Raymond Lim Siang Keat
Singapore
“Mr Chairman, Sir, we launched a slew of measures over the past three years to effect a major transformation to our land transport system. These cover not just big projects like our $60 billion investment to double our rail network but also smaller and equally important things like bus route information at every bus stop and parking guidan…”
“I think the better approach to help Singaporeans cope with the cost-of-living pressures is that which has been outlined by the Finance Minister. That is, instead of trying to bring specific costs down, it is better to give help on the income front.”
“From the experiences of these ongoing public education initiatives, CFC is in the midst of developing a set of guidelines on proper cycling behaviour on dedicated cycling paths. Apart from these efforts, TP has been giving customised talks in schools and at community-level events to provide tips on safe cycling.”
“Er Lee Bee Wah: Sir, I would like to thank the Minister for the comprehensive answer. I have four supplementary questions. Since the announcement of the NSE, I have been receiving overwhelming feedback from my residents from three condominium developments.”
“The Member's second question refers to the noise mitigation measures. LTA actually has considerable experience in doing these. This is not the first time that LTA, because of the compact nature of Singapore, has had to build a major road in close proximity to residential areas.”
“Yes, on a weekly basis. The second question is how much have been claimed to date. We started this on 18th December 2010. As at the end of last year 28th December, we have a total of about 169,000 transactions. We have refunded about $46,000. There was $300,000 overcharged and $46,000 refunded.”
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“6 minutes between Bukit Batok and Jurong East, down from the current 3.2 minutes during the morning peak period. Other stretches of the NSEW Lines will also see higher capacities and shorter headways. Further, we have decided to open our new rail lines in phases even though this is less cost effective than waiting for the whole line to be completed. We opened the Circle Line from Bartley to Marymount in May last year and will be opening the segment from Bartley to Dhoby Ghaut on 17th April this year. This will mean that half the Circle Line will be opened this year and LTA expects that this will directly benefit 200,000 commuters daily. The other half from Harbourfront to Marymount will be completed next year, while the Circle Line Extension to Marina Bay is targeted for completion in 2012. The Circle Line, when fully opened, will also help to relieve crowding levels on critical stretches of the existing MRT lines by 10% to 15%. What this means is that when both the Circle Line and the extra capacity in the NSEW Lines come on-stream, the current crowding levels at the most crowded stations of about 4.5 passengers per square metre will improve to about four passengers per square metre. In the interim, where it is not possible to add on more train trips because of constraints in infrastructure and rolling stock, we will facilitate parallel bus services to provide an alternative. We have done so with service 128 serving the rail segment from Ang Mo Kio to Shenton Way. It has not been as successful as we had hoped as commuters found its travel time not sufficiently competitive with the MRT's. We are studying how best to further improve the attractiveness of such bus services as they will add needed capacity in these busy corridors.”
“In addition to public education efforts, LTA deploys traffic wardens and make use of cameras on the buses to enforce the rules. Moving forward, LTA will study the use of roadside enforcement cameras to augment the existing enforcement efforts. 1.45 pm Beyond these, we will work with the operators to see what more can be done to further increase frequencies on heavily-used bus services during the rush hours. We hope to make an announcement in the next few months. We will extend the mandatory Give Way to Buses Scheme to another 158 bus bays this year from the current 44. LTA is currently looking at the possibility of giving buses signal priority at traffic junctions. SBST and SMRT collectively are bringing in 400 new buses this year. Second, we will increase rail capacity. We have opened the Boon Lay Extension and Circle Line Stage 3. To deal with the increased loads on our trains, operators have added over 1,000 train trips per week for the existing rail lines since 2008. These represent a capacity increase of almost 14.8%, measured in train-km, in the last two years. Where possible, they will introduce more train trips this year. I am therefore pleased that SMRT has informed LTA that from 22nd March, it will add another 150 train trips during the week to help ease crowding and waiting times for rail commuters. We are also addressing the infrastructural bottleneck in our existing North-South and East-West (NSEW) Lines by building an additional platform and track at Jurong East MRT station. We will complete this in 2011, and also take delivery of 22 additional trains to boost capacity by 15%. For commuters, this means less crowdedness and shorter headways during the peak hours. For instance, SMRT will be able to run trains at about 2.”
“This is why we will conduct the next HITS in four to five years' time to, assess the impact of the LTMP measures, and not wait till 2020. I have asked the Clerk to Parliament to circulate the summary of our progress to date. We will improve our public transport system through a three-pronged strategy. First, improve our bus services. Second, increase our rail capacity. Third, ensure that the focus is on the commuter. In fact, this commuter-centricity informs all of our public transport policies. Only if we have a people-centred public transport system will we be able to make it a choice mode. First, improve our bus services. To reduce crowding and waiting time, we have increased trunk and feeder bus frequencies. Today, at least eight in 10 basic bus services are required to come at 10 minutes interval during the peak periods instead of 15 minutes previously. SBST and SMRT have added 116 buses and more than 260 bus trips to 109 services during the morning and evening peak periods, shortening their headways by an average of 18% and increasing their capacity by 24%. To give commuters more choices, there are 75 premium bus services today, up from 42 in January 2008. To cut down travel time and improve reliability, we have given buses more priority on our roads – we have put in more bus lanes and impose mandatory right-of-way for buses exiting bus bays on some roads. The bus lanes have helped to increase bus speeds. On average, it is 7%, while the mandatory Give Way to Buses Scheme has reduced the time a bus takes to leave the bus bay by up to 73%. As Mr Ong Kian Min has pointed out, we need the cooperation of all road users, to give way to buses and keep out of bus lanes, to raise the quality of bus services.”
“A later survey may, for example, show the public transport modal share at say, 61% – which could be misread as a further two percentage-point drop from 2004, when it actually improved two percentage-points from 2008. Indeed, HITS 2008 has affirmed that the LTMP is on the right course. To answer Mr Seng Han Thong, the reason why public transport modal share has gone down even though public transport ridership has gone up is because car usage grew much faster than public transport ridership between 2004 and 2008, 31% to 16%. We need to arrest this decline in public transport modal share if we are to have a sustainable land transport system and a liveable city. The LTMP sets out to do this by increasing the capacity and attractiveness of our public transport system and managing our road usage closely. Several Members have pointed out that our trains and buses are getting crowded. I share this concern. It is one of our top priorities. Our high population growth in the last few years coupled with high fuel prices, have led to a significant growth in public transport ridership, in particular, the MRT system. If we are going to successfully transform our public transport system into a choice mode rather than one of last resort, we need to address aggressively not just this issue of crowdedness and comfort but also service quality issues as Ms Jessica Tan has brought up, such as waiting time, travel time and reliability. Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked how are we going to bridge the capacity gap between now and 2020. Our strategy has never been to back-load all our measures to 2020. The LTMP contains short-term measures to deal with the current situation, as well as longer term plans to meet ridership growth over the next 10 to 15 years.”
