Wong Kan Seng
Singapore
“We all want a better future for our children and the future generations. Amid the debates, let us not lose sight of what we are working for – we are working for the benefit and future of Singaporeans. Not for growth targets, not for foreigners, but for Singaporeans.”
“Mrs Mildred Tan also suggested doing a longitudinal study on the impact of new citizens on Singapore. I am told that there is a periodic study on the perception of integration and rootedness of Singaporeans and PRs. A study is now ongoing too.”
“All they need to do is simply declare that they meet the residential criteria. EASING IN US ECONOMY (Impact on Singapore) 9. Ms Sylvia Lim asked the Senior Minister what will be the expected impact on the Singapore economy arising from the US Federal Reserve's announcement on 3rd November 2010 of a "quantitative easing" of the US economy…”
“Well, from the data I have here, 553 registered to vote before the 2006 GE and this is the data I have but Ms Lim may be right. There may be 1,000-odd that Ms Lim had mentioned. From what I am told now, we have 1,325 Singaporean overseas who are eligible to register to vote have registered.”
“But, as I said, there are so many other possibilities that they could come in and there could also be many possibilities that we could have missed and they have entered or left Singapore. LAND SWAP AGREEMENT FOR KTM STATION AND RAILWAY LANDS 2.”
“They are also recruiting people by offering them scholarships. So, we hope more of our companies can do that. Hopefully they come here to work for a while and, if they like our place, they may want to settle down. This is a place which they can think about. POPULATION AND TALENT DIVISION 5. Assoc. Prof.”
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“Sir, as Prof. Chin rightly pointed out, liberalisation of the armed security industry will lead to an increase in the demand for auxiliary police officers. The concern is whether this would lead to a lowering of standards. I would like to assure Prof. Chin that the current recruitment criteria will not be lowered. In addition to the criteria on educational qualifications and physical attributes, new applicants will need to undergo the various security screening and be cleared by the Singapore Police Force before they can be recruited. This would also apply to foreign applicants who have to furnish a certificate of no criminal conviction or its equivalent. The concern that he may have records that the Police does not have in Singapore can be addressed by this certificate of no criminal conviction issued by the home country of the foreigner concerned. To further address the point that competition may lead to a lowering of standards and control, the Singapore Police Force will be setting up a regulatory unit to oversee the auxiliary police forces and the auxiliary police officers. This unit will ensure that the standards will be maintained and that the auxiliary police officers will not abuse the powers given to them in the course of their work. The following measures will be taken. Firstly, through testing. With the liberalisation of the armed security industry, the auxiliary police forces will be allowed to set up their own training school or unit, as long as they are able to meet the criteria and standards set up by the Singapore Police Force. To ensure that high training standards are maintained, the Singapore Police Force will put in place a comprehensive certification and testing process.”
“The Minister explained earlier that the auxiliary police officers would not have the same standards of training and recruitment as the ordinary regular police officers, and they are not subject to the same disciplinary procedures, nor are the offences the same as those in the main police force. So, in effect, they are given the powers and privileges of police officers but not subject to the same strict regimen of discipline and proper conduct. I hope the Minister can assure this House and the public that such auxiliary police officers will perform their duties responsibly and that there will be sufficient checks in place to ensure that the officers in such organisations would be reliable and disciplined in their approach. With these comments, Sir, I support the Bill.”
“The intention, as I understand it from the Minister, is to allow owners of key installations and organisations to engage commercial auxiliary police forces, rather than to rely on the main police force. The Minister sees such auxiliary police forces as partners in their role to enhance and maintain Singapore as a secure and safe place to live and work. The Bill envisages that there will be several such forces, and that they are allowed to compete for work. Such forces can also be mobilised by the Ministry for contingencies and emergencies. I just have a couple of concerns. First, such organisations as the auxiliary police forces would be commercially based. So, costs do become an issue. Would the increase in the number of such APFs create an even more serious demand for suitable manpower? Will such auxiliary police forces be allowed to employ foreign employees as officers? If so, how do we know whether such employees would be reliable and trustworthy? Screening them for past employment records would prove to be difficult, as it involves foreign authorities. These officers might be armed but, hopefully, not going to be dangerous. I hope there will be enough checks in place to control this problem. Secondly, the Bill envisages that in times of emergency or other peacetime contingencies, the auxiliary police officers can be mobilised by the Ministry and they will then have the full powers of police officers. What safeguards do we have that they will be responsible in the exercise of such powers?”
“We have also taken the opportunity to refine the list of statutory duties of a police officer to better reflect the core functions of the Singapore Police Force. Sir, given the prevailing security climate, this Bill will enhance the physical security and protection of our critical infrastructure and key installations by raising the standards and performance of the auxiliary police forces, through regulated and open competition. It will also free up the Singapore Police Force to focus on its core duties while empowering it to maintain adequate controls over the auxiliary police forces and mobilise them when needed, to support the Government during any peacetime contingency and crisis situations. With these changes, we are confident that the armed security industry will be a competent and responsible partner of the Home Team in ensuring homeland security. Sir, I beg to move. Question proposed. Assoc. Prof. Chin Tet Yung (Sembawang): Sir, I rise to speak in support of the Bill that repeals and re-enacts the current Police Force Act. The police is now a highly professional organisation well supported by the public in general. It has achieved an excellent reputation for its fight against crime and terrorism. In so far as this Bill seeks to update the law on the main police force, I do not see any cause for concern. Indeed, the Bill seeks to enhance the disciplinary procedures and create new offences. These will no doubt make the police force an even more professional and trustworthy organisation. Sir, my main concern is with regard to the auxiliary police forces (APFs). The Minister has assured us that there will not be that many auxiliary police forces, and that there will be quite a number of checks and controls over such organisations.”
“The revised provisions in clauses 57 to 59 will also allow disciplinary procedures to be invoked against breaches committed by officers while on overseas duty. Rationalising outdated provisions The Bill proposes to repeal sections 44 to 48 of the Police Force Act pertaining to the deployment of Malaysian police force officers in Singapore. These provisions, which pre-dated Singapore's independence, are no longer necessary since in practice any such deployment will require Singapore's consent. The provisions have not been used since Singapore's independence. Even without these provisions, there is already excellent cooperation between the Singapore Police Force and the Royal Malaysian Police on operations, investigation, training and information exchanges pertaining to criminal cases. Other minor changes A number of other minor changes have been made. Outdated references to three classes of police officers, "subordinate officer", "inspector" and "gazetted officer", have been deleted. The Police Force Bill has been aligned with the Constitution, and now reflects that the Public Service Commission is invested with the power to appoint senior police officers. The range of service offences and disciplinary measures for police officers have also been updated to remove outdated forms of punishment, whilst ensuring that they are adequate to maintain high standards of discipline. The procedures for a Committee of Inquiry, including its composition, powers and conduct, have been updated and aligned with that of the other uniformed services. Likewise, the provisions related to powers, duties and discipline of National Service police officers have also been updated.”
