing framework are still being worked out. BCA has been consulting with and gathering feedback from the industry, and will consider views and suggestions from the industry. The licensing criteria for the builders are likely to include such requirements as the adequacy of management structure, safety record and financial strength. For example, firms will need to appoint qualified and experienced persons in two key management positions, namely, an Approved Person (AP) who will be responsible for the management of the firm, and a Technical Controller (TC) who will be responsible for the supervision of construction works. Both the AP and TC will need to have some formal educational qualifications, and at least 3-5 years working experience in construction projects. The AP may also need to be a director of the firm. The detailed qualifications for the AP and TC are still being finalised. In the case of specialist contractors, due to the specialised nature of their works, the qualifying criteria for a licence are likely to be higher. For example, the key personnel may need to have at least a university degree that is recognised by the Professional Engineers Board, and at least five years of relevant working experience.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, there are two main types of clothes drying systems in HDB flats, namely, the pipe socket clothes drying system, ie, the one where you stick the bamboo pole into, and the recessed clothes drying system, which is the one that, for example, after a Main Upgrading Programme, you will find them being constructed between two space-adding items. Both these systems are safe to use as long as the users are careful and take the necessary precautions when hanging out their clothes. For example, residents should not overload the bamboo poles. Those who prefer not to use the bamboo pole holders can install retractable clothes drying racks. Alternatively, they can dry their clothes indoors by using the clothes drying racks provided in the kitchen. HDB has piloted a new parallel clothes drying rack system in some new flats. Under this system, the poles are fixed in place and parallel to the façade of the flats. If successful, the HDB will consider implementing this system for all new flats and also for existing flats undergoing upgrading. LICENSING SCHEME FOR CONTRACTORS (Update) 11. Dr Amy Khor Lean Suan asked the Minister for National Development (a) if he will provide an update on the proposed mandatory licensing scheme for contractors and specialist contractors announced by his Ministry; (b) what are the likely criteria for the licensing of these firms; and (c) when will this scheme be implemented.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I think we have got to distinguish between trying to address the needs of a particular group who, for example, after divorce and selling their matrimonial flat and are in financial difficulties and find that the alternative ways of staying with family or renting a room outside, perhaps find it is not possible for them, these are very specific circumstances. But we should not then generalise and say that every household which sells its flat and wants to rent from the HDB is necessarily of these circumstances. So, what I would like to assure Members is that, when we receive the appeals, we look at these cases on their merits, and we have made exceptions from this policy. But I would not want to go and change the entire policy and say that if anybody were to sell his flat and come to the HDB and say, "Now I want to rent one from you", that we would then say, "OK, please join the queue" and intensify the competition with the other group who are generally of lower income who really need this kind of subsidised rental flats and we want to help them this way. So, I think it is a question of how we manage between these two sources of demand, by flexibly taking into account the circumstances of each case. INCIDENTS OF PEOPLE FALLING FROM HDB FLAT BALCONY (Preventive measures) 10. Mr Zainudin Nordin asked the Minister for National Development in view of the recent incident of a lady who fell from the flat balcony while hanging clothes and our aging population, (a) what measures are being introduced to prevent such incidents from recurring; and (b) whether the Housing and Development Board is exploring newer, efficient, senior citizen-friendly and safer designs for future flats.”
“I would rather say something that is more precise. I will get the number.”
“I do not have the precise figures with me here, but I can assure Dr Wang as well as other Members of this House that, every day, I see many of these appeal cases with the facts and the recommendations, and I can testify to the fact that the HDB looks at every such case and they are willing to put up these cases for deviation, ie, approval, to waive those waiting periods, and allocate the rental flats without requiring the person to wait out the 30-month normal waiting period. And I do approve many of them, practically on a daily basis. But if you would like the precise number, I could find that out for you.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, first I would like to reiterate that every case of appeal will be studied and looked at on its own merits. For example, not every woman who is divorced is necessarily in financial difficulty and, therefore, the urgency that applies to each case would also differ. So, I would go back to saying that the HDB and the Ministry of National Development look at every case on its merits, and we have made exceptions to the waiting period as well as to the application for the second concessionary loan, depending on the financial situation and other surrounding circumstances of each case.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, HDB rental flats in Singapore are targeted at helping the families who have financial difficulty in buying a flat of their own, and they are built and rented out on a highly subsidised basis. So, because of this, we try to manage competition for this limited stock of highly subsidised flats. Accordingly, the policy has been to have a waiting period of 30 months for people who have sold their HDB flats and then want to apply to rent a HDB flat from the HDB. In cases where there are special circumstances - as all MPs know, we have constituents who approach us and we make appeals for them - each case is looked at on its own merits and, where the situation warrants it, exceptions have been made.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, as I had earlier responded to another Member, the Town Councils, when selecting the blocks, would take into account how much they would actually cost if they were to do it on the basis of this block versus that block, and they know that their own contribution on a per benefitting unit basis is capped at $5,000. Therefore, working backwards, they would know how much it would cost a benefitting unit if they would have to do it in that block. So through such background work and homework, they would actually know which blocks are best selected for TC-LUP. Because they also know at the end of it, it is not something where the Town Council or the Town Council's Chairman can then just dictate. It is also subject to a vote by the residents there. So if you do something that is out of proportion, they will vote against it. EXEMPTED BUSINESS (Motion) Resolved, That the proceedings on the business set down on the Order Paper for today be exempted at this day's sitting from the provisions of Standing Order No. 2. - [Mr Mah Bow Tan]. TOWN COUNCILS (AMENDMENT) BILL Debate resumed.”
“By the very design of the Town Council LUP, I would imagine that the Town Councils that are interested in mounting such an exercise will carefully look at the blocks to see which are the ones that would be very cost effective to do, not only from the Town Council's point of view, but after netting out their share of up to $5,000 from the cost divided by the units, the amount that would have to be co-shared by the benefiting units of the blocks that they choose would be attractive to the households there. I would imagine that is how they would go about doing it and, if so, I would therefore surmise that the amount that they pay would not be out of proportion. So I think it is really not something that is created out of this scheme. It is something that each Town Council will have got to see how best to choose their blocks. And I cannot be advising Mr Low on how he runs his Town Council.”
“So when Mr Chiam spoke about these amendments not helping to enable Town Councils to move towards more self-management and giving residents more flexibility through the Town Councils, I think he got it wrong. It actually does enable a lot of that.”