“Mr Chairman, Sir, I thank Members for their comments and many suggestions. I will address some of the key ones while Minister Lim Hwee Hua and Senior Parliamentary Secretary Teo Ser Luck will address some of the others. In 2008, we launched the Land Transport Masterplan (LTMP), a document outlining our key land transport strategies for the next 10 to 15 years. Members have asked about our transport system capacity – Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked whether our public transport system can handle the increasing commuter load while Mr Hri Kumar commented that we would eventually run out of space to build roads. These were exactly the issues that we sought to address under the Masterplan. Today, our transport system carries about 11 million journeys each day. By 2020, this will rise to 14.3 million. This means our transport system must carry 30% more and meet many different needs while ensuring our environment does not become dominated by congestion-filled roads. It was thus clear that we needed to make a decisive shift towards a higher public transport modal share, and reverse its downward trend in recent years, from 67% in 1997 to 63% in 2004. As it turned out, in 2008, this had gone further down to 59% based on the latest Household Interview Travel Survey (HITS 2008) which came out in October last year. Some had erroneously concluded that despite the enormous effort put in over the past two years, the LTMP measures have failed to reverse the trend. This is not so. HITS was launched in the same year – 2008 – as the LTMP, to give us a proper baseline to measure the effectiveness of the LTMP initiatives going forward. If we had not done so, we may end up drawing wrong conclusions.”
“Another noise abatement measure taken is to prohibit training flights and cargo flights between the hours of 10.00 pm to 7.00 am daily, the period when residents are resting and sleeping. In addition, CAAS disallows older and noisier jet aircraft that do not meet international standards on aircraft noise from operating into Singapore. Jet aircraft which operate to Seletar are generally newer-generation ones which are quieter and meet these standards. CAAS will continue to monitor the noise level closely and regularly review the aircraft noise abatement measures for improvement where appropriate, taking into account any new technological advancements that could enhance flight safety, and further minimise noise disturbance to residents. DEVELOPMENT OF PURPOSE-BUILT HUBS FOR SMES 33. Mr Teo Siong Seng asked the Minister for National Development if the Government will set aside affordable land and adequate funding to develop purpose-built hubs or wholesale and research and development centres to assist SMEs in the traditional trades of orchid and tropical ornamental fish farming and the import and sale of fruits, vegetables and fresh seafood so as to improve their productivity and competitiveness, in line with the Economic Strategies Committee's recommendations.”
“Members will recall that in July 2009, Er Lee from Ang Mo Kio GRC had asked a similar question and the House was informed about the measures taken to minimize the potential impact of aircraft noise in the planning and development of the Seletar Aerospace Park.? Consultancy studies and noise measurements carried out by CAAS and JTC showed that, with the measures, noise levels will still be well within internationally established development planning norms for residential areas near an airport. Let me now touch on the key measures that have been taken. CAAS seeks to minimise the need for aircraft to overfly residential areas in the design of flight paths around Singapore's airports. However, it is not possible for all aircraft flight paths to avoid overflying residential areas altogether. Flight paths of aircraft landing at or taking off from an airport have to be aligned with the runway. For safety reasons, there is also the need for these profiles to be clear of adjacent airports. As such, there is little leeway to alter or divert the flight paths of aircraft operating at Seletar Airport and it is unavoidable that some flights will overfly nearby residential areas. For Seletar Airport, CAAS will minimise aircraft landings from the south where most of the residential housing are located. This is to avoid aircraft overflying the residential areas and thereby reduce the noise disturbance. However, landing from the north is not always possible as this is dependent on the prevailing wind direction. To further reduce the noise, CAAS has also imposed altitude restrictions requiring aircraft to be no lower than 1,500 ft (about 450 metres) when they have to overfly the residential areas to the south and west of Seletar Airport.”
“The take-up rate is about a third. We have about 4,500 lots, so it is about 33%. It is a combination of both the factors that the Member mentioned just now. Some of them are not popular because the carparks are a bit far from the MRT stations or the bus interchanges. Some are actually within 400 metres. We have more than a dozen of Park and Ride sites that are actually within close proximity to the MRT stations. I think the latter is really a matter of raising the level of awareness. LTA is working on how best to publicise this and will be announcing the details soon. ILLEGAL ADVERTISEMENTS IN PUBLIC TRANSPORT AREAS (Deterrence measures) 9. Mr Lim Biow Chuan asked the Minister for Transport how much does LTA spend each year on non-stick paint to deter illegal advertisements on its lamp posts, railings and other public areas. 10. Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked the Minister for Transport (a) in 2009, how many people had been arrested and charged for sticking bills at bus stops, MRT stations and on lamp posts; (b) what were the penalties imposed; (c) what measures, if any, have been taken by the Ministry to curb this practice; and (d) whether the Ministry will enhance the penalties to deter future offenders.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the Park and Ride Scheme allows motorists to park at any of the designated Park and Ride sites distributed across the island, and continue the rest of their commute on public transport. The scheme makes it easier for these drivers to switch to public transport for part of their daily commute. For every motorist who participates in the scheme, there is potentially one less car on our roads and expressways. This helps to reduce traffic demand and keep traffic on the roads smooth flowing. There is thus, merit to encourage more car owners to take up the Park and Ride scheme. The scheme taps on existing car parks owned or operated by HDB, URA and SSC. The popular ones are usually situated at accessible locations or within the vicinity of MRT stations. However, these car parks also serve the parking needs of residents, businesses and visitors. LTA has to work closely with the car park owners to balance the various needs. LTA is working with HDB to explore increasing the number of Park and Ride lots at popular sites. Since November last year, one more Park and Ride site has already been added, bringing the number of Park and Ride sites to 37. LTA will also step up the publicity for the less popular Park and Ride carparks. We have found that some under-utilised car parks are quite close to MRT stations. LTA will step up the publicity for these car parks, to encourage more motorists to consider the Park and Ride Scheme at these locations. Lastly, Mr Speaker, as I have stated in the written reply to Dr Lim Wee Kiak's question last October, LTA is working with TransitLink to improve the scheme and will be announcing the details soon.”
“To improve the safety of cyclists on the roads, LTA had worked with the Safe Cycling Task Force (SCTF) to install signs alerting motorists of the presence of cyclists along frequently used cycling routes, such as those in the West Coast and the Thomson areas. The scheme has been extended to selected routes along Mandai Road and Tuas Road as well. So far, the signs have been found to be effective and LTA will be putting them up at more roads that cyclists frequent. The safety of all road users, whether they be drivers, cyclists or pedestrians, is a shared responsibility. All road users will have to play their part by following the traffic rules and regulations, and exercise mutual accommodation and due consideration for each other. TREND FOR SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES 26. Ms Ellen Lee asked the Minister for Health in the past three years (a) how many cases of sexually transmitted diseases other than HIV (such as genital warts, herpes, venereal disease, gonorrhea, etc) are seen in the clinics, public and private hospitals; (b) of these cases, how many are new cases and how many cases are Singaporeans; and (c) what trend is being detected by the Ministry from these statistics.”