“The sanctions include financial penalties for anti-competitive behaviour, which were modelled after the Telecommunications Act and the Media Development Authority of Singapore Act. The disciplinary measures that may be undertaken against errant or negligent auxiliary police officers have also been enhanced. Powers of mobilisation The Ministry of Home Affairs is also taking this opportunity to amend the Act to enable it to tap the auxiliary police forces to augment the homeland security when necessary. Currently, the Ministry can only mobilise CISCO auxiliary police officers in the event of a crisis. MHA does not have such powers over other auxiliary police forces, whose officers constitute an important and strategic resource in an emergency or crisis. Clause 97 of the Bill empowers the Ministry to mobilise any auxiliary police officers to support the Government during any peacetime contingency and crisis situations. Clause 98 ensures that auxiliary police forces whose officers are so mobilised are fairly compensated. Other amendments In addition to enhancing controls over auxiliary police officers, the Bill also makes other amendments and change outdated provisions in the existing Act. I shall briefly mention the main ones. Deployment of officers overseas The Police Force Act currently provides for the deployment of police officers to other countries, only if it is for the purpose of escorting and guarding of prisoners, or to Malaysia for any purpose. Clauses 20 and 56 of the Bill will widen the scope of this provision by allowing police officers to be deployed outside Singapore. Clause 56 also allows for the voluntary overseas deployment of Police National Service full-time officers, Police National Service officers, and officers of the Volunteer Special Constabulary.”
“Stronger regulatory controls The existing Police Force Act does not contain provisions to hold the auxiliary police forces accountable to the operational standards and requirements as determined by the Singapore Police Force and to regulate competitive behaviour between the auxiliary police forces. This is because the existing auxiliary police forces, with the exception of CISCO, operate only within the confines of their workplace and cannot operate islandwide. However, the new provision on auxiliary police forces will allow them to operate islandwide if they meet the standards set by the Singapore Police Force. The proposed Bill will allow the Singapore Police Force to issue directives relating to operational standards in armed security services, as well as codes of practice relating to competitive behaviour and market conduct. To enforce these directives and other requirements, the Singapore Police Force will have powers to conduct audits of the auxiliary police forces in the areas of operations, training and staffing. The Bill provides for punitive measures against anyone who obstructs such audits. In addition, auxiliary police forces will be required to seek approval from the Singapore Police Force before undertaking any new armed security services. This will ensure that auxiliary police forces can provide the service adequately. Stronger disciplinary measures The current Singapore Police Force Act does not provide for sanctions against auxiliary police forces as an entity. The proposed Bill provides for a comprehensive range of sanctions against auxiliary police forces as a whole, and against office bearers in the auxiliary police forces, when discipline and procedures have been breached.”
“Other auxiliary police forces will receive the assurance that CISCO will not enjoy any preferential treatment arising from its status as a statutory board. More details on the corporatisation will be announced when they are ready. However, Sir, this does not mean that with the opening up of the industry, there will be a proliferation of auxiliary police forces that will operate commercially anywhere in Singapore. While the Ministry of Home Affairs will allow market forces to determine the number of players the industry can support, a significant increase in the current number of auxiliary police forces in Singapore is clearly undesirable from both the security and economic viewpoints. Having too many players may result in an environment where industry standards are lowered as the auxiliary police forces respond to competitive pressures by cutting corners in order to win contracts. Thus, we will probably be allowing only two to three auxiliary police forces to operate islandwide. Limiting the powers of auxiliary police officers Sir, auxiliary police officers do not perform all the functions of a regular police officer. They do not undergo the same intensity of training as police officers. Their entry requirements are also different. Because of these factors, there is a need to exercise further controls on the auxiliary police officers and impose practical limits on the exercise and scope of police powers by them. Such limits are necessary since auxiliary police officers will only need selected police powers in the course of their professional duties. This will distinguish them from the regular police officers.”
“Establishing auxiliary police force Clause 86 will empower the Singapore Police Force, with the approval of the Minister for Home Affairs, to authorise the creation of auxiliary police forces that may operate commercially anywhere in Singapore, subject to specific conditions relating to ownership and the management of the auxiliary police forces. These conditions are necessary to ensure that only trusted agents may operate and manage auxiliary police forces in Singapore. Apart from being a Singapore-owned company, the Minister's approval is required for a change in ownership or substantial shareholder, so as to ensure that control of auxiliary police forces remains within Singapore's control and in good hands. By allowing more auxiliary police forces to operate islandwide, we will increase the pool of armed security officers that can support the Singapore Police Force in ensuring safety and security of Singapore. At the same time, we would also be introducing competition into the armed security industry, unlike currently where only CISCO is allowed to operate islandwide. With the liberalisation of the armed security industry, it is no longer tenable for CISCO to remain as a statutory board under the Home Affairs Ministry competing with other auxiliary police forces. In view of this, the Ministry of Home Affairs has decided to corporatise CISCO, to create a level playing field for all players in the armed security industry. With its corporatisation, CISCO will be freed from the various obligations and restrictions placed upon it as a statutory board under the Ministry of Home Affairs, and may allow market forces to determine its business ventures and decisions completely.”
“Under these Acts and Regulations, the auxiliary police officers in these auxiliary police forces are vested with a wide range of police powers, for example, search, arrest and the right to bear and discharge firearms. New Operating Environment Given the increasingly complex security environment since September 11, the security measures at the various critical infrastructure and key installations have been stepped up. However, it is not possible for the Singapore Police Force to do everything and be everywhere. To ensure sustainability of our security measures in the long run, the owners of critical infrastructure and facilities must assume some responsibility for their physical security and protection by engaging auxiliary police forces, instead of relying solely on the Singapore Police Force. For example, CISCO Auxiliary Police Force supports the Singapore Police Force in ensuring safety and security of Singapore by providing armed security services to power stations and Government buildings. They also assist in crowd and traffic control for large scale events, such as the Chinese New Year Carnivals at Chinatown. However, with the exception of the CISCO Auxiliary Police Force, all other auxiliary police forces can only exercise police powers within the limits of the areas owned by, or under the control of, the entities that own and operate the auxiliary police forces. For example, the Singapore Airport Terminal Services (SATS) Auxiliary Police Force may only operate within the confines of Changi Airport. This limitation on the areas of jurisdiction of the auxiliary police forces is no longer satisfactory.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." This Bill repeals the current Police Force Act and re-enacts a new Police Force Act because of the large number of amendments that have been proposed to the existing Act. This Bill consolidates all the amendments and retains all other provisions in the existing Police Force Act that did not need any amendments. Part IX - Auxiliary Police Forces The most significant change to the present Police Force Act concerns the auxiliary police forces. Part IX of the Bill details the changes that will be made to the armed security industry. It will address the existing restrictions on the areas of jurisdiction of auxiliary police forces and allow competition in the armed security industry. The Bill will also provide the Singapore Police Force with various powers to strengthen the current regulatory framework. Existing legislative controls Sir, the British created the concept of the Auxiliary Police Forces after the Second World War to enable selected entities like harbour warehouses to police their own areas of dwelling or business premises and operations. Today, there are five auxiliary police forces, such as CISCO Auxiliary Police Force, Aetos Auxiliary Police Force, the Singapore Airport Terminal Services (SATS) Auxiliary Police Force, with a total of some 5,000 auxiliary police officers. Currently, all auxiliary police forces, except for the CISCO Auxiliary Police Force, are regulated under section 71 of the Police Force Act and the Police Force (Auxiliary Police) Regulations. The CISCO Auxiliary Police Force is regulated by section 12 of the CISCO Act.”
“I do not think societies are comprised of enemies of the State or aliens. I think there should be more confidence in accepting the formation of societies in Singapore so that we can have the flourish of ideas on how to improve Singapore society. We should really review the approach whether we need to register societies. And we should perhaps pay more attention to the constitutional right that we all have of the freedom to association. I believe that, so long as societies are not political associations or act against the interest of the fundamental institutions of Singapore society, we should leave them to flourish. We should not control them to the extent that we are controlling them now. Because as it stands, even after these amendments, all societies still need to be registered. Otherwise, they would be regarded as unlawful. I think many Singaporeans would rather like to have societies which are more informal and which do not require them to go through all the gamut of application forms, and so on. With those comments, Sir, I support the Bill.”
