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.”
The complete record
Every one of 3,192 lines we hold for Wong Kan Seng, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 5 of 64.
“Mr Hri Kumar has asked what steps the Home Team has taken to ensure coastal security, in light of the terrorist attack in Mumbai. Border security is a major preoccupation of the Home Team. Security at the air and land checkpoints has been significantly enhanced. However, Singapore is an island and maritime security remains our most challenging domain. For normal shipping, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) already requires ships above 500 gross weight tonne to install equipment to comply with the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code. For smaller craft operating in our shores, operated by Singaporeans or craft from regional countries, they are already required to install the HARTS, which is the Harbour Craft Transponder System. Many of these are already installed on these smaller crafts, and MPA can track their movements. However, we need to constantly be on the guard against intrusions by sea. We must treat smugglers as a security threat. If one can smuggle contraband such as duty unpaid cigarettes into Singapore, one can smuggle dangerous items into Singapore. The Police Coast Guard and Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore make use of technology to detect intrusions into our waters. These agencies use advance radar, electro-optics and transponder systems to monitor vessels in our waters. The reality is that zero intrusions can only be achieved if we impose a complete lock-down of Singapore, and we know that that cannot be done because we are an open economy. The best we can do is to deter, detect and intercept infiltrations through timely intelligence, effective border control and swift enforcement action. We will continue to study how we can further enhance our operational capabilities to deter and neutralise such infiltrations. 6.”
“Mr Chairman, I thank all the MPs who have given their views on how to make the Home Team do better. Dr Teo Ho Pin is right that terrorism is indeed a serious threat. The key terrorism threat continues to be posed by the Al Qaeda and its associated groups, including the Jama'ah Al-Islamiyah (JI) and many other militant groups in our region. We are always concerned about self-radicalised individuals, who may operate singly or in small groups, to carry out their violent beliefs. Many Islamist militant groups associate themselves with Al Qaeda and its use of violence to achieve political goals. As long as extremism is taught by radical preachers and schools, or is spread via the Internet, Al Qaeda's appeal will persist. So even if Al Qaeda is dismantled, its ideas could potentially continue to inspire militant groups and individuals the world over. Concerted efforts have to be made to arrest jihadist militancy. As Dr Teo rightly pointed out, how Guantanamo Bay detainees are managed when it is closed, will bear serious security implications for many countries. In January 2009, Al Qaeda in Yemen issued an online statement identifying its new deputy leader as Said Ali al-Shihri. Said was released in 2007 from Guantanamo Bay. Now he has gone back to jihadist terrorism. The same may be expected, if other detainees are released from Guantanamo Bay, such as Hambali, Al Qaeda’s link to JI, and Khaled Sheikh Mohammed, mastermind of the 11th September attacks. I agree with Dr Teo that it would be useful if there is a mechanism to track the movement of detainees. However, this is up to the Obama Administration which is studying how Guantanamo Bay can be closed. Our security agencies will monitor developments and keep in close touch with our foreign counterparts.”
“We will monitor the trends and assess the effectiveness of the enhanced marriage and parenthood package announced last August. It is therefore too soon to review the programme, as Dr Teo suggested. Although the current economic crisis may cause some to think carefully about having children, I hope they do not put off their decision until the good times return. Our total fertility rate in 2008 is still low, at 1.29, unchanged from that in 2007. Even as we make Singapore a better place for families and help immigrants integrate into our society, we should not forget the more than 150,000 Singaporeans who are now overseas. In this economic climate, overseas Singaporeans are anxious about how Singapore is coping and even worried about their own job security. We will continue to engage them and keep them informed of what is happening back home through platforms such as the Singapore Day. Our next Singapore Day will be held in London on 25th April this year. Mr Chairman, Sir, Singapore is facing tough times now. But the problem will blow over one day. Our society is stable and we have the resources to help Singaporeans overcome this crisis. I have no doubt that Singaporeans have the grit and determination to ride this out. The key to our success is our people – a people made up of Singaporeans who are citizens by birth or by choice, of Singaporeans living here and overseas, and of Singaporeans from this generation and the future generations. It is during challenging times that Singapore needs to continue to have a sustainable, cohesive and integrated population. I am confident that we will be able to overcome our current problems and emerge stronger after this economic storm, especially when we face the challenges together as one united people. Caring for the Elderly”
“As Dr Teo pointed out, the People's Association has more than 700 Integration and Naturalisation Champions (INCs) who reach out to new immigrants in our communities through regular house visits, and encourage them to take part in grassroots activities and community work. I understand that the People's Association provides adequate funding support for the INCs. Grassroots organisations can also do their part. Many new Singaporeans are also doing their part to integrate into Singapore. Some take part in activities and share their integration experiences with other new Singaporeans in immigrant associations such as 天府会 (Tianfu Club), 厦门公会 (Amoy Association) and 晋江会馆 (Chin Kang Huay Kuan). Some new citizens also do their part for the local community too. For example, Ms Umayal Lakshmanan, who came to Singapore in 1999 from India and became a new citizen in April last year, reads to children at the Hong Kah North Community Club. Efforts on integration initiated by community organisations are encouraging. But there is scope for the public sector, the private sector and the people sector to work more closely together in a systematic and coordinated way. To this end, a National Integration Council (NIC) will be set up. The NIC will comprise key representatives from the public, private and people sectors to drive the integration agenda forward through a concerted effort. Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports will chair the NIC and he will say more about this during his Ministry's Committee of Supply. The Government will continue to encourage and support Singaporeans to have more babies.”
“For example, in the biomedical sciences industry and others, cited by Mr Banerjee, where there is a shortage of local expertise, highly-skilled foreigners will help us to keep this industry in business and to expand its output from $6 billion in year 2000 to $24 billion in 2007. There are also jobs that locals shun, such as those in construction. 3.45 pm Dr Teo Ho Pin asked for an update on the number of new citizens and permanent residents, our efforts to integrate new residents and the effectiveness of our population measures. Mr Ang Mong Seng asked if we should be using the term "new citizens". In 2008, we welcomed 20,513 new Singapore citizens and 79,167 new PRs, up from 17,334 new citizens and 63,627 new PRs in 2007. This could be due to the good economy and the broadening of the eligibility criteria in 2004. I would like to assure Dr Teo that there has been no change in these criteria since then. Unlike Mr Ang, I think it is all right to use the term "new citizens" for a while. There is no specific significance to the term. It is simply a descriptor of foreigners who have decided to make Singapore their home. Over time, this distinction will be blurred as their children grow up and become like our children. The important issue is not whether they are new citizens or old citizens, but whether they can successfully integrate into our society. When they do, they become one of us. There will be cultural differences between native and new citizens. Integration is a two-way process. Singaporeans need to understand and accept immigrants, while the immigrants need to make the effort to become a part of the Singapore community.”