“Our land is scarce and road space limited. We therefore have to make sure that our road space is optimally utilised. Our focus is therefore to make it safe for the various road users to share the space we have. Generally, the leftmost lane on which most cyclists travel is usually wider than the other lanes. This helps to accommodate the sharing of lane by cyclists and other motorists. Notwithstanding this, the LTA is also working with various community stakeholders and the Traffic Police to roll out a $43 million programme to design and construct dedicated cycle tracks in five selected HDB Towns to facilitate intra-town cycling as a mode of transport. Traffic calming measures are implemented along localised sections of roads where there is a need to moderate the speed of vehicles to suit the prevailing traffic conditions. These measures could include installing humps and strips or narrowing the lane with dividers and central islands. While there may be circumstances where cyclists would appreciate slower motor vehicle speeds, we also have to be mindful of the trade-offs when installing such measures. The installation of humps and strips, for example may affect the riding comfort of cyclists and their control of the bicycle. The narrowing of lanes may give rise to a situation where motorists have less room to overtake cyclists. Motorists may also get upset if they have to slow down too often. Nevertheless, if the Member has specific suggestions as where such traffic calming measures can be effective, LTA will be glad to look into it.”
“Ms Irene Ng Phek Hoong asked the Minister for Transport whether his Ministry will consider measures to improve safety on roads for cyclists, in particular (i) providing bicycle lanes on designated roads frequently used by cyclists; (ii) traffic calming; and (iii) appropriate road signage and markings to educate motorists to share road space with cyclists.”
“There are currently 50 bus stops fitted with electronic panels that provide commuters with real-time bus arrival information. Most of these bus stops are in the city centre, where commuter traffic is high. Others are spread out across Singapore, at areas with high bus ridership or which are major points of transfer, so that as many commuters as possible can make use of them. Besides these static electronic panels, commuters can also use their mobile phones to access the same real-time bus arrival information. For example, SBS Transit provides arrival information for all its bus services on a Short Message Service (SMS) platform. LTA also provides similar information, covering both SBST Transit and SMRT Buses’ services, using SMS at 166 bus stops along the Western Academic Belt. And if you have a mobile phone that is Internet-enabled, you can also access LTA’s bus arrival information on the PublicTransport@SG website on the go. All in all, such mobile services already cover about eight in 10 bus stops across Singapore. LTA is currently working to further improve the accuracy of the bus arrival information, with the intention to expand the coverage of these mobile services to all bus stops eventually. For most commuters, mobile technology provides a better service compared to the static electronic panels, as it allows commuters to check bus arrival times even before they reach the bus stop. With that information, a commuter can decide on the best time to start walking to the bus stop. Nonetheless, LTA will consider the provision of additional static electronic displays where it is cost-effective to do so, such as in some high-traffic areas. ROAD SAFETY MEASURES FOR CYCLISTS 24.”
“Dr Lam Pin Min asked the Minister for Health (a) what is the total number of registered Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners in Singapore; (b) what is the number and nature of complaints lodged against TCM practitioners over the past 3 years; and (c) whether TCM practitioners need to be covered by professional indemnity against costs and damages in clinical negligence cases. Mr Khaw Boon Wan: There are 2,421 registered Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners in Singapore. Over the past three years, the TCM Practitioners Board had received a total of 23 complaints against registered TCM practitioners: 10 in 2007, seven in 2008 and six in 2009. The complaints were mainly related to allegations of professional negligence, misconduct and the misuse of Western medicine. The TCM Practitioners Board encourages all registered TCM practitioners to be covered by professional indemnity insurance on a voluntary basis. PERMANENT RESIDENTS IN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS 18. Mr Baey Yam Keng asked the Minister for Education at the primary school level (a) what is the number of permanent residents studying in international schools in Singapore in each of the years from 2006-2009; (b) how do these numbers compare with the number of PRs in our national schools; and (c) whether the proportion of PRs in our national schools is reflective of the proportion of PRs in the population.”
“The Public Transport Council (PTC) has put in place a penalty framework since October 2007 to enforce its set of Quality of Service (QoS) standards for basic bus services. It sends a strong and clear signal that the operators should consistently strive for improvements and maintain a high level of service. Otherwise, they will face higher costs in terms of financial penalties, and their reputation will be affected. This signaling and reputation effect is an important aspect of the penalty framework, and it goes beyond the direct cost of financial penalties. As reported by the PTC, the operators’ performance have been improving since the penalty framework was implemented. In the 6-month review period from December 2007 to May 2008, a total of 58 instances of non-compliance by both operators were recorded. The number of non-compliances of both operators fell to 46 instances for the subsequent review period from June 2008 to November 2008. In the latest review, for the period from December 2008 to May 2009, there were only a total of seven instances of non-compliance, and SBS Transit and SMRT Buses were fined $500 and $200 respectively. Notwithstanding that the penalties imposed have been declining with improving performance, the operators have not relented on efforts in renewing and expanding their bus fleets, as well as recruiting and training more bus drivers to meet the QoS standards, and commuters’ demand for better services. This shows that the current penalty framework is effective in encouraging the operators to perform. The PTC will review the penalty framework as and when necessary to ensure that it remains effective. TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE (TCM) PRACTITIONERS (Number of those registered) 17.”
“In response to complaints from some residents at Castle Green Condominium, SMRT carried out two rail grinding maintenance operations along the section of track in the last two months. LTA has also worked with SMRT to put in place a monitoring system to measure the noise generated by MRT trains at selected locations close to major residential estates every three months. With this, SMRT is able to identify locations where the noise levels are close to the guidelines, and prioritise preventive maintenance work at these locations to ensure that the guidelines are not breached. Whilst LTA and the operators will continue to try their best to minimise noise generated by MRT trains as much as possible, some degree of noise is unavoidable. We need to balance the concerns over noise with the need to improve train services for commuters, and we ask the public for their understanding of this. DESIGNATED PARKING LOTS FOR THOSE WITH PRAMS AND WHEELCHAIRS 38. Ms Ellen Lee asked the Minister for National Development whether his Ministry will consider setting aside designated parking lots at strategic locations in all HDB/URA car parks for parents with young children and prams as well as caregivers with passengers in wheelchairs.”
“Singapore is highly urbanised and densely built-up, and the MRT system was designed to service residents in high-density corridors. Therefore, it is inevitable that some residential developments will have to be located quite close to the MRT tracks. In the last few years, as SMRT increased service frequencies to address crowding in the trains and reduce waiting time for commuters, this has naturally increased the number of times in a day that residents living close to the tracks will hear the noise from passing trains. LTA takes guidance from NEA guidelines which state that railway sound levels should not be more than 67 decibels sustained over a one-hour period. SMRT has, in the last few months, been taking noise measurements at the façade of Castle Green Condominium facing the tracks. The readings have been consistently within NEA guidelines, and are similar to other sections of MRT track. Nevertheless, I would like to assure Members that the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and SMRT are actively trying their best to minimise the noise from MRT trains and tracks. For example, the MRT trains are manufactured in compliance with specified noise emission limits, and are fitted with special noise damped wheels to reduce noise levels. The use of stone ballast and sleepers on the MRT viaducts also help to insulate noise further by helping to absorb the vibrations which may propagate through the track structure. SMRT also has a comprehensive maintenance programme to regularly check and maintain the trains and tracks, which will help to ensure that noise levels do not worsen through wear and tear of the equipment. For instance, train wheels are reprofiled and rails are ground frequently to remove defects that create noise and also to maintain safe train operation.”