“Then the next clause, "Any society whose object, purpose or activity, whether primary or otherwise, is to promote or discuss the use or status of any language." might cover even cultural groups discussing whether Mandarin ought to be used, and so on. So even looking at just two of the clauses, we can find that there were very few societies that would not be within the Schedule. I would like to know, out of the 6,000 that are registered, what percentage would actually in retrospect qualify for this automatic registration. While I welcome the change for automatic registration, I doubt very much whether it is as useful as it is intended to be. And given the fact that previously, the complaint was that it took two years to register, for example, the Roundtable, now the speed of registration is much faster and approvals are much faster, I really doubt whether this amendment would have a significant effect on improving social entrepreneurship in Singapore. Secondly, I would like to ask why the opportunity was not taken to review the discretion of the Registrar in declining to register a society. For example, the Registrar's discretion is very wide. It includes the Registrar deciding not to register a society on the basis that it is undesirable in his opinion. That sort of wide discretion should perhaps be controlled, how it is controlled and how can a society appeal for a review of the Registrar's exercise of discretion, short of going to the court of law for judicial review. While I welcome the amendments, I think this Bill raises the question: what are we to do with societies in Singapore? Should we not look forward to the day when registration is the exception rather than the rule? Should we not look at societies with some trust rather than mistrust?”
“There will be no changes to the imprisonment terms spelt out in the Act. As we administer the Societies Act with a light touch, these fines provisions have seldom been invoked. I expect this to remain so. Conclusion Sir, let me conclude. These amendments to the Societies Act will make it easier for many societies to be registered. The changes are in line with the Government's move to loosen up restrictions to encourage greater social entrepreneurship. Sir, I beg to move. Question proposed. Assoc. Prof. Chin Tet Yung (Sembawang): Mr Speaker, I welcome the amendments. But after listening to the Senior Minister of State saying that they can clear 99% of the applications within three months, I really wonder whether we need to have automatic registration of the type that he has proposed. I think it is good also that the Ministry has followed up on suggestions made by MPs in the past that there should be a quicker mode of registration of societies. But I have a few queries about the workings of this particular new amendment. First of all, I really would like to ask how useful is the new track procedure under clause 4. I ask this because the Schedule which provides for specified societies is extremely wide. The Senior Minister of State just now said that this was following the Remaking Singapore Committee's suggestion that they should list down what should be specified as societies. But if you look at the list, they cover the whole gamut of what the Senior Minister of State referred to as social entrepreneurship. For example, if I may take just two of them. Clause 5 says, "Any society whose object, purpose or activity, whether primary or otherwise, is to discuss any matter relating to the governance of Singapore society." That alone would, I think, cover all civic societies.”
“But let me assure Members that the power to dissolve a society has been invoked sparingly all these years, and only as a last resort. For example, over the past 13 years, from 1991 till the present, about 24 bogus football and sports clubs were dissolved to curb the operation of illegal billiard saloons, gaming machines and other gambling activities. As a check on societies that are automatically registered, ROS will conduct random audits on the declarations submitted by these societies after registration. Clause 5 of the Bill empowers the Registrar of Societies to order a society to change its name or rules, taking into account the need to safeguard national interest and public peace, welfare or good order in Singapore. This power will be confined to societies that are automatically registered. ROS will also ensure that these societies do not use names which are offensive, misleading or have already been used by other societies or organisations. It will be an offence if a society does not comply with the Registrar's order to change its name or rules. However, it shall be a defence for any officer of the society to establish to the satisfaction of the court that he has exercised due diligence, and it was for reasons beyond his control that he failed to comply with the order of the Registrar. Review of Fines Finally, Sir, MHA has taken the opportunity to streamline existing fines in the Act from the current six to three levels. The existing fines have not been changed since 1967 when the Societies Act was enacted. Hence, clause 8 of the Bill enhances the fines and collapses the existing six levels of fines, namely, maximum fines of $200, $500, $1,000, $2,000, $3,000 and $4,000 to three levels of fines, namely, maximum fines of $1,000, $3,000 and $5,000.”
“Their applications for registration will be considered through the current normal process which, as I have said, in terms of timing, has now been cut down, and it is working fairly well. Based on the current very high approval rate, I expect the vast majority of these societies to be approved for registration. I should add that the list of societies in the Schedule will be reviewed regularly. Clause 7 of the Bill inserts a new section 33A to empower the Minister to amend the Schedule by notification in the Gazette. Safeguards In the course of gathering feedback on the proposed automatic registration regime, there were some concerns that automatic registration might become a loophole for illegal or unlawful groups to register themselves. Hence, I would like to assure the House that there will be sufficient safeguards in place. For example, a society, whether registered automatically or through the normal registration process, is required to abide by its own constitution and the prevailing laws of Singapore. If the society engages in illegal activities, it will have to face the consequences. Also, currently, section 24(1) of the Societies Act empowers the Minister to order a society to be dissolved if the society is being used for unlawful purposes or for purposes prejudicial to public peace, welfare or good order in Singapore; or for purposes which are incompatible with its objects or rules; or when the society has wilfully contravened its own rules or any provision of the Act or its Regulations. Clause 6 of the Bill amends section 24(1) to empower the Minister to dissolve a society if it had secured automatic registration through false declaration or misrepresentation of its objects and activities at the point of registration.”
“This category includes political parties and political associations, as well as non-partisan political discussion groups. These organisations have an influence over the governance of Singapore and the national policies of the day. We must ensure that foreign elements do not hijack these organisations to serve a foreign agenda which is contrary to our national interests. Politics in Singapore is and must remain within the domain of Singaporeans. Another category of such societies is the alumni of foreign educational institutions. Given their links with their alma mater, it would be prudent to ensure that they do not establish themselves solely to fund or to receive funds and promote the cause of a foreign organisation. They can also have an impact on Singapore's bilateral relations with the foreign country in question. Societies that advocate civil or political rights are also specified in the Schedule. Such groups, which aim to promote a particular cause, can potentially give rise to law and order problems if they engage actively in pushing their agenda, without due regard for those who may not agree with their cause. Societies that promote or provide training in pugilistic or martial arts will also not be allowed automatic registration. When I spoke in Parliament last year, in moving the repeal of the Martial Arts Instructions Act, I assured Members that existing safeguards governing martial arts associations would remain in the Societies Act. This is necessary to prevent such associations from being exploited by secret societies and other criminal gangs. Sir, let me stress that it does not mean that the categories of societies specified in the Schedule cannot or will not be registered.”
“The automatic registration scheme is set out in clause 4 of the Bill. Clause 4 amends the Societies Act to enable a society that is not a specified society to be immediately registered on the date the Registrar receives the registration application so long as it is accompanied by payment of the prescribed fee, a copy of the proposed rules of the society and a declaration that the society's objects, purpose or activities are not those specified in the Schedule. This is a paradigm shift from the current approach. We expect more than half of the 200 or so societies applying to ROS for registration each year to benefit from this new automatic registration regime. Societies that do not qualify for automatic registration Clause 8 of the Bill amends the Societies Act to create a Schedule, listing down the categories of societies that will not be eligible for automatic registration. Let me explain why we should not allow these categories of societies to be automatically registered. Take the example of an ethnic or religious society. History has shown that religious and ethnic issues can potentially be divisive ones, especially in Singapore, a relatively young nation with a multi-religious and multi-racial society. We cannot afford to have individuals or groups exploit these issues without due regard to our country's fragile social fabric. Closer scrutiny of such societies is required to ensure that sufficient safeguards are in place in the societies' constitutions so that they will not carry out activities prejudicial to our national interests. For the same reason, societies whose main purpose is to discuss any matter relating to the governance of Singapore must go through the normal registration process.”