“Sir, I thank Dr Teo Ho Pin, Mr Gautam Banerjee and Mr Ang Mong Seng for their comments and suggestions on our population strategy. During this economic downturn, it is even more critical that Singaporeans understand the objectives of our population strategy. The primary objective of our population strategy is to serve the interests of Singapore and Singaporeans. Mr Gautam Banerjee talked about the need to retain local talent and supplement them with foreign talent so that Singapore can remain globally competitive. I agree with him. Not enough babies are born in Singapore every year. Without immigration, our population will start to decline by about 2020 just like Japan, whose population shrank in 2005. We need to continue to encourage marriage and parenthood, engage our overseas Singaporeans, and bring in suitable immigrants who can contribute to Singapore. Many Singaporeans are concerned about job security in this period of worldwide economic recession. The Resilience Package, including the Jobs Credit Scheme announced in the Budget speech, aims to help Singaporeans keep their jobs. We can also expect the number of foreigners seeking employment in Singapore to slow down. Some countries, such as the UK and Australia, are limiting foreign manpower. We should not do likewise. As Mr Banerjee mentioned, this would be short-sighted and could ultimately lead to more job losses for Singaporeans. Even in this economic downturn, there are sectors in our economy which still need foreign workers to supplement the local workforce in order to stay in business.”
“A comprehensive training programme for all WRDC staff and GC guards has also been implemented. Three levels of audits have been introduced into WRDC. Firstly, a new Security Section has been set up in WRDC. This Security Section conducts weekly audits of various processes, especially those involving detainees. Secondly, a separate ISD unit conducts independent monthly audits of WRDC. It will also conduct annual comprehensive security reviews of WRDC. The third level of audit is an external audit by the Prisons Department. In December 2008, the Prisons Department conducted its first audit. The Prisons Department will be submitting its findings directly to the Minister for Home Affairs. The COI's recommendation on checks and balances has been implemented in WRDC. For instance, no changes can now be made to audited Standard Operating Procedures without proper security assessment and approval by senior ISD management. The COI's final specific recommendation is that a new Detention Centre be built and located in Changi Prison. This recommendation is in progress. In July 2008, ISD and the Prisons Department started a joint project to study the building of a new Detention Centre in Changi Prison. A series of meetings between both agencies has since been held to work out the details. The project is expected to be completed within five years. APPENDICES”
“A formal framework of communications among the three functional groups has been established. Monthly meetings chaired by the WRDC Superintendent with the GC Detachment Commander and the Operations Group are held to share views and feedback, and to review procedures. This supplements the day-to-day direct communications among the officers. In addition, monthly meetings are held between the WRDC Administration and GC specifically on security issues, in particular to ensure that all security measures are operationalised effectively and to address any feedback. Quarterly meetings at the senior management level of both organisations are also held. WRDC has also developed a simple and clear detainee risk profile system to better communicate detainee risk to the GC guards. The COI made four specific recommendations on exercises, training and audits. The COI recommended that WRDC develops a robust response plan for major incidents and to hold exercises to validate the plans. On training, the COI recommended that WRDC develops a comprehensive training programme for WRDC staff and GC guards deployed at WRDC. On audits, the COI recommended that WRDC institutes a system of regular audits to ensure that instructions are carried out and procedures are adhered to. The COI also recommended that WRDC develops a system of checks and balances in WRDC. These recommendations have been implemented. Exercises are now institutionalised as part of WRDC's operations. For example, in September 2008, WRDC conducted a table-top exercise with GC with regard to the operational response plans for major incidents. As a result of the exercise, relevant adjustments to the plans have been made. WRDC and GC will continue to conduct regular exercises to hone response plans and procedures.”
“The Committee of Inquiry (COI) into Mas Selamat's escape from the Whitley Road Detention Centre (WRDC) assessed that the WRDC’s custodial protocols and procedures over handling of detainees were generally sound. Nonetheless, the COI made 10 specific recommendations to rectify weaknesses that it had observed in operationalising WRDC’s systems and processes. All the specific recommendations have been fully followed up and implemented. The COI made two specific recommendations on command and control in WRDC. The COI recommended that the Internal Security Department (ISD) assumes overall command and control of WRDC, and that ISD must clarify the responsibilities of all officers in WRDC as it is an ISD facility. These recommendations have been implemented. ISD has clearly defined the security responsibilities of ISD and the Gurkha Contingent (GC) in WRDC. ISD is in overall charge of WRDC operations, including all security matters, even as the GC continues to undertake the specific responsibility of guarding the complex. In particular, the WRDC Superintendent, who is an ISD officer, has oversight of the procedures and practices of the GC guards. The COI made three specific recommendations on communication and coordination among the three functional groups in WRDC. These are the WRDC Administration, the GC guards and the ISD Operations Group which is in charge of investigations. The COI recommended that WRDC establishes a formal framework of communications among the three functional groups. It also recommended that WRDC establishes a more structured feedback mechanism. In addition, the COI recommended that WRDC develops a more structured framework to communicate risks posed by certain detainees to GC guards. These recommendations have been implemented.”
“Therefore, all our programmes must ensure that our companies can continue to survive in their business so that Singaporeans can continue to find work. GOVERNMENT-LINKED COMPANIES AND LAS VEGAS SANDS (Investing in business of Las Vegas Sands) 2. Dr Loo Choon Yong asked the Minister for Finance whether any Government-linked company (GLCs) or agency has directly or indirectly invested in the business of Las Vegas Sands, its subsidiaries, associated companies or associated entities.”
“Sir, the Acting Minister for Manpower has dealt with this question about fears of Singaporeans of foreign labour competition. For the Government, Singaporeans’ interests must come first but excluding foreigners from coming here to work when there is a legitimate need for companies to hire them will be against our long-term interests. In fact, for Singaporeans, there are a number of programmes which the Government has instituted to help them. The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme is one that helps to supplement the income of our Singaporean low-wage workers. Our SPUR programme is specifically targeted at Singaporeans to help them upgrade and improve their skills. The Jobs Credit Scheme recently announced by the Finance Minister is one that helps Singaporeans keep their jobs by helping employers to pay part of the Singaporean workers' wage costs. Companies also adopt flexible working hours and arrangements so that workers can continue to work without being retrenched. We have to consider all the factors, in order to keep Singapore's economy competitive. We are not the only one that attracts foreign labour. Many countries also depend on them and, of course, different countries will adopt different policies during difficult times like during this recession. We cannot follow what other countries do blindly. We have to adopt policies which will suit our long-term interests, without sacrificing the interests of Singaporeans. Telling foreigners that they should go first is not going to serve the interests of Singaporeans, particularly when companies continue to need manpower in order to keep their businesses going and when competing with foreign companies and they also need to keep their products cost-effective and so on.”
“The framework includes a series of lessons that increases students' understanding of cyber-bullying and its negative effects, as well as providing information on preventing and dealing with incidents of cyber-bullying. MOE has also been collaborating with various agencies like the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports and the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore to support schools in their efforts to educate both students and parents about cyberwellness. Specifically, MOE partners MHA in the National Committee on Youth Guidance and Rehabilitation, which encourages and creates platforms to transmit the cyberwellness message to youths. Nevertheless, despite the best efforts, there will be cases of cyber-bullying which can go unnoticed by the schools. As cyberspace is pervasive and extends beyond the bounds of the school, parents need to be vigilant about their children's activities, including their on-line activities. Close cooperation between parents and schools can help identify children who are victims of cyber-bullying so that appropriate steps can be taken. We have no plans to enact specific offences related to cyber-bullying at this point in time as we think it is not necessary, but we will monitor the situation. THRESHOLD SPEED ON ARTERIAL ROADS 37. Mr Baey Yam Keng  asked the Minister for Transport does the threshold speed of 20 km/h on arterial roads take into consideration local traffic management provisions, such as traffic lights, and local road configuration, such as bends, that may not be conducive for the optimal speed to be sustained.”