“For motorised bicycles to be exempted from registration and, hence, third party insurance requirements, LTA requires them to have similar construction and performance characteristics as conventional pedal bicycles. They are restricted to 200 watts or less, are powered by an electric source, and their electric motor must cut off when the bicycle reaches a speed of 25km/h or when the rider stops pedalling. This is comparable to the average speed of a moderately fit adult pedalling a conventional bicycle on level ground. Hence, like conventional bicycles, there is no need for them to be covered by third party insurance. According to the Police, there were no fatal or injury accidents involving motorised bicycles between June 2008 and June 2009. Column No : 1789 IMPACT OF EXTENDED MATERNITY LEAVE BENEFITS 44. Assoc. Prof. Paulin Tay Straughan asked the Minister for Manpower (a) whether he has received feedback from employers, especially SMEs, on how they have managed to provide for the 16-week maternity benefits; (b) what proportion of employers engage temporary staff to augment staff strength when employees are on maternity leave; (c) where no temporary staff are engaged, how do employers distribute the workflow and compensate staff who have to cover for colleagues on maternity leave; and (d) what concerns have been raised by employers or employees about the extended maternity benefits.”
“A cashless society is not a costless one. While the Government can help to facilitate the transition to a cashless society, the decision to waive or charge a fee for cashless alternatives is a commercial one best left to individual commercial operators such as credit cards companies, or in this case, the CEPAS card issuers to determine. As CEPAS allows multiple card issuers to enter the market, they will have to decide how best to balance between the competitiveness of their value proposition to their customers and their own commercial viability. In the case of EZ-Link, they have made the business decision that for the automatic GIRO top-up facility which they offer as a value-added service, a charge would be levied to cover the operating costs. Nonetheless, for commuters who do not wish to pay for the charges, the Public Transport Council (PTC) has ensured that "free" top-up channels will continue to be available within the transit environment. Column No : 1783 SHORT-TERM WORK PASSES IN CREATIVE INDUSTRIES 37. Mr Calvin Cheng asked the Minister for Manpower given that foreign professionals in the creative and entertainment industries who want to work in Singapore on a freelance or short-term basis are only subject to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority’s approval for short-term Social Visit Passes, whether the Ministry has any plans to issue short-term work passes, to be assessed on work-related criteria, to these professionals in line with other jurisdictions such as Hong Kong and Japan.”
“Better planning of events, as well as the provision of more resources for crowd and traffic control can be expected of organisers of future promotional events. The LTA and Police will also work with the organisers of such events to see how best we can minimise a recurrence of such traffic incidents. Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked how would the Public Transport Council (PTC) assess the bus services that were affected by the promotion. The PTC is mindful that there will be circumstances beyond the operators’ control, such as traffic congestion due to road accidents or major events, that will affect their performance. In its assessment, the PTC will carefully consider the reasons why the bus operator was unable to comply with the Quality of Service standards set before deciding on the need to impose a penalty. I am sure that the PTC will be fair to the bus operators. Column No : 1766 SINGAPORE INSTITUTE OF APPLIED TECHNOLOGY (Update) 23. Mrs Josephine Teo asked the Minister for Education if he will provide an update on the Singapore Institute of Applied Technology, in particular (i) the types and nature of partnership arrangements with foreign universities; (ii) the manner in which polytechnics are involved in programme delivery; and (iii) how a quality education environment will be provided for the students.”
“Shell held their fuel promotion on Saturday 24th October over eight hours, from 10am to 6pm. Such commercial promotion events on private premises do not need specific approvals from the Government. However, Shell informed both the Police and LTA of its intention to hold this particular promotion beforehand. The Police and LTA advised Shell to put in place measures to manage the anticipated traffic congestion, such as engaging Auxiliary Police Officers to control traffic. Shell was to ensure that the vehicle queue is kept within one lane and not obstruct accesses to buildings and commuter facilities, which includes bus stops. Several stations where the queues would pose serious safety risks were excluded from the promotion. Shell took in these requests, and also increased the number of pump attendants and cashiers to speed up the service on the day of the promotion. However, the promotion proved to be more popular than Shell had anticipated. The LTA and Police observed and received reports of varying degrees of congestion on the roads leading into Shell stations. While most of these roads generally remained passable for traffic, there were a number of instances where the traffic congestion was not acceptable. LTA took steps to manage the congestion by adjusting traffic light timings and informing motorists of the congested roads through electronic message signs and radio broadcast announcements. LTA also instructed Shell to deploy additional resources to manage the traffic condition on the ground, while the Traffic Police instructed Shell to end the promotion early at one of the stations. This unfortunate incident has heightened the awareness of commercial entities on the need to be more socially responsible when planning their commercial events in future.”
“POLICY ON JOB ADVERTISEMENTS (Stated preference for foreigners) 9. Ms Sylvia Lim asked the Minister for Manpower what is the Ministry's policy on job advertisements which expressly indicate a preference for foreigners to fill posts.”
“Between 1st October 2008 and 30th September 2009, there were 25 track intrusions by passengers on our MRT system. Of these, 15 cases involved passengers retrieving dropped items, or taking shortcuts across the middle track at interchange stations. The remaining 10 cases involved passengers accidentally falling onto the tracks. SMRT already has put in place a comprehensive set of measures to ensure passenger safety. Recorded voice messages are broadcast regularly at station platforms reminding passengers not to stand beyond the yellow line or rush to catch a departing train. During peak hours, SMRT officers are deployed to patrol the station platforms and to advise passengers to stand behind the yellow line while waiting for their trains to arrive. The number of officers deployed for such patrols depends on station patronage, with more deployed at the busier stations. Moreover, train drivers are trained to keep a lookout for dangerous situations when their trains enter the station and will sound the horn or apply the emergency brakes whenever necessary. To further enhance commuter safety, the Land Transport Authority will be completing the installation of half height platform screen doors at all the 36 elevated MRT stations along the North-South and East-West Lines by 2012. Work on the three pilot stations, namely Pasir Ris, Yishun and Jurong East MRT stations, are scheduled for completion by the end of this year. Safety is a shared responsibility, and passengers are urged to take care of their personal safety by observing safety instructions, standing behind the yellow line, and seeking assistance from the MRT station officers if they feel unwell or if they need to retrieve any item that has fallen onto the tracks.”
“Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked the Minister for Transport (a) how many incidents were there of passengers falling onto MRT tracks, whether accidentally or intentionally, in the past 12 months; and (b) whether his Ministry will require the MRT operators to deploy more officers at open platform MRT stations to guide commuters and ensure their safety during peak operating hours.”