“The existing registration process treats all societies as a homogeneous group, and subjects all applications to the same level of scrutiny. Resulting from the review, MHA piloted a fast-track registration regime in January 2002. The pilot trial showed that there was scope to further differentiate and manage societies according to their character and activities. At one end of the spectrum, we have societies such as reading clubs, chess clubs, trade associations, alumni of local schools and staff sports & recreation clubs which pose minimal security concerns. At the other end, we have societies that are, for example, of a religious or racial nature which can be a cause for concern given the multi-religious and multi-ethnic nature of Singapore society. Illustrating a forward-looking approach, from a fast-track registration regime, which we were considering then, we, in fact, progressed and have now decided to adopt an automatic regime. Automatic Registration In doing this, MHA has taken note of the recommendation of the Remaking Singapore Committee to list down explicitly the types of societies that would require prior approval, and those not listed can then be registered without having to seek prior approval. MHA also consulted the public on the proposed automatic registration regime. An e-consultation paper was put up on the on-line feedback portal earlier this year, for a month. In addition, a Feedback Unit Session co-chaired by Mr Chandra Mohan and Mdm Ho Geok Choo was held on 29th January. Feedback received was generally supportive of the automatic registration regime and for a differentiated approach. Following the feedback received, we have finetuned and finalised the scheme. Sir, let me go through the main provisions of this Bill now.”
“The Bill also streamlines the fines stipulated under the Societies Act. Role of the Societies Act The Societies Act plays a gate-keeping role in ensuring that groups which may be used for unlawful purposes, or pose a threat to public order, welfare or good order in Singapore, or which will be contrary to our national interests are not allowed to establish themselves in Singapore. Over the years, the Registrar of Societies has administered the Act with a light touch. In the last five years, only 10 out of 1,236 applications for registration were rejected. This is less than 1%. Hence, the number of registered societies has increased from 3,900 in 1988, to 5,300 in 1999, to about 5,800 currently. The Registry of Societies (ROS) has been responsive to calls, in and out of this House, to speed up processing time. In 1999, 46.3% of approved applications were processed within two months and 72.2% within three months. Last year (2003), out of the 259 applications approved, 97% were approved within two months and 99% within three months. So, the norm has moved from three to two months. Indeed, last year, about 60% of the applications were approved within a month. So the speed of approval has improved, but we have not been satisfied. Review of the Societies Act Hence, looking beyond expediting the application process, MHA initiated a comprehensive review of the Societies Act in December 2000, with a view of making it easier for the majority of societies which pose minimal law and order or security concerns to be registered. As the Act has not been amended since 1982, MHA also took the opportunity to review the other provisions to ensure that they remained robust and relevant.”
“POLICE FORCE BILL "to repeal and re-enact with amendments the law relating to the Singapore Police Force and to provide for its organisation and discipline and other related matters and to make consequential amendments to certain other written laws", presented by the Minister for Home Affairs (Mr Wong Kan Seng); read the First time; to be read a Second time on the next available sitting of Parliament, and to be printed. MANUFACTURE OF OPTICAL DISCS BILL "to provide for the regulation and control of the manufacture of optical discs, and for matters connected therewith", presented by the Minister of State for Trade and Industry (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. DEVELOPMENT FUND (AMENDMENT) BILL "to amend the Development Fund Act (Chapter 80 of the 1995 Revised Edition)", recommendation of President signified; presented by the Second Minister for Finance (Mr Lim Hng Kiang); read the First time; to be read a Second time on the next available sitting of Parliament, and to be printed. MEDICINES (AMENDMENT) BILL "to amend the Medicines Act (Chapter 176 of the 1985 Revised Edition)", presented by the Acting Minister for Health (Mr Khaw Boon Wan); read the First time; to be read a Second time on the next available sitting of Parliament, and to be printed. SOCIETIES (AMENDMENT) BILL Order for Second Reading read. The Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs (Assoc. Prof. Ho Peng Kee): Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." Introduction Sir, this Bill amends the Societies Act to allow certain societies to be automatically registered, whilst safeguarding our national interests, security and public order.”
“BILLS INTRODUCED LEGAL PROFESSION (AMENDMENT) BILL "to amend the Legal Profession Act (Chapter 161 of the 2001 Revised Edition)", presented by the Minister for Law (Prof. S. Jayakumar); read the First time; to be read a Second time on the next available sitting of Parliament, and to be printed. TRADE MARKS (AMENDMENT) BILL "to amend the Trade Marks Act (Chapter 332 of the 1999 Revised Edition) and to make consequential amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code (Chapter 68 of the 1985 Revised Edition)", presented by Prof. Jayakumar; read the First time; to be read a Second time on the next available sitting of Parliament, and to be printed. PATENTS (AMENDMENT) BILL "to amend the Patents Act (Chapter 221 of the 2002 Revised Edition)", presented by Prof. Jayakumar; read the First time; to be read a Second time on the next available sitting of Parliament, and to be printed. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY (MISCELLANEOUS AMENDMENTS) BILL "to amend the Copyright Act (Chapter 63 of the 1999 Revised Edition), the Layout-Designs of Integrated Circuits Act (Chapter 159A of the 2000 Revised Edition) and the Registered Designs Act (Chapter 266 of the 2001 Revised Edition) mainly to implement certain obligations undertaken by Singapore under the United States-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (USSFTA) concluded in 2003", presented by Prof. Jayakumar; read the First time; to be read a Second time on the next available sitting of Parliament, and to be printed. PLANT VARIETIES PROTECTION BILL "to provide for the protection of plant varieties", presented by Prof. Jayakumar; read the First time; to be read a Second time on the next available sitting of Parliament, and to be printed.”
“They are: MAJ Kadir Maideen Bin Mohamed LTA Chew Keng Tok LTA Ong Chee Wee LTA Mohamed Nazim Bin Kudin CPT Alan Toh SSG Jaais Bin Sol SGT Ahmad Faizal Bin Abdul Hanan SGT Anuar Bin Ahmad SGT Muhammad Hairul Nazwa Bin Dol Commissioner James Tan Chan Seng who was in overall command of the rescue operation will be awarded the Public Administration Medal (Gold). He displayed strong and effective leadership. He led by example, being on the site all the time, tirelessly directing the rescue efforts, dealing with the media and briefing the relatives of the victims. The outstanding performance and high morale of the rescue forces under his command bore testimony to his management of the incident. For their unwavering dedication, persistence and bravery, 18 other officers from the Singapore Civil Defence Force will be awarded other State medals: (a) one for the Public Administration Medal (Bronze); and (b) 17 for the Commendation Medal. I will ask the Clerk of Parliament to distribute the complete list* of names to Members. There were other persons who made invaluable contributions in many different ways during the Nicoll Highway operations. They will be recognised appropriately through department commendations, commendations from the Minister for Home Affairs and in other ways. We all hope that such a tragedy never occurs again, and will do our utmost to reduce the likelihood to the absolute minimum. But the performance of our SCDF professionals as well as an ordinary Singaporean with extraordinary courage in this Nicoll Highway accident should inspire all of us, and give us reason to be confident that confronted with the most daunting challenge, we will overcome the difficulties and not be found wanting. * Will be printed in the Singapore Parliament Report.”