“Cyber-bullying generally refers to the phenomenon of threatening, harassing, embarrassing or isolating a person through the medium of e-mails, blogs, postings on websites, instant messages or text messages. Anyone who uses electronic media as a means of communication is susceptible to it, but victims of cyber-bullying are often youths. We do not have specific laws against cyber-bullying but there is no immunity for acts conducted via the Internet. We can deal with cyber-bullying under our existing laws where an offence is made out. Potential offences in cyber-bullying cases would include criminal intimidation or insulting the modesty of a woman. Cyber-bullies are liable to be prosecuted if such offences are committed. Police does not track cyber-bullying cases. If the cyber-bully is prosecuted in Court, the offender may be tried by the Juvenile Court if he or she is below the age of 16 years at the point of pleading guilty to the offence. There is no necessity to enact specific legislation to exempt such prosecutions from the usual criminal procedure and trial process as there are sufficient safeguards in our laws. For example, the Children and Young Persons Act, or CYPA, provides sufficient safeguards for both the youth offender and victim through provisions on protection of identities of young persons involved in hearings. The Evidence Act also provides for witnesses below the age of 16 years to give evidence through live video or live television links. A key lever to addressing the phenomenon of cyber-bullying is education and awareness. Cyber-bullying is one of the topics covered in the Cyberwellness Framework developed by the Ministry of Education to enhance the schools' cyberwellness education efforts.”
“The Singapore Flyer has also said that it will install new emergency supplies such as water and glucose tablets in the capsules. The Flyer management was reported to have said that they would require time for the backup systems to be put in place and request to reopen only when they are confident that such a situation as occurred on 23rd December 2008 will not happen again. The Police will authorise the reinstatement of the operations when the changes made by the Flyer have been inspected and certified safe by CAB. The certification report would also need to be submitted to Police. The Police will also require to be satisfied that the Flyer has put in place adequate contingency plans, and the Police will work with the relevant technical experts including CAB, SPRING Singapore and SCDF in this respect. CHANGE IN GROSS FLOOR AREA COMPUTATION (Consultation with industry) 18. Er Lee Bee Wah asked the Minister for National Development with the change in computation of gross floor area (such as bay windows and planter boxes) for housing projects, whether the Ministry has carried out any consultation with the building/construction industry before implementing the change in policy.”
“The first priority is to resolve the problem technically so that the Flyer can re-start to allow passengers to evacuate in the usual way. In this instance, the vendor engineers tried to re-start operations but failed. The Singapore Flyer informed the Police of the Flyer's stoppage at about 5.08 pm. When the Flyer management failed to resolve the technical problem, the management contacted the SCDF and Police for assistance. This was at about 7.25 pm. Police arrived at 7.44 pm while SCDF representatives arrived at the Singapore Flyer at about 7.54 pm. On arrival, the SCDF officers observed that the Flyer management had already activated their evacuation protocol to winch passengers down from the capsules located lowest to the ground level. Two passengers had already been evacuated in this manner. Removal of another batch was ongoing. The SCDF officers then went on stand-by to provide rescue assistance and prepared to take command of the operations. After the second batch of passengers was evacuated, the Flyer's engineers managed to re-start the wheel. The engineers had created an ad hoc by-pass to the control system and managed to re-start three of the six motors of the wheel. This was something the engineers had not tried before. The Police and SCDF have completed their investigations into the cause of the incident. We have found no evidence to suggest foul play. The cause of the fire was accidental and due to an electrical malfunction. The Singapore Flyer has said that it will develop two new independent backup systems which would be located in a completely separate location from the existing control system and which will further strengthen the wheel's ability to rotate.”
“The safety standard covers the workmanship of the essential steel and machine components of the Singapore Flyer, and the operational safety performance of the Flyer, such as the adequacy of the locking device on the cabin doors, normal and emergency operations, and braking mechanism. Mdm Cynthia Phua asked why a manual cranking device was not required to be installed on the Singapore Flyer. As we understand from the management of the Singapore Flyer, such a manual system was not made part of its design given the size of the wheel. The Singapore Flyer is the largest of its kind in the world today and its design was approved in accordance with international standards. As a contingency, the Flyer put in place a back-up system to operate the wheel in an emergency. The back-up system kicked in and enabled the wheel to resume operation on three previous occasions namely on 4th December, 11th July and 18th June 2008, when the Flyer stopped for an hour on each occasion. However, if everything fails, the Flyer management has contracted a professional body to conduct a physical passenger evacuation protocol. This was tested and exercised by the Flyer. In the incident on 23rd December 2008, a fire broke out at about 4.50 pm in the Flyer's control room. The fire caused extensive damage to the equipment in the room. This caused the Flyer to stop. Its back-up system also failed as its equipment was also damaged by the fire. This is a scenario that the Flyer management and engineers had not anticipated before. The Singapore Flyer management then activated its emergency protocol which involves bringing in the Flyer's vendor engineers and putting the vendor rescue team on standby.”
“ The Singapore Flyer is required to obtain a Public Entertainments Licence under the Public Entertainments and Meetings Act from the Police. This Act ensures that commercial operators who provide public entertainment are responsible for and have in place measures to safeguard public safety and prevent indecent, offensive or improper activities from taking place on their premises. In February 2008, the Licensing Officer issued a licence to the Singapore Flyer to operate. Apart from obtaining a Fire Safety Certificate from the Singapore Civil Defence Force and a Temporary Occupation Permit from the Building and Construction Authority, the Licensing Officer also required that the Singapore Flyer be certified to have met relevant technical and safety standards. Certification of safety for public use is done by a Conformity Assessment Body, or CAB for short, composed of foreign technical experts recommended by SPRING Singapore, as there is no such technical expertise in Singapore. This approach is to ensure that an independent and objective body provides sound assessment on safety standards that the Singapore Flyer has implemented. This is similar to the regulatory regimes in Germany and the UK where CABs and third party assessment bodies are also used to certify the safety of amusement rides. CAB based its assessment on a safety standard known as the EN13814 Standard which is widely used in Europe. CAB's technical experts are from the company TUV-SUD, an established German company which is a leading global provider of technical services.”
“To improve employment conditions and regulatory compliance, SIRD works closely with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and Union of Security Employees. Briefing sessions and forums have been conducted to educate both security guard agencies and their officers on our employment laws and regulatory requirements, and to share best practices. Coupled with proactive enforcement, working conditions in the industry have improved over time. The various efforts outlined above have borne fruit. Since the introduction of mandatory training in 2005, there has been an improvement in the education profile of security officers. The proportion of security officers with at least GCE 'O'\'N' levels has increased from about 37% to 43%. There has also been an increase in the proportion of younger persons in the industry. The proportion of security officers below the age of 39 has increased from 29% to 33%. In the span of a few years, the private security industry has made significant strides in raising its professional standards and attracting better qualified officers. STEEL LIFT SHAFTS (Comparison) 2. Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked the Minister for National Development (a) what are the disadvantages of steel lift shafts as compared to ferroconcrete lift shafts; and (b) what has the Ministry done to mitigate these disadvantages.”