“Circle Line Stages 1 and 2, from Dhoby Ghaut to Bartley stations, will commence operations in the first half of 2010. The remaining section of the Circle Line, Stages 4 and 5 from Marymount to Harbourfront stations, will open in 2011. This section includes the Farrer and Buona Vista stations. The Circle Line Extension, which comprises Bayfront and Marina Bay stations, will be opened in 2012. The above-ground works for Circle Line Stages 1 and 2 will be completed by end-2009. This means that all entrances will be completed and the roads re-aligned and restored back to their original state. I know that motorists and other members of the local community have patiently endured the road diversions and inconvenience created by the construction works, especially around the Paya Lebar area. They will not have to wait much longer. For Circle Line Stages 4 and 5, Marymount to Harbourfront stations, their above-ground works will be completed by end-2010. Again, I understand that the construction has caused some inconvenience, particularly along Farrer Road. Let me assure the Member that LTA will re-align and restore Farrer Road to how it was, by the end of next year. In the meantime, we appreciate the support and understanding of all the affected parties. When the full Circle Line is completed, the public will enjoy the benefits of the added convenience and connectivity of the new MRT line. PASSENGERS FALLING ONTO MRT TRACKS (More preventive measures) 8.”
“Mr Lim Biow Chuan asked the Minister for National Development if he will clarify the reason why HDB allows the sale of recess area and common corridor space to some flat owners and not to others living in the same block of flats but who applied to purchase the areas later.”
“The Traffic Police has been taking enforcement action against cyclists who pose a danger to pedestrians. Summonses have been issued to those who commit offences under the Road Traffic Act, or breach any rule under the Road Traffic (Bicycles) Rules. Action has been taken against errant cyclists violating cycling rules, most of whom were taken to task for failing to ride in an orderly manner, and riding on the footways of roads. The penalties imposed depend on the circumstances of each case. For instance, under Section 279 of the Penal Code, a cyclist who rides in a rash or negligent manner that could cause hurt to, or endanger the life of, any other person, may be imprisoned for up to one year, fined up to $5,000, or both. However, these situations are rare. In circumstances where cycling rules are breached, a composition fine of $20 would be meted out against the errant cyclist. Currently, LTA exempts low-powered models of motorised bicycles from registration as they have similar construction and performance characteristics as conventional pedal bicycles. They are restricted to 200 watts or less, are powered by an electric source, and their electric motor must cut off when the bicycle reaches a speed of 25km/h or when the rider stops pedalling. This is comparable to the average speed of a moderately fit adult pedalling a conventional bicycle on level ground. Hence, like conventional bicycles, there is no need for them to be registered for use on public roads. SALES OF RECESS AND COMMON AREAS IN HDB BLOCKS 38.”
“Currently, recycling companies are located in various industrial estates such as Tuas, Jurong and Kranji. Apart from land, NEA also provides funding to incentivise and develop the waste management and recycling industry in Singapore. NEA has set up various funding schemes to support the development of innovative and cost-effective waste management and recycling technologies as well as facilitate the deployment of pilot projects. These schemes include the Environment Technology Research Programme, the Innovation for Environment Sustainability Fund and the 3R Fund. INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIONS (More stringent regulations) 32. Mr Baey Yam Keng asked the Minister for Trade and Industry for major international competitions like the Miss World beauty pageant where contestants represent their respective countries, whether greater supervision and regulation of the local organisers responsible for selecting the winner-representative for Singapore is necessary in order to protect the brand name of our country.”
“While TransitLink already sets up an additional counter at these locations when the sets go on sale, LTA will work with TransitLink to explore ways, such as through electronic on-line channels, to make it more convenient for users to obtain their Park and Ride sets. LTA will also look at giving regular users greater priority to buy Park and Ride sets. Mr Speaker Sir, these measures will help to make the Park and Ride Scheme more convenient for motorists. LTA is still working on the details of these proposals and will announce them in early 2010. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES (Industrial zones and support) 31. Mr Teo Siong Seng asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources (a) whether the Government has set aside sufficient industrial zones specifically for the recycling industry to support our sustainable development initiatives; and (b) whether his Ministry will provide affordable land and other incentives to encourage local enterprises to upgrade their capability and play a greater role in these industrial zones. Assoc. Prof. Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: The Government set aside land specifically for the recycling industry since 1995 when the Sarimbun Recycling Park (SRP) was set up in the closed Lim Chu Kang Dumping Ground. The SRP is now fully leased out to 13 companies recycling waste items such as wood waste, horticultural waste, construction waste, demolition waste and used tyres. SRP land were initially allocated to recycling companies at rental rate determined by the Chief Valuer. Since November 2008, the land allocation procedure for SRP was changed to a tender system and the rental rate is determined via open market tender. In addition to SRP, companies can apply to JTC for industrial land to set up recycling facilities.”
“The use of the Park and Ride Scheme is something that we encourage for drivers to make use of public transport in their daily commute. The scheme is currently administered by TransitLink. LTA has worked with TransitLink to review the scheme and has taken note of the suggestions that have been put forth on how the scheme can be improved. There are at present 36 Park and Ride car parks across the island. The take-up rate at each of these car parks is not the same. Some are more popular with motorists and are fully utilised, while others are less than half-filled. First, for the popular Park and Ride car parks, LTA is working with HDB to try to increase the number of Park and Ride lots, or in some cases, identify new Park and Ride car parks in the vicinity. However, we will have to be mindful of the car parking needs of residents and visitors as well, and balance their interests against the needs of Park and Ride users. Second, LTA will step up the publicity for the less popular Park and Ride car parks. We have found that some under-utilised car parks are quite close to MRT stations. LTA will step up the publicity for these car parks, to encourage more motorists to consider the Park and Ride Scheme at these locations. Third, LTA will work with TransitLink to make it more convenient for Park and Ride users to obtain their monthly Park and Ride sets. Today, users can purchase their Park and Ride sets at any TransitLink ticket office. However, queues do form outside some of the more popular ones, such as those at Ang Mo Kio, Raffles Place, Clementi, Tampines MRT stations and Boon Lay Bus Interchange.”
“To be eligible for Preferential Additional Registration Fee (PARF) and Certificate of Entitlement (COE) rebates, the owner of a vehicle has to de-register his or her vehicle and dispose of it through scrap or permanent export. LTA will grant the PARF and COE rebates to the owner upon submission of satisfactory disposal documents for the vehicle, to ensure that the vehicle is permanently taken off Singapore roads. LTA will similarly grant the PARF and COE rebates to the owner of vehicles lost through a criminal breach of trust (CBT). The law was changed to allow this in 2004 and, hence, only applies to vehicles that have been lost on or after 1 January 2005, and reported to the Police. To claim for the PARF and COE rebates of such vehicles, owners have to wait for three years from the date when the loss was first reported to the Police. This is to prevent abuse or fraudulent requests. PARK AND RIDE SCHEME (Plans to attract more motorists) 27. Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked the Minister for Transport (a) if he will provide an update on the Park and Ride Scheme; and (b) what are the Ministry's plans, if any, to improve the Scheme to attract more motorists.”