“Significant ground movement had been recorded by teams of engineers from LTA, BCA and Japanese contractors. The untimely arrival of heavy rains exacerbated matters. If immediate actions were not taken to stabilise the area, the surrounding buildings might also be endangered. The rescue operations finally had to be called off at about 6.00 pm on 23rd April. Before the collapse, Mr Heng Yeow Pheow, a foreman of Kori Construction, was supervising cementing work some 30 metres below ground level when he heard continuous buckling sounds from the struts. He immediately ordered all his workers to evacuate the area, but remained behind himself to ensure that all the workers were evacuated safely. Unfortunately, the exit stairs collapsed before he could escape. For his selfless and valiant act, the Government has decided to award Mr Heng Yeow Pheow the Medal of Valour (Posthumous). The extremely risky and harrowing conditions at the Nicoll Highway cave-in testify to the dedication, persistence and bravery of the SCDF officers and others who took part in the search and rescue operations. That the DART officers succeeded in extricating three bodies buried under the rubble testifies to their courage and perseverance during the search and rescue operations. Nine Singapore Civil Defence officers who were most directly involved in the dangerous search and rescue operations inside the collapsed site will also be awarded the Medal of Valour.”
“Sir, Ms Irene Ng asked a question of the Prime Minister about the awards for those involved in the the Nicoll Highway operations, and I would like to make a Ministerial Statement on this. The Nicoll Highway cave-in happened on 20th April at about 3.30 pm. Within 10 minutes, the first responders arrived at the scene. They immediately started the search and rescue operations that did not cease till four days later. It was a tragic accident and by far the most difficult and dangerous operation the SCDF had been called upon to tackle since the Hotel New World collapse in 1986. Not only was the incident site which measured about 110 metres by 150 metres huge, but the rescue operations were fraught with dangers to the lives of the rescuers from further soil movements and collapse. The rescuers had to work in chest-high, turbulent, murky waters, amidst unstable sharp exposed metal and concrete structures, and near-zero visibility to find and recover the four victims trapped under the rubble. Working round the clock in two shifts, the officers and men from the SCDF utilised all equipment and means, tactics and techniques, and sometimes literally even their bare hands, to undertake the very difficult operations. At the end of four days of continuous operations, the SCDF managed to retrieve three of the four bodies that were trapped in the rubble. After heroic efforts, the SCDF had to give up the search for the last body, that of Mr Heng Yeow Pheow. The commanders assessed that it was too deeply and intricately embedded in the rubble to be recovered without unacceptable risks to the lives of the rescuers. We all share the grief of those who lost their loved ones, both foreigners and Singaporeans.”
“Sir, I would like to make a short ministerial statement on this afterwards.”
“One of the objectives of the review is to standardise referral and admission criteria and procedures to the Homes. This will ensure that the service is made available to people who require it. 'A' LEVEL EXAMINATIONS 4. Dr Tan Cheng Bock asked the Acting Minister for Education for the past five years (1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003) how many students (i) sat for the 'A' level examinations; (ii) passed the said examinations; (iii) failed; and (iv) entered the university.”
“For older adults who are frail and aged between 50 and 60 years, they can obtain support either from day care centres or home help services. Although these services are targeted more at the older group (those above 55 years old), they can be extended to adults under 55 years on a case-by-case basis. MCDS provides subsidies to users of day care centres (through the means test framework) and the home help service. The Ministry of Health also oversees several Day Rehabilitation Centres across the island which provide outpatient rehabilitation to help Singaporeans who become disabled as a result of an accident or stroke. Subsidies are given based on the means testing framework as well, for needy clients. Residential Institutions If a disabled person requires full-time care that cannot be catered for in the community, there are residential options. A person who is assessed to have rehabilitation potential can be admitted to Community Hospitals for short term in-patient rehabilitation to improve functional abilities. Long-term care facilities such as chronic sick hospitals or nursing homes cater to those who have maximised their rehabilitation potential and still require continuing and nursing care. MCDS also works with Voluntary Welfare Organisations to set up and run Homes for disabled adults at all ages. Besides providing long-term residential care for persons with disabilities who are either destitute, neglected or whose caregivers are unable or incapable of caring for them, these Homes also provide short-term respite care for families who require the service. Residents are subsidised according to their household income. MCDS is currently doing a review of the Homes for disabled adults.”
“The information is as follows:Nationality Number of persons holding valid Re-Entry Permits* Percentage South East Asian Countries 216,315 62% Other Asian countries 109,963 31% Others 24,218 7% Total 350,496 100% * Re-Entry Permits are issued to Permanent Residents so that they can travel in and out of Singapore . SERVICES AND FUNDING FOR THE DISABLED 3. Ms Braema Mathiaparanam asked the Minister for Community Development and Sports what are the services (both residential and day-care) and funding available to (i) disabled adults aged 60 years and below, who were disabled in road accidents or through strokes and (ii) adults aged between 50 and 60 years who are frail and do not qualify for nursing home care but who need assistance for daily living activities. Assoc. Prof. Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: Community-based Services There is a range of community-based services available to people with disabilities who are either disabled from birth or as a result of a traffic accident or stroke. One such facility is the Day Activity Centre for people with disabilities, which provides alternative care arrangements to relieve caregivers from looking after their disabled family members during the day. At Day Activity Centres, clients learn or re-learn skills for daily living. MCDS provides both capital funding for these centres as well as recurrent funding for the running of the programme. Day Activity Centres generally take in persons aged 16-55. For persons beyond age 55, a review is made to assess the suitability of the client for continued care at the Day Activity Centre or for transfer to a Day Care Centre for the Elderly. Clients at the elderly day care centres are means-tested and are given subsidies, if eligible, depending on their household income.”
“In 2002, there were 107 registered clubs licensed to operate a total of 1,881 fruit machines (jackpot machines). In 2003, the number of clubs remained unchanged, with a total of 1,891 fruit machines. Registered clubs do not require a licence to operate gaming rooms with arcade-type amusement machines and, as such, we do not have the statistics. Permits are issued under the Private Lotteries Act for the use of fruit machines. Applications for a permit to operate fruit machines will be considered only from registered members' clubs, which are not primarily set up for gaming, wagering or conducting lotteries. In addition, the club must have operated for at least one year and have at least 500 voting members for the past one year. Clubs are also required to pay a deposit of $10,000 per fruit machine. No profits are allowed to accrue to any individual from the operation of the machines and in the event that the club is dissolved, money accruing from the fruit machines must be donated to a charitable organisation or a fund approved by the Commissioner of Estate Duties. PERMANENT RESIDENTS 2. Dr Jennifer Lee asked the Minister for Home Affairs what are the numbers of Permanent Residents in Singapore by their respective citizenships.”
“This change is to enhance operational effectiveness, not secure manpower savings. Lastly, Ms Mathi asked about the number of officers stationed at the Neighbourhood Police Posts during the new opening hours. The number remains unchanged. We will continue to have at least one officer stationed at every Neighbourhood Police Post during opening hours. Additional officers will be present as and when required. WRITTEN ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS REGISTERED CLUBS WITH JACKPOT AND GAMING ROOMS 1. Mdm Cynthia Phua asked the Minister for Home Affairs (a) how many registered clubs in Singapore have jackpots and gaming rooms in 2003 compared with 2002 and (b) what are the criteria used to grant them the licences.”