“The private security industry plays a key role in our national security framework, in areas such as protecting commercial premises and assisting with large scale events. Over the past three years, there has been a high demand for security officers. The industry has grown significantly to meet this demand. Security guard agencies currently employ about 28,000 guards compared to about 18,000 at the beginning of 2005, an increase of more than 50%. These numbers do not include auxiliary police officers from CERTIS CISCO and AETOS. The Security Industry Regulatory Department (SIRD) of the Singapore Police Force adopts a multi-pronged strategy to enhance the attractiveness of the sector. The strategy involves enhancing professionalism within the industry, promoting security awareness amongst buyers and encouraging compliance with regulatory requirements and employment laws. I will elaborate on each of these elements in turn. To enhance the professionalism of security officers, a set of formal competencies and skill standards was made mandatory for security officers in June 2005. Today, all security officers are required to undergo and pass two mandatory training modules under the Security Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) system, which was introduced in 2007. The number of participants in the Security WSQ in the first nine months of 2008 was 7,621, exceeding the 7,378 who signed up in the whole of 2007. SIRD has also introduced an annual grading system to promote security awareness amongst buyers. The grading system provides an open and objective assessment of security guard agencies, causing buyers to be more discerning and motivating security guard agencies to improve their professional standards.”
“As such, the Prosecution applied for a discharge not amounting to an acquittal, reserving the right to reinstate proceedings against Mr Fernandez should new evidence be uncovered subsequently. The District Court granted this application on 21st July 2008. Mr Fernandez subsequently filed an appeal to the High Court that was heard on 3rd October 2008, seeking a full acquittal on the charge. Taking into consideration the fact that Evtec, despite given ample time, had failed to produce any evidence to substantiate their claim that Mr Fernandez had driven the vehicle in question, the prosecution did not object to the appeal. Mr Fernandez was then granted a discharge amounting to acquittal. This is a rare case and happened because the owner of the vehicle, when challenged by the named driver, took some time but still failed to furnish proof that the driver had indeed driven the vehicle. Hence, it dragged on for several months. Nevertheless, once a reasonable doubt was created as to the identity of the driver, Traffic Police did not proceed with the case. APPENDICES Section Name: ORAL ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS Title: HIKE IN ELECTRICITY TARIFFS Filename : Chart to Q7to10-Spot Fuel Oil Price MP Name: The Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry (Mr S Iswaran)”
“He appeared in court on 10th September 2007 to answer the charge but denied committing the offence. This led to a Pre-Trial Conference being fixed on 26th September. From 10th September 2007 to 17th January 2008, Traffic Police expended much time and effort to investigate the matter. Investigations were however hampered as the company’s staff failed to keep several appointments with Traffic Police. Eventually, Traffic Police did record statements from Mr Fernandez, Evtec’s management and employees, In addition, Traffic Police requested the company to produce relevant records to show that Mr Fernandez was the driver. Evtec claimed that it had installed a new computerised vehicle management system around that period and informed the investigator that the company needed more time to retrieve the relevant information as well as to conduct their own internal investigations. In the end, however, the company could not furnish any documentary evidence to show that Mr Fernandez was the driver. Through counsel, Mr Fernandez then made two representations to Traffic Police on 15th February and 19th June 2008 for the charge to be withdrawn. Further adjournments were thus necessary for Traffic Police to forward the Investigation Papers to AGC for its consideration. Based on AGC’s assessment, the available evidence set out in the Investigation Papers was insufficient to prove conclusively that Mr Fernandez was the driver of the offending vehicle. Neither was the available evidence able to support Mr Fernandez’s contention that he was not the driver. AGC advised that further investigations were needed.”
“When a traffic offence is detected, Traffic Police will request the driver’s particulars from the vehicle owner. A summons notice offering to compound the traffic offence and stating the relevant composition amount would then be issued to the driver. If the driver decides not to accept the offer of composition, he can contest the charge in court. In this case, a vehicle registered under Evtec Management Services Pte Ltd was captured by Traffic Police’s speed camera along Yishun Ave 2 on 11th February 2007. A notice of the traffic offence was sent to the company. The company submitted the particulars of Mr Paul Antony Fernandez as the driver of the vehicle. Based on this input, Traffic Police issued a summons to Mr Fernandez with an offer to compound the offence for $130 with four demerit points. Mr Fernandez was also informed that if he failed to take up the composition offer, the matter would be proceeded with in court. Mr Fernandez subsequently appealed to the Traffic Police on 23rd April 2007, claiming that he was not the driver. As he had no conclusive proof of this, Mr Fernandez was advised to check with his employer who had given a statement in evidence that he was the driver. Mr Fernandez sent a second appeal to Traffic Police on 5th June 2007, requesting to view the photograph capturing the offending vehicle first as he wanted to be fully satisfied that he was the driver before settling the composition amount. Mr Fernandez was shown the photograph at the Traffic Police Headquarters on 28th July 2007 which captured the licence plate and positively identified the vehicle as belonging to the company but did not capture the driver’s identity. Mr Fernandez subsequently did not accept the offer of composition.”
“Separate chutes for recyclables will also be provided in four new HDB blocks at Fernvale Vista at Seng Kang; at the new eco-precinct Treelodge@Punggol; and at the first two HDB projects under the new generation public housing in the regenerated Dawson estate. These projects would allow HDB to ascertain the additional costs that come with providing the separate recycling chutes, as well as further assess residents’ receptiveness and monitor the performance of the system, before considering the large-scale implementation of separate recycling chutes. In the meantime, we encourage residents to make use of the recycling bags or recycling bins provided in HDB estates to recycle waste. Column No : 659 VACANT STALLS IN MARKETS/FOOD CENTRES (Number) 30. Mr Lim Biow Chuan asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources how many stalls are vacant and available for rental in all the markets/food centres in Singapore. Assoc. Prof. Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: Vacant stalls in markets and hawker centres managed by the National Environment Agency are offered for rent to the general public on a monthly basis. The application is either by tender or by direct application under the Walk-in Scheme. There are currently (as at 1st October 2008) a total of 341 vacant stalls that are available for rental, which is about 2% of the total number of stalls in markets and hawker centres. Column No : 659 FOREIGN DOMESTIC WORKERS (Review of security bond conditions) 31. Mr Zaqy Mohamad asked the Acting Minister for Manpower whether his Ministry plans to review the conditions of the security bond for employers of foreign domestic workers (FDW), particularly conditions where the employer is liable for individual acts such as the FDW running away or becoming pregnant.”
“NEA has also been providing households with convenient access to recycling receptacles. Under the National Recycling Programme (NRP) for HDB and landed estates, residents are provided with recycling bags or bins by the Public Waste Collectors (PWCs) to store their recyclables. These recyclables are then collected door-to-door by the PWCs every fortnight on scheduled days. In addition, about 1,600 sets of centralised recycling receptacles have been installed in all HDB estates last year. Residents who do not wish to wait for the fortnightly collection can deposit their recyclables into these receptacles at their convenience. We are also amending the Environmental Public Health Act to mandate the provision of recycling receptacles for condominiums and private apartments. The amended Act will come into effect on 1st November 2008. Upon full implementation in 2009, all households in Singapore will have convenient access to recycling receptacles. In addition to the existing recycling infrastructure for households, NEA and HDB are conducting pilot trials on the installation of separate chutes for recyclables in some HDB blocks. A block of HDB flats in Choa Chu Kang was retrofitted to convert an unused refuse chute into a chute for recyclables. The trial at Choa Chu Kang has shown that the recycling participation rate of households in the block increased from 67% in December 2006 to 93% in July 2007. The amount of recyclables collected through the separate chute was 850 kg per month, which was more than eight-times higher than the typical amount of recyclables collected from a block of HDB flats (average of 100 kg per month). A survey of the residents showed that most of them are motivated to recycle more waste due to the greater convenience.”