“Accident investigation comes under the purview of the Traffic Police (TP). TP has advised that they do not specifically track the number of accidents caused by speeding where there are engine modifications. Notwithstanding this, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) takes a serious view of illegal modification of vehicles as it could adversely affect the vehicle’s safety and exhaust emission characteristics. LTA requires all vehicles to be sent for periodic inspections to ensure that they are roadworthy, and that they have not been illegally modified. Owners of vehicles that fail the inspection would be required to rectify the fault. LTA also conducts regular enforcement checks on the roads and carries out blitzes island-wide to detect such modified vehicles. Over the last two years, no workshops have been prosecuted for being involved in illegal engine modifications. APPENDICES”
“Ultimately, everyone has a responsibility to keep our roads safe and I believe that an attitude of mutual accommodation will improve safety. With regard to the use of motorised bicycles on the road, only low-powered models of motorised bicycles not more than 200 watts, which are approved by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and affixed with an LTA seal, are allowed on public roads. This is for the safety of motorised bicycle riders and other road users. To further improve safety, TP requires all riders of motorised bicycles to be at least 16 years old and to wear a bicycle helmet. It is an offence under the Road Traffic Act for any person to ride motorised bicycles that are not approved by LTA. They can be fined up to $1,000 or jailed up to three months for the first offence, and fined up to $2,000 or jailed of up to six months for subsequent offences. Column No : 1403 HUMAN ORGAN TRANSPLANT ACT (Progress of implementation) 28. Mr Christopher de Souza asked the Minister for Health (a) what is the progress of implementation of new regulations under the amended HOTA; (b) whether the regulations will provide caps on the reimbursement amount for an organ such that the donation is done for altruistic reasons; (c) how will the regulations ensure that the reimbursement is not an inducement to donate organs; and (d) if the regulations will state the formula by which the quantum of reimbursement is calculated.”
“In 2008, there were 604 accidents involving cyclists, in which 22 cyclists and pillion riders were killed, and 585 injured. Compared to 2007, the number of fatalities has remained the same at 22 while the number injured has increased from 519. To reduce the number of accidents, the Traffic Police (TP) has stepped up public education efforts. For example, in schools and at community-level events, customised talks have been given to provide tips on safe cycling, a pre-riding checklist and case studies of traffic accidents involving cyclists to illustrate the vulnerability of a cyclist on the road. Motorists are also advised to watch out for cyclists on the road and to drive carefully around them. Road safety exhibitions providing safety tips for cyclists have also been held at HDB neighbourhoods, schools and workplaces such as shipyards. TP has been working with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) to more effectively disseminate the road safety messages to foreign workers. New posters on enhancing pedestrian and cyclist safety, and a video on safe cycling have been produced for distribution and screening at foreign-worker dormitories. I would like to highlight that both motorists and cyclists are responsible for safety on the roads. Motorists should understand that cyclists have an equal right to be on the roads, just like cars. Cyclists however are more vulnerable and motorists should exercise extra care when they are around, and give way where possible. But this does not mean that cyclists should ride presuming that motorists must give way to them as they are also responsible for their own safety. Cyclists should recognise their own vulnerability, and take extra care to be alert, obey traffic rules and give way where possible.”
“NHB has been receiving this sponsorship via exemption from the Smoking (CAST) Act. The exemption clause in the Act allows discretionary exemptions for tobacco companies to be acknowledged as sponsors for events. NHB has had to apply for such exemptions with the Health Sciences Authority (HSA), which is the agency enforcing the Smoking (CAST) Act. To ensure sponsorship acknowledgements by tobacco companies do not unduly promote smoking or tobacco, every application for exemption is assessed on its own merit, based on stringent advertising restrictions on elements such as event coverage and specifications of publicity materials used. For its part, NHB ensures that promotional materials targeted at students and children do not carry the logo of the company. To meet the World Health Organization's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) which Singapore ratified in 2004, the Health Promotion Board (HPB) is removing this exemption clause within the Draft Smoking (CAST) Amendment Bill 2009. This will come into effect in end 2010. NHB will abide by the guidelines that arise from this exercise. Column No : 1251 FOREIGN WORKERS (Health screening parameters) 24. Dr Lam Pin Min asked the Minister for Health (a) what is the current health screening parameters for foreign workers coming to work in Singapore; and (b) whether there is a need for review to make them more stringent in view of the many reports of imported diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria, Chikungunya and other infectious diseases.”
“If any service lapse is identified, operators are asked to account for and, more importantly, take immediate action to rectify them, even before the PTC announces the results of its six-monthly review of the operators' performance against the QoS standards in April and October every year. Dr Lim also asked how many instances of non-compliance against the QoS standards there have been. In the most recent six-monthly review, for the six months from 1st June to 30th November 2008, the operators largely met the standards except for 46 instances of non-compliance. These were on the standards of adherence to scheduled headways and maximum passenger loading, and resulted in the PTC penalising SBS Transit and SMRT Buses $4,500 and $100 respectively. This was an improvement over the previous six-monthly review, where there were 58 instances of non-compliance and they were fined $9,300 and $1,000 respectively. The review for the period of December 2008 to May 2009 will be released in October this year. Column No : 1249 CIGARETTE COMPANIES (Advertising for national events) 23. Mr Seah Kian Peng asked the Acting Minister for Information, Communications and the Arts what is the Ministry’s policy with regard to advertising by cigarette companies for national events such as the Singapore HeritageFest 2009. RAdm [NS] Lui Tuck Yew: Community and private sector support is an important source of funding for the promotion and development of arts and cultural activities. Such sponsorships have enabled the National Heritage Board (NHB) to enrich its programming and organise various outreach initiatives and community-bonding events such as the Singapore HeritageFest 2009. Among the sponsors of the HeritageFest is a tobacco company.”
“The Public Transport Council (PTC) has tightened the Quality of Service (QoS) standards for basic bus services, effective from 1st August 2009. Eighty percent of bus services will now have to leave the bus interchanges and terminals every 10 minutes or less during weekday peak periods, from the previous 15 minutes. For feeder services, 90% of feeder services now have to do so at 10 minutes or less, up from the previous 85%. With buses leaving the bus interchanges and terminals at more frequent intervals, commuters can generally expect shorter waiting times. The PTC monitors and assesses the bus operators' compliance with all QoS standards. The actual performance of bus services are continuously tracked by the bus operators' computerised fleet operation and management systems. Based on these databases, performance reports of all bus services are submitted to the PTC every month, and the PTC will assess the operators’ compliance with QoS standards. To ensure that these performance reports are accurate and complete, the PTC regularly audits the operators' reporting processes and systems. The last check was conducted in August 2008 and the PTC was satisfied that all was in order. The PTC is currently conducting another round of checks on the operators' systems. But that is not all. The PTC conducts an additional layer of checks to ascertain that the performance data actually match commuters' experience on the ground. The PTC conducts multiple on-site audits or spot checks every month.”