“With effect from 5th April 2004, the operating hours of Neighbourhood Police Posts or NPPs were changed from noon till 10 pm daily. Ms Braema Mathi asked why we changed the operating hours. The change was part of Police's ongoing efforts to optimise the deployment of its officers to deal more effectively with crime and potential terrorist threats. Our records over the last five years show that demand for services at the NPPs has dropped by half. Many people now go to one of the 31 Neighbourhood Police Centres instead, as these provide a broader range of services and are open round-the-clock. Our records also show that 75% of the transactions at the NPPs take place between noon and 10 pm. It therefore makes sense to change the operating hours to cater to this demand pattern. With this change in NPP operating hours, we can now put 65 more officers on active neighbourhood patrols, instead of having them at the NPPs. A more mobile police will more effectively project police presence on the ground, for example, at markets and other high-traffic areas to deter crime. At night, these officers can be deployed to patrol crime-prone areas and conduct anti-crime patrols and ambushes. Ms Mathi asked about the nature of the transactions at the NPPs. The vast majority of transactions at NPPs are not urgent or critical. These include changes of addresses, lost and found reports, and traffic reports. For urgent matters, the public should contact the Police using the 999 hotline. In addition, when the NPPs are closed, the public can use the Emergency Communications System found outside the NPPs or go to any of the 31 Neighbourhood Police Centres. Ms Mathi asked about the savings resulting from this change in the operating hours.”
“Adjourned accordingly at Fifteen Minutes to Four o'clock pm to Monday, 19th April 2004. APPENDICES”
“Sir, on behalf of Members, I would like to thank you as well as your deputies very much for chairing this year's Committee of Supply. We have a long sitting from 11.00 am to 6.30 pm every day over 11 days. This is a record set by the inflation of amendments over the years. We had 484 amendments in 2001, 518 in 2002, 707 in 2003 and 769 in 2004. To contain this trend, we have to find a better way of doing this next year, which means that we have to explore what we should do to ensure that we have better time management so that every Member will have a chance to develop his points substantially, while not being cut off when the Speaker, or the Chairman, is not in a good mood. We have to come to some compromise. There are many occasions for MPs to make comments and speeches, not just in this Chamber, but also outside. There are motions which they can move and questions which they can ask. So there is no need to ask all the questions during the Committee of Supply, just as there is no need for the Ministers to give policy speeches during the Committee of Supply. There are more opportunities for Ministers to make policy statements than anybody else. And I think they can exercise that right on some other time rather than to make them only during the Committee of Supply, so that we have a more interesting debate and discussions during our Committee of Supply. Having said that, Sir, once again, may I thank you and your deputies for your patience and indulgence for hearing us out, and for sitting through long hours, and sometimes hearing long and boring speeches. Sir, I beg to move, That Parliament do now adjourn to Monday, 19th April, 2004. ADJOURNMENT Resolved, "That Parliament do now adjourn to Monday, 19th April, 2004" - [Mr Wong Kan Seng].”
“I have outlined a few examples of how the community and the Home Team successfully brought together the expertise, knowledge and resources to address a particular issue, and I encourage more of such efforts. We will also leverage on the security industry to complement our counter terrorism and crime prevention efforts. Our security environment is constantly changing and getting more complex. We will continue to pay attention to the training of security guards. There will be no sacred cows, bulls or any animal. The Auxiliary Police Force Bill that we intend to table before Parliament this year will further strengthen the armed security industry in Singapore so as to gear it up to meet the new challenges that lie ahead as a strategic partner of the Home Team. Together, all of us can make Singapore a safe and secure home. Penal Code”
“However, the House can be assured that my Ministry will take all the necessary and practical measures to prevent a terrorist attack. We will ensure that adequate preventive measures are put in place and we will continually review our contingency plans and crisis management mechanisms to meet the changing environment. The enhancements to the crisis management structure, which I have just announced, will be improved in tandem with the operational imperatives. We will also continue to work closely with regional countries and with the international community on counter terrorism cooperation. Nonetheless, there is no foolproof defence against terrorism. The population must remain vigilant and be prepared for the possibility of a terrorist attack. Together we can and must work to minimise the terrorist threat. We will also not let up in our efforts to keep the crime situation under control. Singapore remains a safe place to live, work and bring up the family. Our crime rate is one of the lowest in the world. But there will always be specific areas such as youth crime and crimes against the elderly which confront us from time to time. We will rise to the challenge and take all the necessary steps to nip the problem in the bud. The Ministry will keep abreast of the changing environment and, where appropriate, bring about changes to the laws and policies to keep up with the times. The proposed changes to the Constitution and the enactment of the Auxiliary Police Force Bill are just two examples. It bears emphasising that the community must also continue to play its role in ensuring the safety and security of Singapore.”
“Nevertheless, with the recognition that there are more mobile Singaporeans - more Singaporeans are now going abroad - we have reviewed this policy and will be amending the Constitution to lift the limitation on the transfer of citizenship by descent to one generation. However, the Singapore parent must demonstrate a nexus to Singapore. This will take the form of a residency criterion. The Singaporean parent must have stayed in Singapore for a stretch of at least two years within the five years before the birth of his or her child. This is similar to the criterion that we use for overseas voting for determining whether a Singaporean is eligible for overseas voting. Alternatively, the child can qualify for citizenship by descent if the parent had been resident in Singapore for a total of five years or more cumulatively over his or her entire lifetime up to the birth of the child. The Bill to amend this part of the Constitution will be tabled in Parliament by the end of this Committee of Supply. I would like to emphasise that the Government values every citizen. The grant of citizenship by descent is one of the privileges that Singaporeans enjoy. However, I must stress that we should not take citizenship for granted. All Singaporeans have a stake in the nation's success and share a responsibility for the welfare of their fellow Singaporeans. Even with the changes, Singaporeans living and working overseas must continue to make an effort to ensure that they and their children remain rooted and committed to Singapore. In conclusion, Sir, as I have covered quite a few areas this morning, I would like to summarise the key points of what I have said. Terrorism will remain as the most severe threat to our nation's security.”
“Right now, Article 122 of our Constitution says that only male citizens can pass on citizenship by descent to the children born overseas. Children born overseas to female Singaporeans can acquire citizenship but by registration. It is not that female citizens with children born overseas cannot have their children registered as citizens. They can, but it is under a different Article - by registration and not by descent. Even though Singapore is customarily still very much a patrilineal society, we need to recognise that an increasing number of Singaporean men and women travel overseas to work, to study or to pursue their other personal goals. Correspondingly, there is an increasing number of Singaporean women who marry foreigners, and some may even start a family abroad. We recognise this new trend and we want them and their children to remain connected to Singapore. The Government has therefore reviewed this policy and will amend the Constitution to allow female Singaporeans to transfer citizenship by descent to their children born overseas. This, effectively, makes the grant of citizenship by descent gender neutral. Related to this issue of citizenship by descent is that the Constitution currently does not allow a Singaporean citizen by descent to pass on citizenship by descent to his or her foreign born children. This is the current situation. The child can only acquire citizenship by registration. The intent behind this provision was that we do not want to end up with a generation of absentee Singaporeans who do not even know much about or feel for the country.”