“As I have mentioned, the Police is responsible for enforcing the traffic rule prohibiting cycling or riding on footways, with a focus on taking action against reckless cycling or riding under the Penal Code. The cycling wardens deployed at Tampines for the trial study was a grassroots initiative. Their role is to provide advice and reminders to cyclists on the drive in that town to share the footways with pedestrians. If necessary, they may also report incidents of reckless cycling to the Police. The Police have a close working relationship with the Town Councils and NParks and will also leverage on existing platforms with RCs and CCCs to ensure that the efforts of all parties are effective in reducing indiscriminate use of vehicles on footways. Column No : 657 SEPARATE RECYCLING CHUTES IN HDB FLATS 29. Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources in view of the need to get greater community participation in recycling, (a) what is the outcome of the pilot test project to provide separate chutes at every HDB flat for recyclables; (b) whether the Government will be implementing the project on a wide-scale basis and, if so, what is the schedule for implementation and the estimated cost to the Government; and (c) whether such chutes are included in the design of HDB blocks which are currently under construction. Assoc. Prof. Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: Dr Lim Wee Kiak has raised an important point on the need to garner greater community participation in recycling. The National Environment Agency (NEA) has been actively reaching out to the community, including households, schools, corporate and grassroots organizations, to raise awareness of the importance of recycling and inculcate the habit of recycling as part of our daily life.”
“Under the Road Traffic Rules, vehicles including bicycles and motorcycles are prohibited on footways. The only exemption to this prohibition is at Tampines, where a trial to allow cyclists on footways is ongoing. In 2007, Police issued more than 630 summonses to cyclists and motorcyclists for riding on footways. In the same year, Police also issued 210 summonses to cyclists who were riding in a disorderly manner. These offences are usually compounded by payment of $20. In addition, a cyclist or a motorcyclist who rides in a manner that endangers others can be prosecuted for rash riding on a public way under Section 279 of the Penal Code. He may also be prosecuted under Sections 336 and 337 of the Penal Code for rashly or negligently endangering human life or the personal safety of others. The punishment for these offences includes an imprisonment term of up to one year, or a fine up to $5,000, or both. These provisions apply to cyclists or motorcyclists who ride recklessly or indiscriminately on any public way, including footways, park connectors, car parks and HDB void decks. The Traffic Police has also worked with grassroots organisations and the Singapore Amateur Cycling Association to introduce several road safety education measures to promote responsible cycling. On the whole, the current situation is under control. Accidents between pedal cyclists and pedestrians on footways which cause injuries are rare. Over the past three years, there were only two accidents causing slight injuries which were reported to the Police. The Member has also asked about the role of the Police vis-a-vis volunteers, Town Councils and NParks in dealing with errant cyclists. Let me reiterate that the Police, and not civilian volunteers, are responsible for enforcement.”
“Mr Zaqy Mohamad asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs (a) what measures are put in place to keep pathways and walkways safe for children and the elderly from the indiscriminate use of bicycles and motorcycles; (b) whether the there are plans to put in place formal regulations or enforcement officials, other than the dependence on volunteer citizens to monitor the situation; and (c) whether there are also plans to coordinate enforcement efforts with the Town Councils and NParks for pathways that are linked to areas under their responsibilities.”
“Public assistance in loansharking cases remains strong. On their part, some local communities have embarked on CSSP projects to complement Police efforts. Police takes pro-active steps to ensure that its resources are optimally deployed to deal with loansharks and the crime situation generally. That is why in 2005, CID set up a dedicated Anti-Unlicensed Moneylending Task Force that has worked closely with the six Land Divisions to tackle the problem on the ground, a key objective being to dismantle loanshark syndicates. At the last sitting, I informed the House that CID had recently reorganised its branches, including the AUML Task Force, which previously dealt with specific crime domains, to deal more holistically with all forms of syndicated criminal groups. This allows CID to better respond to the evolving crime scene. Whilst we have made some progress, the problem of illegal money lending is not easy to solve. Loansharks evolve their modus operandi to elude detection and apprehension. Organised syndicates are difficult to break down, as the kingpins rarely expose themselves. Targeting runners and those who harass others disrupts but does not destroy the organisation, since this group of people is easily replaced. Breaking down the entire organisation is a painstaking and laborious process. Whatever the economic situation, there will always be desperate borrowers who borrow from unlicensed money lenders. Police will continue to monitor the situation closely, and if necessary, introduce further measures to deal with the problem. Column No : 655 USE OF PATHWAYS AND WALKWAYS (Implementation of safety measures) 28.”
“Since 2005, the Singapore Police Force has employed a multi-pronged strategy in dealing with the loansharking situation. Penalties under the Moneylenders Act have been enhanced. Assets of convicted loansharks can now be confiscated under the Corruption, Drug Trafficking and Other Serious Crimes (Confiscation of Benefits) Act. Passports of loansharks can be cancelled and a 10-year travel ban imposed to prevent them from running syndicates outside of Singapore. Loansharks can also be detained under the Criminal Law (Temporary Provisions) Act. Police has enlisted the help of external parties such as SingPost to assist with the detection of loanshark activities. Since April this year, persons who apply to update their home address in their NRICs are required to furnish proof that they are staying at that address to minimise the likelihood of borrowers giving false addresses to loansharks. With all these measures in place, the situation has shown some improvement. In the first half of 2008, 4,755 loansharking and related harassment cases were reported, a drop of 9.3% from the 5,240 cases over the same period last year. The number of harassment cases is likely to decline for a second year running since the number of reported cases peaked in 2006. There have also been more arrests for loansharking activities. In the first half of 2008, Police arrested 210 persons, compared to 137 persons arrested in the same period last year. In May this year, Police dismantled a large syndicate, arrested 17 people and seized more than $200,000, the largest seizure of cash since 2005. Tapping community resources is another prong in our strategy. In this regard, publicity campaigns have been launched to advise the public against irresponsible borrowing.”
“Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked the Minister for National Development (a) how many sites are currently being used to house foreign workers and where are these sites located; (b) how many more sites are required and what are the new areas being considered; and (c) which constituencies do not have any foreign dormitories at all.”
“In addition, the SB this year has made special efforts to engage the different ethnic groups and senior citizens by including guides trained to conduct tours in Malay, Tamil and even Chinese dialects such as Hokkien and Cantonese. There are also English, Mandarin and Japanese tour guides. As at end September 2008, the Biennale has attracted a total visitorship of about 20,000 for the three main exhibition venues. This is an encouraging sign as the figure is comparable with that of SB 2006 for the same duration, although the latter had more exhibits and exhibition venues. Visitors to the Biennale this year have commented that "... this time, the pieces are more imaginative and inspiring ... (and) also more convenient now with three locations ..." and "... the works set you thinking, about how they do it and their creativity." The event is also enjoying good media coverage, both locally and in the international media. Many overseas journalists (eg, from Indonesia, Dubai, India, Russia) who were earlier in town for the Formula 1 Grand Prix had also visited and reported on the Biennale in their media overseas. MICA would be happy to provide a more comprehensive update on the SB 2008 at the end of its run. I would also like to assure Dr Lateef that we will continue to review the organisation and form of the Biennale to ensure that its programme and delivery contribute meaningfully to our cultural landscape. This includes consulting closely with the Biennale's partners and supporters, as well as taking into consideration the audience needs and public feedback received for the event. HOUSING OF FOREIGN WORKERS (Number of sites) 4.”