“As recently as May this year, the Public Transport Council launched a public education programme, in partnership with the operators, to promote gracious behaviour on public transport. There are also regular audio broadcasts in MRT stations reminding passengers not to eat or drink. Through such efforts, we hope to raise awareness of the need to be considerate to other passengers. This will help provide a more pleasant travelling experience for all. Column No : 1239 PUBLIC FUNDS ACCOUNTABILITY 16. Mdm Ho Geok Choo asked the Minister for Finance in light of the latest Auditor-General’s Report on lapses in the Civil Service, how can prudence and accountability in the use of public money be further nurtured.”
“" Mdm Phua and Dr Lim asked whether exceptions can be considered, for instance, allowing the elderly to eat sweets to overcome motion sickness, to manage diabetes or for other reasons. My Ministry, and I am sure the operators as well, recognise that there could indeed be extenuating circumstances. However, these are exceptional situations rather than the norm. Practically, it would be impossible to comprehensively define such circumstances upfront – they are, by definition, exceptional and should be dealt with on a case-by-case basis. As I mentioned earlier, our principal aim is to ensure cleanliness and hygiene on the trains and stations for the benefit of all passengers. Thus, passengers should finish eating or drinking before entering the MRT station. If they really need to eat or drink for medical or other special reasons, they should approach the MRT station staff. The MRT station staff are trained to exercise flexibility and judgment. Sometimes, this may mean granting an exception; other times it may mean saying, no. If indeed there are genuine cases of service lapses, passengers can report them to the operators. Dr Lim asked if there is a public education campaign to raise awareness of this Regulation against eating or drinking in stations and trains. Over the years, the rail operators have indeed undertaken several public education programmes to encourage gracious behaviour, including not eating or drinking in stations and trains. For example, SMRT and SBST engage the public through their on-going Learning Journey programmes with primary and secondary schools, the annual SMRT Courtesy and Safety Programme and SBST’s quarterly Community Engagement Programme.”
“Under the Rapid Transit Systems (RTS) Regulations, passengers who consume or attempt to consume any food, drinks, chewing or bubble gum in the MRT stations and trains are liable to a fine of up to $500. Offences may be compounded by the LTA to lesser amounts such as $30. This Regulation has been in place since the start of MRT services in 1987, to ensure cleanliness and hygiene in the stations and trains. Most passengers comply with the Regulation of not eating and drinking in stations and trains. However, there is a small but growing group of passengers who do not. The number of Notices of Offences issued in 2006 was 301. This had increased to 581 in 2007 and 646 in 2008. In the first six months of 2009, there were 281 offences. To put these numbers in perspective, there are nearly 1.5 million trips a day made on our train system. The percentage of offenders is low and most Singaporeans are considerate passengers who do not inconvenience their fellow commuters. However, the operators decided to step up enforcement recently after a surge in public complaints against eating and drinking in trains. Let me give just one example. On 9th July 2009, Mr Loke Parc Sen wrote to the Straits Times Interactive, expressing concern that when a commuter was caught eating on the train, he: "dared the SMRT officer by saying: 'Fine me; I don't care.' Seeing that these are the kind of characters they are dealing with, SMRT should show no mercy. Letting them off with a warning or a meagre fine of $30 is a slap on the wrist. I suggest they be made to feel the full consequence of their choice – a $500 fine.”
“The LTA has also worked with the operators to standardise the signs to encourage commuters to give up their seats. The new signs state 'reserved seating' and there is also an additional sign on the seat itself in case people miss the first sign. Er Lee also asked if the operators will deploy inspectors to check on commuters who do not give up their seats. Yes, the operators have been deploying service ambassadors and customer service officers to patrol the trains, to ask passengers sitting in 'reserved seats' to give them up to those who need it more. Ticket inspectors are doing the same on the buses. However, we must strike a balance between enforcement and public education. Public education is our primary approach as that is how best we can ensure that graciousness becomes an ingrained part of our behaviour when using our public transport system, with enforcement as a last resort to remind the recalcitrant few. A recent survey carried out by the LTA indicate that a majority of commuters find the posters, videos, audio clips and re-designed markings to be effective in encouraging gracious behaviour. If we continue to work together and be more mindful of the needs of others every day, our society will become more gracious, and a journey on our public transport system happier. CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME 45. Dr Lam Pin Min asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on the latest data analysis of the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP) and whether this programme will be extended to more chronic diseases.”
“Er Lee Bee Wah asked if we will encourage the public to exercise courtesy when travelling on public transport. We are indeed doing so. Since 23th May 2009, the Public Transport Council (PTC), in partnership with the Land Transport Authority (LTA), SBS Transit (SBST), SMRT and the Singapore Kindness Movement (SKM), have been carrying out a public education programme entitled "A Happy Journey Starts Like That!" This programme encourages commuters to be gracious to one another. It focuses on specific behaviour such as giving way to others who want to alight from a train, giving up reserved seats on board buses and trains to those who need it more and moving to the middle of train cabins or the rear of buses to give more room to other passengers. To better reach out to the public, the PTC enlisted the help of local television characters Phua Chu Kang and family, to star in publicity materials such as posters, videos and audio recordings. For example, in the MRT stations, you can often hear Phua Chu Kang’s voice over the speakers, reminding passengers to behave graciously. In addition, the operators’ service ambassadors in the MRT stations have also helped to remind and encourage commuters to act graciously, especially during the morning and evening rush hours. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is also improving the signs that remind commuters of gracious behaviour. For example, the LTA is now testing out new queue markings in front of the train doors in MRT stations. You may have seen the new green arrows, which are visually more striking than the old yellow markings. A green arrow also suggests that alighting passengers have a right of way, just like in traffic lights. If found to be effective, the LTA will implement the markings in all MRT stations.”
“Thus, in the longer term, ERP ensures that our roads remain smooth flowing so that people can get to their destinations quickly and reliably, be it making deliveries, getting to the workplace, running errands after work, or returning home. This helps us achieve our overall aim of ensuring that Singaporeans will continue to enjoy a high quality living environment. MOTORCYCLISTS ON PEDESTRIAN WALKWAYS AND AT VOID DECKS 35. Ms Ellen Lee asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs (a) what enforcement actions have been taken by the police against errant motorcyclists who ride onto pedestrian walkways and void decks in HDB estates; and (b) whether there has been any action taken against SingPost and food delivery motorcyclists who ride on pedestrian walkways and void decks.”
“The Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) system is a congestion management tool which the LTA uses to help ensure that traffic conditions on the roads are smooth flowing and that road space is optimally utilised. Let me assure Members that the LTA conducts extensive reviews before making any changes to the ERP system such as extending operation hours, putting up new gantries, or reviewing ERP rates. LTA regularly reviews its implementation to make sure that the system remains responsive to changes in traffic conditions. A busy area like the CBD, including Chinatown, is no exception. Prior to the extension of the CBD’s evening ERP operating hours from 7 pm to 8 pm in July 2008, the LTA had found that traffic within the CBD had been building up and travel speeds had deteriorated below the minimum threshold speed. With the enhanced ERP measures, the LTA found a marked improvement in travelling speeds within the CBD, especially in the Shenton Way-Chinatown cordon. The ERP rates there have since September 2008, been reduced to reflect the sustained improvement in traffic conditions during the evening peak hours. Many people often conclude that ERP changes can only be bad for businesses, leisure activities or families residing within the ERP zone, either because they incur higher travel costs from ERP charges or their usual schedules are affected. However, they forget to consider the flip side of not making ERP changes, the consequences of which are the hidden costs of being stuck in gridlock. Whilst they may not pay for the congestion in ERP charges, they certainly do so in the form of fuel wasted and precious time lost.”