“Later this year, the Ministry will table an Auxiliary Police Force Bill in Parliament to enable all auxiliary police forces, other than CISCO, to operate islandwide provided they meet certain conditions. This move will introduce limited competition to the industry, which we hope will raise standards and performance. This also means that community and non-profit organisations such as the ones Mr Yatiman mentioned would not be limited to engaging only CISCO guards when they need such services. With this development, we are hopeful that prices will come down. In the meantime, Mr Yatiman may wish to note that CISCO is reviewing its pricing tier for non-profit and non-commercial entities to see if prices can be lowered. The proposed Bill will empower the Ministry of Home Affairs to mobilise any Auxiliary Police Force to support the Home Team during peacetime contingencies and other crisis situations. In other words, we can mobilise them. With these changes, we are confident that the armed guards industry will become a capable and competent partner of the Home Team in ensuring homeland security. Now, Sir, let me address Mr Charles Chong's and Dr Jennifer Lee's question about citizenship. She asked what caused the Ministry to change. Well, times have changed. As times change, we review what we have done before and, therefore, now is the time to change because the situation has changed. It is as simple as that. 12.15 pm The Remaking of Singapore Committee, last year, also made a similar observation. Dr Amy Khor also raised this and DPM Lee has already given Members an idea of what the Government will do. The Government will review the citizenship provision in Article 122 of our Constitution.”
“The training is conducted by serving CISCO police officers with many years of ground experience and who have to be certified by Police as trainers. In other words, they are trained as trainers. At the end of their course, the trainees are assessed by the Police, and must pass a shooting test because they are handling arms, as well as a written and other scenario-based tests. Mr Yatiman asked if it is timely to introduce competition to the armed guards industry. Today, besides CISCO, there are six other auxiliary police forces that provide armed security services. However, as Mr Yatiman pointed out, they are only allowed to operate within specified locations, such as the airport or the sea port areas. Unlike these auxiliary police forces, CISCO can operate islandwide as it was formed way back in 1972 to take over from the Singapore Police Force the functions of providing armed security services to Government departments and commercial and industrial establishments. Despite being a monopoly, the prices that CISCO charges have been reasonable. CISCO's prices have not risen over the years. Its current prices remain at 1997 levels due to its aggressive cost management measures. The example cited by Mr Yatiman, for the cost of engaging CISCO guards seems high only because of the scale and the duration of the Chinese New Year celebrations in Chinatown this year. The celebrations lasted 19 days, five days longer than last year, and it covered a much larger area. As a result, more guards were required. Let me now address Mr Yatiman's queries about competition in the armed guards industry. With the increasingly challenging security environment, my Ministry has been looking at how to strengthen the armed guards industry.”
“On completing the course, they are required to pass a four-hour hands-on assessment conducted one-to-one by former law enforcement and military officers engaged by the Workforce Development Agency. From 1st March 2005, only guards who are trained and certified to be competent can be deployed as security guards. This is a licensing condition for all security agencies which they will have to comply with. That means, only those operating as security guard agencies will need to comply with this requirement. But Prof. Ngiam also mentioned security guards in condominiums. Now the condominium guards are different. The condominium guards are employed directly by the condominium management corporation. It is no different from employing a gardener or a technician, and so on. So, if the condominium management corporation wants these guards to be trained, by all means send them for training. But the Police will take a step further to engage them, that is, by informing these management corporations the kind of necessary training that they need to perform their guard duties in their own condominiums. The training of armed guards is a totally different matter. It is more robust. All armed guards, or what you call auxiliary police officers, carry weapons. They have to go through a mandatory six-week course conducted by CISCO. Their training syllabus is vetted by the Police. It includes training in physical fitness, protective security, police procedures, law, and the handling of firearms. They are also trained to manage bomb threats, deal with difficult persons, check suspicious items, vehicles and personnel and in the usage of equipment such as X-ray machines and metal detectors.”
“The EPGs are deliberately formed under the Citizen's Consultative Committees because, being the apex of the constituency grassroots organisations, the CCC will have the necessary overview of the capabilities of existing grassroots organisations and the community resources. In this way, the EPGs are best positioned to leverage and assemble the appropriate package of resources to respond to different kinds of emergencies. While the various groups will continue with the regular programmes, for example, the Civil Defence Executive Committee (CDEC) will continue to deal with civil defence issues, and the Neighbourhood Watch Zone to deal with crime prevention, some of them may well have to build new capabilities to discharge new emergency roles. Turning to the security industry and the training of armed guards, let me first touch on the issue of security guards' training as a few Members, like Prof. Ngiam, have voiced some concerns. We all know that security guards play an important role in ensuring security in the place where they guard. To complement our efforts in combating crime, Police will also continue to work closely with the security industry. I would like to assure Prof. Ngiam that we take the training of security guards seriously. To enhance the competency and standards of private security guards, the Police, SPRING Singapore, the Workforce Development Agency and the security manpower industry have jointly developed a set of skills standard under the National Skills Recognition System (NSRS). Under this framework, which was introduced in November 2002, security guards undergo a five-day course where they receive training on skills such as how to perform access control and patrols, preserve crime scenes and manage a bomb threat.”
“However, the true benefit of the CSSP can really be reaped only if Members are able to encourage residents in the community to play an active part in coming up with solutions to their own community's safety and security concerns, which means that they must take ownership of the problem that they face in their own constituency and find a solution to that with the help or resources of the Police. Mr Ahmad Khalis asked if the Police is willing to intervene and to address the disparity and quality of CSSP projects in the different precincts. I would like to assure the Member that the Home Team will continue to support and assist the community to implement these projects. But I must stress that for these CSSPs to work, the strong support of the community is crucial. But we cannot even out the performance of all the CSSPs. Much depends on the leadership, as well as the enthusiasm and interest of the community leaders and the residents. Prof. Chin suggested a unified approach instead of having different kinds of committees and structures in the neighbourhood to address emergency and crime, instead of having, for example, Emergency Preparedness Groups, Neighbourhood Watch Zones, Civil Defence Executive Committees and so on. The Emergency Preparedness Groups (EPGs) were introduced by the People's Association to lead and coordinate emergency preparedness activities of the various grassroots organisations, and to prepare the residents to deal with such emergencies as an infectious disease outbreak, water shortages, a huge fire, or even a bomb blast.”
“That is the kind of public-spiritedness that we want to see in our people. Police officers and their CSSP partners are given training on how to formulate and implement community safety and security programme projects. We also recognise good community safety and security programme projects through the CSSP Awards. These best practices and experiences, accumulated through past CSSP projects, are then shared with their other community partners. This will help the new Residents Committees kick-start their CSSP projects. So, to answer the Member's point, yes, there is a proper and a structured framework for the implementation, monitoring and sharing of the community safety and security programme projects. Mr Charles Chong also asked for an update on the CSSP. Last year, over 800 CSSPs were implemented in over 600 Residents Committees and Neighbourhood Committees, which shows that practically all our RCs and Neighbourhood Committees have got a CSSP of one sort or another. Not all CSSP projects are the same because the kind of problems that each estate and each precinct face may be different and, therefore, they have to identify what is needed in their own neighbourhood. The large and growing number of diverse CSSP projects, addressing a wide range of concerns and implemented with active support of residents, shows that CSSP is not an illusion. Nevertheless, my Ministry is well aware that numbers alone do not tell the whole story. CSSP activities that seek to raise safety and security consciousness, such as exhibitions on fire safety and crime prevention, are clearly necessary and useful.”