“The SB 2008 continues the general programming direction of SB 2006, featuring predominantly Asian artists, and showcasing the best that Singapore and the region have to offer. Similar to the 2006 edition, the SB 2008 provides excellent opportunities for Singapore artists, curators and art businesses to exchange and collaborate with the international visual arts community. Many of the Singaporean artists who exhibited in the 2006 Biennale have been selected for other international exhibitions. The current crop of Singaporean artists has also garnered a lot of international interest. The 2008 Biennale has incorporated useful learning points from the inaugural Biennale experience in 2006. For example, taking into account the general feedback that SB 2006's 19 exhibition venues were too dispersed and challenging for both curators and visitors, the 2008 Biennale is more accessible with artworks exhibited at centrally located venues such as the former City Hall, South Beach Development and the Central Promontory Site. Outdoor exhibits have also been installed at the Esplanade Bridge, Raffles City and the Singapore Flyer to bring about greater artistic vibrancy and excitement to the streets. There is also a new arts educational and outreach initiative under the SB 2008 aimed at strengthening engagement in the arts among the young. For example, the Kids' Biennale has successfully attracted more than 8,000 students from 35 schools. SB 2008 is also extending its reach to children with special needs as part of the objective of making visual arts accessible to everyone in society.”
“The table below shows the number of CNCCs applied for and issued for the past 10 years: Year No. of CNCC Applications No. of CNCC Issued to SingaporeCitizens No. of CNCC Issued to SingaporePRs No. of CNCC Issued to Foreigners 1998 4996 2358 721 1958 1999 6477 2570 1051 2761 2000 9000 3370 1385 4001 2001 9629 3424 1246 4657 2002 10908 4374 1476 4820 2003 10138 4735 1458 3706 2004 12250 5725 1891 4324 2005 11337 5304 1914 4071 2006 10548 4590 1915 4071 2007 12707 5166 2367 4716 NB: For some years, the number of CNCC applications is smaller than the number of CNCC issued. This is due to the processing time of two weeks resulting in some December CNCC applications processed only in January the following year. SINGAPORE BIENNALE (Update on performance) 3. Dr Fatimah Lateef asked the Minister for Information, Communications and the Arts if he will provide an update on the performance of this year's Biennale as compared to the inaugural Biennale held two years ago. Dr Lee Boon Yang: I would like to thank Dr Lateef for her interest in the Singapore Biennale (SB), which is into its second edition this year. The SB 2008, as Singapore's premier international contemporary visual arts show, is important in furthering our vision to position Singapore as a culturally vibrant international arts hub. SB 2008 continues to have a strong focus on community outreach and engagement, with programmes to reach out to Singaporeans and encourage appreciation for and participation in contemporary visual arts. As the SB 2008 is still ongoing, it is too early for us to assess the public response and outcome for the event. Nonetheless, MICA can provide a broad comparison of the 2006 and 2008 editions at this point in time.”
“We will ensure that there remains a sizeable group of Singaporeans which will form the core of our society – people who are here for the long haul, who will stand fast in times of difficulty, but who will also be first to enjoy the fruits of our success. CERTIFICATES OF NO CRIMINAL CONVICTION (Numbers issued) 2. Mr Siew Kum Hong asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs for each of the past ten years, how many Certificates of No Criminal Conviction were issued to Singapore citizens, Singapore permanent residents, and foreigners who were not Singapore permanent residents.”
“This would have serious repercussions on our ability to maintain our standard of living. Encouraging immigration is therefore a key strategy which we must continue to pursue. Beyond population imperatives, immigrants inject new ideas and dynamism into society. Many countries, such as the United States and Australia, have benefited greatly from having absorbed a diverse group of immigrants. Singapore itself is an immigrant society and we would not be where we are today if not for the contributions of our immigrants over the years. In today's globalised world, human capital is extremely mobile, particularly the talented and driven. Our current economic and social conditions make us an attractive immigration destination for many nationalities around the world. It is important that we leverage on our strengths and continue to attract talented people to settle here, as we drive towards building a knowledge economy. To restrict the number of foreign talents who are prepared to immigrate would be counter-productive and not in our long term interests. At the same time, we recognise that some Singaporeans may feel threatened by the number of immigrants that Singapore is absorbing. This is a natural human response. However, Singaporeans should be assured that this Government will always consider the interests of Singaporeans first. This is reflected in the way our policies are crafted, from healthcare and housing to education and other social policies. While we welcome immigrants to our shores, our own people are always closest to our hearts.”
“As of June 2008, Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents (PRs) account for 75% of our total population, with Citizens making up 65%. The balance, our non-resident population, comprises transient foreigners working, studying and living in Singapore. By far, foreign manpower accounts for the largest proportion of our non-resident population. These are foreigners who are here on a transient basis to take up jobs in sectors which our local manpower is not able to fill. The size of our foreign workforce is not fixed. It depends on the state of our economy, and also on other global factors. Over the last few years, there has been a strong demand for manpower in sectors such as construction and marine. Hence, the size of our foreign workforce has increased. Without them, our industries would have been handicapped and we would not have been able to achieve robust levels of growth. Overall, our flexible foreign workforce policies have enabled us to maintain a critical competitive edge over competing economies by allowing companies to expand their workforce quickly to capitalise on opportunities, at the same time creating more and better jobs for our citizens. To survive and prosper as a nation, we need to maintain a core group of Singaporeans committed to our long term future. The main challenge is our low fertility rate. Over the last decade, we have introduced measures to encourage Singaporeans to get married and have children. These measures have helped to facilitate a more pro-family environment, but despite this, we do not expect our total fertility rate to reach the replacement rate of 2.1. Our resident population and workforce would decline rapidly if we close our doors to immigrants or substantially reduce inflows.”
“Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: Stallholders who are unable to pay their rents are given ample opportunities and time to pay their arrears. These include extending the period of payment and allowing the stallholders to pay their arrears by instalments. The stallholders will not be evicted so long as the arrears are paid up on time. Due to the above measures, there are therefore very few instances where stallholders had been evicted because they were unable to pay rent. In the past five years, there were only two cases. One case was in 2004 and the other in 2005, and the amount of arrears owed by these stallholders were about $14,400 and $31,200, respectively. Instalment plans were offered to the stallholders in both cases, but they had defaulted on their instalment payments. NEA has to be stringent in chasing for arrears as these are public monies which need to be accountable to the public. I would like to assure the House that evicting the stallholders will only be exercised as a last resort, because we recognise that it may bring undue hardship to the stallholders who rely on the stalls for their livelihood. APPENDICES”
“The Police do not collate figures for acts of mischief and other criminal offences specifically related to en-bloc sales, as it is not practical to keep track of the estates or locations involved in en-bloc sale projects. To deter such offenders, the Police work closely with residents, grassroots organisations and other agencies to enhance the safety of neighbourhoods. For example, the Police issued a crime prevention advisory to the residents of Laguna Park (a private condominium along Marine Parade Road where acts of mischief had occurred) in July this year, encouraging the residents to play their part by adopting preventive measures, such as parking their vehicles in well-lit designated areas, installing anti-theft alarms and covering their parked vehicles with canvas sheets. Residents were also encouraged to form watch groups to patrol car parks, and to alert the Police should they come across suspicious characters loitering at car parks or in the neighbourhood. I would like to assure the public that all reported cases made to Police are viewed seriously and appropriate follow-up actions would be taken to establish if an offence is disclosed and the identity of the offender, regardless of whether the report is in relation to an en-bloc sale or otherwise. WRITTEN ANSWER TO QUESTION EVICTION OF STALLHOLDERS (Statistics) 1. Ms Irene Ng Phek Hoong asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources for each of the past five years (a) how many stallholders in hawker centres and markets have been evicted from their stalls and their licences removed as a result of their inability to pay rent; and (b) what is the average arrears of those evicted. Assoc. Prof.”