“Even when agencies assess that certain functions can be more cost-effectively done by external parties, they would need to ensure that the vendors so selected are able to deliver quality services. In this context, my Ministry agrees that vendors whose bids are marginally below market norms should not be rejected outright; instead Ministries should evaluate vendors holistically, taking into account other factors including their track records and quality requirements. That said, the Government strives to set a good example on responsible best sourcing or outsourcing. To this end, MOF has worked with MOM and union representatives in 2008 to issue the Tripartite Advisory on Responsible Outsourcing Activities to guide employers on good practices in this area. We will continue to monitor developments in the industry to incorporate best practices into our Best Sourcing initiative. Er Lee Bee Wah: I think my question of whether Government agencies are penalised when a tender is not awarded to the lowest bidder, is not answered.”
“The Second Minister for Finance (Mrs Lim Hwee Hua) (for the Minister for Finance): Sir, the Government procurement regime is premised on the principles of open and fair competition, transparency and Value-for-Money (VFM). When Government agencies call for tender to procure goods and services, they would stipulate their evaluation criteria upfront. These would include not only price alone, but also other criteria that would enable the agencies to assess the vendors’ ability to deliver, such as their track records for comparable contracts and their financial health, as well as criteria relating to the quality of goods and services required. As regards the reasons why some winning bidders are unable to fulfil their contracts on time, there are many. However, there is no empirical evidence linking delays to vendors who had submitted the lowest bids. In any case, Government agencies would take any tardiness into account when assessing the track records of bidders. I would therefore like to assure the House that Government agencies do not award tenders based on price considerations alone. In fact, Sir, about one in three Government tenders were not awarded to the lowest bidders. A similar approach is taken in the Best Sourcing Initiative which was launched in 2004. Under this initiative, Government agencies would identify non-strategic functions and market-test them to see if they could be performed by external parties in a more cost-effective manner. Since 2004, 292 functions have been outsourced after market-testing, with contracts amounting to around $1.9 billion. Let me assure the House that Government agencies do not “cheap-source”.”
“With regard to the first question on whether or not it is possible to do checks in the early hours of the morning, it is not possible to do patrols over the whole of Singapore. But if there are certain problem areas and residents are complaining, please let us know and then we can look into them. As for the penalties, we think they are still effective today. But if we get more feedback that they are ineffective, we can review them. Er Lee Bee Wah (Ang Mo Kio): I would like the Minister to know that actually we have given quite a lot of feedback to LTA. Very often, especially when I visit Orchid Condominium, at Yishun Avenue 1, without fail, at every visit, I get complaints about noise generated by the motorcyclists. This is feedback to the Minister. AWARDING OF CONTRACTS TO LOWEST BIDDER 6. Er Lee Bee Wah asked the Minister for Finance (a) how Government departments ensure that there will be quality in delivery before awarding a contract to the lowest bidder; (b) whether the evaluation by the Tenders Committee includes an evaluation of the ability of the contractor/vendor to perform; (c) over the last three years, how many Government projects were delayed as a result of winning bidders’ inability to perform after submitting their lowest bids; and (d) whether Government agencies are penalised when a tender is not awarded to the lowest bidder. 7. Ms Irene Ng Phek Hoong asked the Minister for Finance (a) whether the Government supports the practice of best sourcing as opposed to cheap sourcing in its public tenders; and (b) whether the latest Auditor-General's Report which states that the Ministry of Education could have saved on its school cleaning contracts if it had considered contractors who were priced below the market norm, is sending the wrong signal.”
“The Land Transport Authority (LTA) requires all vehicles, including motorcycles, to be sent for periodic inspections at authorised inspection centres to ensure that they are roadworthy, and that there have not been any illegal modifications made. Motorcycles that fail the inspection would be required to make good the fault. Besides the mandated inspection regime for motorcycles to deter and detect illegal modifications, LTA also conducts regular checks on the road as well as carry out blitzes island-wide to enforce such offences. Those found to have modified their exhaust systems without approval will face fines of up to $500, and be charged in court if they are repeat offenders. In addition, LTA acts on the complaints it receives against motorcycles with excessive noise emission due to modified or defective exhaust systems by notifying the owners to send their motorcycles for inspections. Over the last two years, there have been 670 cases of motorcycles being caught for illegal modification of the exhaust system.”
“In this regard, parties who are unhappy with their mediated settlements are strongly encouraged to meet for a further mediation session at the CMC to work through their differences, before considering further courses of action. *As the nature of mediation is voluntary (except for those cases which are compulsorily referred by a Magistrate under Section 15 of the CMC Act), the CMC can only facilitate a mediation session upon obtaining the consent from all parties to the dispute. The respondent(s) may turn down/fail to respond to the CMC’s invitation to attend a mediation session for various personal reasons. In such cases (and after active persuasion where appropriate), the CMC would respect the parties’ wishes and would not arrange for a mediation session. JOBS IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR 11. Ms Sylvia Lim asked the Minister for Manpower what are the reasons for the manufacturing sector shedding 4,600 local jobs while adding 24,100 foreign jobs in the year 2008.”
“In 2007, 1,488 cases were registered for mediation at the Community Mediation Centre (CMC). In 2008, this figure increased by approximately 10% to 1,641. Ninety-one percent of these cases were channelled to the CMC through referrals by frontline public agencies such as the Housing and Development Board, the Police, the Courts and through Members of Parliament. (b) What is the breakdown for the common cases referred? A majority of the cases handled by the CMC in 2007 and 2008 involved disputes between neighbours, which formed approximately 54% of CMC’s total caseload for the two years. Approximately 22% of the disputes involved conflicts between family members (13%) and disputes between acquaintances (9%), typically pertaining to relational and monetary matters. The remaining 24% involved relational conflicts involving mainly landlords and tenants, and disputes between hawkers and between colleagues. (c) How many were successfully mediated and how many proceeded with legal course of action following the mediation? A total of 539 and 684 or about 39% of all registered cases in 2007 and 2008 proceeded to mediation*. Of those cases that were mediated, about three in four cases were successfully resolved through the signing of a settlement agreement. As parties who choose to bring their disputes to the Court would usually approach the Courts directly, the CMC does not have exact statistics relating to the number of mediated cases that proceeded with legal action. However, based on CMC’s records, the recidivism rate for CMC mediated settlements, where parties seek to re-open the mediation process to further negotiate or work through the terms of the settlement, is fairly low, at approximately 2%.”