“The residents came together with the Hong Kah North Zone 4 and the Bukit Batok Neighbourhood Police Centre to implement the Community On Patrol (COP). Residents and RC members conducted regular joint patrols in the neighbourhood and helped to spread the crime prevention message. As a result, no further case of house-breaking has since been reported in Hong Kah North Zone 4. The residents living there now feel safer. So, for those estates where residents feel that they are fearful of house-breaking crime in their own estates, please do something to help themselves. Let me now move on to the topic of community policing which some Members have raised yesterday. Mr Ahmad Khalis asked how effective community policing has been. Since its introduction in 1983, community policing has served us well. There are three strengths of community policing. First, it brings together different stakeholders to address concerns of the society or neighbourhood which, if not tackled at their roots, may otherwise degenerate into crime. Second, the involvement of different stakeholders, and not just the Police, allows expertise, knowledge and resources to be brought together to tackle a problem. Third, the extensive involvement of various parties help to generate civil responsibility and a pro-social attitude and behaviour. From 1989 when the Neighbourhood Police Post (NPP) system was fully operational, the crime rate declined from 1,871 per 100,000 population in 1989 to about 800 per 100,000 population last year. The proportion of arrests for major offences with public assistance has also generally risen and currently hovers around 30% to 50%, which means that the residents' involvement in anti-crime as well as in the arrest of individuals who commit crime has been very encouraging.”
“Many of these break-ins were committed by serial offenders in HDB flats and commercial complexes. About three-quarters of the break-ins into HDB flats were committed during the day. Most of the culprits forced open the sliding windows and grilles facing the common corridors. It would be overly simplistic to attribute this to a deficiency in the design of the HDB's grilles and windows. Rather, it shows that many Singaporeans pay scant attention to the security of their premises. They should secure their doors, windows and grilles properly with good quality locks. They can also install an alarm system to deter would-be burglars. Residents can take other simple steps, such as not leaving notes outside the home and cancelling all deliveries while they are away, even for a few days because these are clear tell-tale signs that there is no one at home. If residents need help they can always have access to the police who can give them crime prevention tips. In fact, crime prevention roadshows have been held from time to time in the community and I hope residents take a close look at them and see how they can prevent the crime being committed in their own homes. Clearly, and certainly, the residents themselves must take the initiative and not leave everything to the police. Thirty-five Community Safety and Security Programmes (CSSP) have been formed to specifically address house-breakings in estates where house-breaking was prominently higher. I am pleased to note that quite a few of these have been successful and I just want to cite one example. In early 2003, two flats in Hong Kah North Zone 4 were broken into in separate incidents and a large amount of property was stolen.”
“In addition, the syndicates are careful to evade attention. It is difficult to catch them red-handed, short of having Police officers lying in wait for weeks in all these flats that have been harassed, and sometimes for months, to ambush the offender. Members would appreciate that this would be a waste of Police resources. Instead, what Police can practically do is to continue to conduct anti-loan shark operations based on intelligence, and targeting the syndicate leaders so as to cripple the entire syndicate. Last year, Police carried out about 580 operations, and arrested a total of 330 persons for illegal moneylending and harassment. This is an improvement over 287 arrested in 2002. Just last week, Police arrested 45 members of three syndicates in a major sting operation. They were believed to be responsible for more than 600 instances of harassment against debtors over the past 12 months. 12.00 noon The Member also suggested having tough penalties for borrowers who did not change their addresses and continued borrowing. I fully agree with him. The penalties are already severe. A person who fails to change his address can be fined up to $5,000 and be jailed up to five years. When we come across such cases, the Police will press for a deterrent sentence. Last year, 48 offenders were investigated and those convicted were given fines ranging from $500 to $5,000 and imprisonment of 1-3 months. On house-breaking, which was raised yesterday, Prof. Chin and Mr Charles Chong would like to know if there is anything more that the residents and the community can do to prevent house-breaking. Mr Chong was particularly concerned about the rise in the number of house-breakings in HDB flats.”
“Parents must also play their part, in other words, parents should not leave it to the school nor the Police to deal with their children. Parents must play their part by paying attention to the company that their children hang around with. Voluntary welfare organisations are also encouraged to come forward and work with the Government agencies to tackle the problem of youth crime. I would like to put on record my appreciation to the volunteers and there are many of them, but I will just name two - Elim Chew of 77th Street and radio personality, Danny Yeo, for putting together a book, "My Voice" to help bridge the communication gap between the youths and adults, and the Singapore Association of Women Lawyers, which intends to publish a book to explain the law simply to the youths. These are examples of how the many-helping-hands approach can be used to address the problem of youth crime. Sir, Mr Heng Chee How spoke about the harassment by loan sharks. There was an increase of about 80% from 2,800 such cases in 2002 to about 5,000 last year. A small number of these were due to borrowers who had used their NRICs with the old addresses when borrowing from illegal moneylenders. For such people, when they are caught, they will definitely be punished for committing another offence. They are the ones who have moved homes and therefore did not change their address leaving the new owner the ordeal of having to deal with the loan sharks. I can understand the frustrations and anguish of these victims. But there is no easy solution. Police's investigation and enforcement are often impeded because the debtors themselves are not forthcoming in providing the information. Indeed, in many instances, the debtor is a member of the family being harassed.”
“First time offenders who had a minor brush with the law may be put on the Guidance Programme managed by the Ministry of Community Development and Sports. This programme helps to reform youth offenders by giving them a second chance. Upon completing the programme, the Police may caution the youth to stay away from crime, instead of charging him. I would like to assure the Member that Police officers are trained to deal with offenders of all ages, from youths to the elderly. The Police is also mindful of the need to handle young offenders sensitively. For example, young offenders are not put together in the same cell with other adult offenders when they are detained in the police station. So what more can be done, especially in reaching out to the youths who are at risk of turning to crime? Let me just briefly mention some of the new initiatives under the IMYC. Police will work with the Ministry of Education to introduce electronic gaming as a channel of communication that youths can better identify with to drive home the crime prevention message. Police will also emphasise the seriousness of rioting offences by impressing upon our youths that they can be charged in court even if they are not fighting, but merely supporting their friends in the fight. Other IMYC partner-agencies will also implement various preventive measures to fight youth crimes. For example, MCDS will enhance the capabilities of voluntary welfare organisations in school-based social work. MCDS will also be setting up a secretariat to coordinate the various programmes targeting out-of-school youths. The Minister for Community Development and Sports will elaborate on this in his Ministry's Committee of Supply.”
“The Committee comprises representatives from the Education Ministry, Community Development and Sports Ministry, key youth organisations like the NYC, and several other stakeholders. There are principals who are represented in that Committee as well. So the crime statistics concerning youth and their profile, their background, their socio-economic environment are all presented at the IMYC. They would then look at the profile and target the areas which they think we can do something about. For example, the National Crime Prevention Council and educational institutions organised a series of Youth Crime Prevention roadshows for 198 educational institutions in the second half of 2003. The roadshows focused on theft, shop theft and rioting which were the crimes most commonly committed by youths, and aimed to impress upon students the adverse effects of committing crime and to inform them of the simple steps they can take to avoid the lure of crime. The multi-agency approach has contributed significantly to slowing down the number of youths arrested. Youths arrested for shop theft fell by 5% last year. For simple theft, it increased by a smaller 18%, compared to the whopping 90% increase in 2002 and again, for rioting, it increased by 7%, compared to 78% than the year before that. Not all these rioting and other youth crime occurred in entertainment outlets, as Mr Heng suggests. It happened whenever there is an opportunity for crime, when they stared at each other and they did not like the face, they will start a fight. Sometimes, their youthful exuberance got carried away. Mr Ravindran asked if all youth offenders get charged in court. The answer is no.”