“They hope that political pressure will force the authorities to accede to their demands to continuing staying in Singapore. ICA has rightly decided that such persons are undesirable and that they should leave. Foreigners who work, study or live here are expected to respect the law and local sensitivities, no less than Singaporeans who are abroad are obliged to observe the laws and respect the customs and sensitivities of the countries they happen to be in. Some of these Myanmese individuals have enjoyed education subsidies and other benefits but have chosen to repay this with disrespect for our laws and to defy the authorities. Those who have been asked to leave were allowed to remain in Singapore until the expiry of their present immigration passes. They are free to leave for any country of their choice. VANDALISM AND CRIMINAL OFFENCES RELATED TO EN-BLOC SALES 24. Assoc. Prof. Kalyani K Mehta asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs in light of recent media reports of vandalism and other criminal offences related to en-bloc sales, if he will provide a breakdown of (i) the total number of such offences reported islandwide for each year from January 2005 to June 2008; and (ii) the type of offence committed.”
“The recent immigration actions taken by ICA against a few Myanmar nationals were not the result of political pressure or requests from the Myanmar Government. The persons referred to by Ms Olsen are a handful of Myanmese who, over the past one year, had persistently defied our laws in pursuing their political agenda. In one incident, a group of them decided to stage an illegal street protest outside the Orchard Parade Hotel during the ASEAN Summit held in Singapore last November. It was deliberately held near the ASEAN Summit venue to court public and media attention. Their unlawful behaviour was an unnecessary distraction to our security forces and could have compromised the security arrangements for the Summit delegates, some of whom were heads of ASEAN governments. This group of Myanmese nationals also repeatedly refused to heed Police's advice to use lawful channels to express their views, and proceeded to stage demonstrations knowing that they were not permitted to do so. Police has investigated the incidents staged by these Myanmese individuals. In consultation with AGC, Police exercised leniency and administered stern warnings in lieu of prosecuting the offenders in court. Our laws apply to everyone, whether local or foreign. While the vast majority of the Myanmese community were law abiding and expressed their views in a lawful manner, this small group of Myanmese nationals chose to break the law and yet defiantly demand the right to stay in Singapore as an entitlement. They have tried to politicise the issue through the media and through uninformed foreign groups, in the process distorting the actions to remove them from Singapore as being politically motivated.”
“The Certificate of No Criminal Conviction (CNCC) is issued by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Singapore Police Force. The document certifies that the applicant does not have any criminal convictions in Singapore within a stipulated period of time. CNCCs are issued to Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents and foreigners above the age of 16 and who have resided in Singapore for more than six months. They are requested for a variety of reasons, including applying for permanent residency rights in other countries (68% of applications), further studies and employment overseas (21% of applications) and child adoption, pre-marriage procedures and other reasons (12% of applications). The table below provides the number of CNCCs applied for and issued for the past 10 years: Year Total No. of CNCC Applications (A) Total No. of CNCC Issued (B) 1998 4996 5037 1999 6477 6382 2000 9000 8756 2001 9629 9327 2002 10908 10670 2003 10138 9899 2004 12250 11940 2005 11337 11289 2006 10548 10576 2007 12707 12249 NB: For some years, the number of CNCC applications is smaller than the number of CNCCs issued. This is due to the processing time of two weeks, resulting in some December CNCC applications processed only in January the following year. CONSTRUCTION OF 'CAT CAFES' IN UNUSED AREAS OF HDB ESTATES 3. Mr Siew Kum Hong asked the Minister for National Development whether there is a policy against the construction of "cat cafes", being small structures used for feeding community cats in unused areas of HDB estates, away from HDB blocks, car parks and bin centres, funded by volunteers who feed the cats themselves and also ensure that the cats being fed are sterilised.”
“In the course of police investigations into a reported case of sexual assault at Clementi Woods Park on 18th June 2008, body samples were taken from foreign workers working at nearby construction sites. This involved taking blood samples after the workers had voluntarily given their consent. The legal basis for this is found in section 13D of the Registration of Criminals Act, which provides that a person may give a body sample, which includes a blood sample, on a voluntary basis if the person was present at the scene of a crime when it was committed, or if the person is being questioned in connection with the investigation of a crime. CERTIFICATES OF NO CRIMINAL CONVICTION 2. Mr Siew Kum Hong asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs for each of the past 10 years, how many Certificates of No Criminal Conviction had been applied for and issued.”
“The situation is exacerbated by borrowers being recruited to join loanshark syndicates as runners to discharge their debts. Loansharks are constantly evolving their modus operandi to evade Police detection. Transaction risks and costs to the syndicates have been reduced over the years, as the technology for communication and money transfers has proliferated. Syndicates can relocate their operations overseas to evade detection and arrests but continue to supervise local operations through the Internet and Internet telephony. But let me assure Mrs Josephine Teo that we will continue to put pressure on loanshark syndicates through painstaking investigation and by working with the community to enhance security vigilance on the ground. As I had indicated in the Committee of Supply debate earlier this year, we are also studying additional measures which we will not hesitate to implement, if necessary, to counter this scourge. ROAD CAVE-INS FROM MRT TUNNELLING WORKS 53. Mr Cedric Foo Chee Keng asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide the number of road cave-in incidents from MRT tunnelling works since 2005; and (b) whether a safety review has been conducted to prevent future cave-in incidents.”
“There were 8,174, 9,912 and 9,364 cases of loanshark-related harassment reported in 2005, 2006 and 2007 respectively. This includes repeat reports made by a household unit and reports made by several household units of the same incident. As every case is different, Police does not calculate the average time taken to solve loanshark-related cases. The time taken varies depending on the circumstances and complexity of the case. There are cases, though not often, where Police officers arrest the offender when the crime is being committed. In other cases, there are few leads and more time is required. The lack of cooperation of borrowers and the involvement of syndicates, sometimes with directing elements based abroad, adds to the complexity of investigations. Such cases will take much longer to solve. In summary, by their nature, loanshark harassment cases are not easy to solve. Unless the perpetrators are caught in the act, there are often few leads that Police can follow-up on. This is especially so in situations involving innocent victims of harassment who have no idea who the loansharks are. Nevertheless, Police assures me that it will press on resolutely to counter this scourge that poses a threat to Singaporeans' sense of safety and security. We continue to monitor the situation closely. Indeed, since 2005, we upped the ante by introducing several tough measures, encouraged community vigilance and enhanced security features in residential areas. Whilst these measures have ensured that the situation does not get worse, the number of harassment cases is still high and should be reduced. Some loanshark runners even harass, vandalise and intimidate home-owners who are unconnected to the borrower or purported borrower, other than being a neighbour.”
“All large public buildings are also to ensure that the ambient indoor air temperature is maintained within the range of 22.5 to 25.5 degrees Celsius, and agencies should seek to maintain temperatures as high as comfort level allows. In addition, to ensure that the chiller systems in our large Government buildings perform efficiently, we will progressively require them to meet a minimum standard of 4.7 for COP. A few of our buildings are already able to meet this standard. For example, in 2007, the Environment Building increased the COP of its chiller system to 5.0, and realised actual savings of 464MWh of electricity, or S$78,000, in 2007. The MOM building is in the process of implementing the measures identified by their energy audit as well. They are expected to improve the COP of their chiller system from 3.2 to 5.2, with estimated annual savings of over 1,300MWh of electricity, or cost savings of S$339,000. NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF SINGAPORE AND NANYANG TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY (Supply of student hostels) 23. Er Lee Bee Wah asked the Minister for Education in view of the rising student enrolment (a) how many student hostels are there in the National University of Singapore and the Nanyang Technological University; (b) whether these hostels are sufficient to meet the demand; and (c) whether there are plans to build more hostels.”
“Thus, it is important that developers, building owners and designers put in place adequate systems when the buildings are constructed. Lastly, besides reducing the air-conditioning load to a minimum with an appropriate envelope, and reducing over-cooling by implementing adequate systems, we have to look into how the air-conditioning can be provided in the most efficient way, namely, by implementing an efficient chiller system. The chiller system, which comprises the chiller plant, pumps and cooling towers, may be poorly designed or implemented, resulting in low efficiency. The efficiency of chiller systems can be measured using an indicator called the coefficient of performance (COP). The COP of the chiller system for an average building in Singapore is estimated to be about 3.0. If best practices and commercially available technology are deployed, a COP of more than 4.7 can be achieved, with potential energy savings of 35% to 50%. To help our private sector reduce their energy wastage from air-conditioning, the NEA is working with other relevant agencies, such as BCA, on a package of incentives and measures, aimed at building up the capability of our developers, engineers, architects and building managers in the area of building energy management. This will help improve the way air-conditioning systems are designed and operated in buildings. The public sector is also taking the lead on energy efficiency. All large air-conditioned Government office buildings, as well as polytechnics and ITEs, will conduct energy audits to improve their energy efficiency by March 2010. As of end July 2008, 17 such Government buildings have completed their audits, with eight having already implemented the recommendations to achieve S$2.6 million in annual savings.”
“Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: We share Mr Seah's concerns about energy wastage. Yet at the same time, we do not want to be overly prescriptive and impose rules on all formal Government functions. Instead, we will leave it to the respective organisers to exercise due discretion, and dress-down when it is appropriate. However, as a nation we must address the larger question of how we can save electricity effectively. We must examine the root causes of high energy consumption and adopt cost-effective solutions to reduce excessive energy losses. There are three main causes of such losses relating to air-conditioning: Firstly, energy wastage may be due to an inadequate building envelope. An adequate envelope will minimise heat gain into the building interior and prevent cold air from escaping. This correspondingly reduces the energy consumption from air-conditioning. Since 1979, a minimum standard for thermal performance of the envelope of non-residential air-conditioned buildings has been put in place by BCA, and revised in 2004. Earlier this year, a minimum standard for residential buildings was put in place as well. Secondly, buildings may be over-cooled. Generally, this refers to setting the temperature for the central air-conditioning system of the building below the recommended comfort zone of 22.5 to 25.5 degrees Celsius. As a heuristic, lowering the indoor room temperature by 1 degree Celsius through air-conditioning can increase the electricity consumption of air-conditioning by about 3%. To reduce over-cooling, buildings must be equipped with the proper control, monitoring and air-handling systems required for the uniform cooling of the building. Otherwise, parts of the building may be over-cooled, while other parts may be too warm.”
“Besides the traditional career fairs at JCs, Polytechnics, ITEs and secondary schools, a recent innovative initiative was the introduction of a Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Competition for students which leverages on the popular TV drama "CSI". As remuneration is a key consideration for job applicants, we had reviewed the remuneration package for our Police Officers as part of our overall review of the Home Affairs Uniformed Service (HUS) Schemes last year to ensure that we stay competitive. To address the issue of retention, we will be paying a retention bonus this year to our junior officers with the specific aim of retaining these young officers in the first eight years of service. With these changes, we hope to attract and retain our younger officers. Beyond remuneration, the SPF has improved its career development framework in recognition of the fact that many POs leave service because of higher career aspirations. With more officers taking up degree courses to upgrade themselves, there are stronger aspirations today to become a Senior Officer. To meet these aspirations, the SPF has, since 2007, enhanced its career development framework to allow more appointments and promotions into the SOs ranks for deserving POs. In summary, despite challenging labour market conditions, SPF and MHA will continue to pursue an aggressive recruitment and retention strategy so as to remain competitive and attractive as a choice employer. POWER CONSERVATION ("No-jackets" rule for formal Government functions) 22. Mr Seah Kian Peng asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources in light of the extensive use of air-conditioning in Singapore, whether his Ministry will consider promoting a "no jackets" rule for formal Government functions to save electricity. Assoc. Prof.”
“For graduate Senior Police Officers (SOs), recruitment and retention has remained stable and strong despite the tighter labour market. For Junior Police Officers (JOs), however, recruitment and retention has been adversely affected by the tighter labour market. Since 2004, Singapore Police Force (SPF) has had more Police Officers (POs) leaving the service; from 221 in 2004 to 332 in 2007, a 50% increase. As for recruitment, the numbers dropped initially in 2005 (from 419 in 2004 to 350 in 2005), but has since improved (350 in 2006 to 407 in 2007). Despite the stronger recruitment numbers, SPF is still unable to meet its recruitment needs to address the higher demands placed on the Force. Apart from the threat from terrorism, the growth of Singapore as a Meeting, Incentive, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) has resulted in more high-profile meetings and large-scale events, such as the F1 and the Youth Olympics, being hosted here. To ensure the safety and security of such events, SPF has had to develop new capabilities with a resultant increase in manpower. To meet this demand in a tight labour market, SPF will have to adapt quickly to increase recruitment and retention. Building on the recruitment momentum generated over the past three years, the SPF launched its new recruitment campaign with the slogan "Realise your talent in the real world" in January 2008. This was accompanied by a series of road shows in shopping malls to more effectively reach prospective applicants. SPF has also increased its recruiting presence in schools to highlight the Police Force as an attractive career choice.”
“Sir, the Government, as you know, is very frugal, very prudent, very fiscal minded and, of course, whenever there is a need to spend money, we will spend the money. But, in this instance, we do not think we need to spend public money to fund the sending of polling agents to overseas stations. Question put, and agreed to. Bill accordingly read a Second time and committed to a Committee of the whole House. The House immediately resolved itself into a Committee on the Bill. – [Mr Wong Kan Seng]. Bill considered in Committee; reported without amendment; read a Third time and passed. ESTATE DUTY (ABOLITION) BILL Order for Second Reading read. 3.30 pm”