Rationale for Staff Disciplinary Actions before Conclusion of Coroner's Inquiry for 22 March Fatal Train Incident

Mr Yee Chia Hsing asked the Minister for Transport with regard to the MRT train incident on 22 March 2016, whether it is premature for SMRT to take disciplinary action against staff before the conclusion of investigations and the coroner's inquiry.

Mr Khaw Boon Wan: It is SMRT’s prerogative to take disciplinary action against its staff in accordance with its established procedures. However, as the Member has pointed out, investigations by the Land Transport Authority, the Ministry of Manpower and Police are still on-going. An argument can therefore be made that in this case it would have been better to wait till these investigations come to some conclusions. I note that NTWU has lodged an appeal on behalf of the two staff, and SMRT has convened an Appeal Panel to review the case. I am sure that the Panel will give full consideration to all the relevant factors, and reach a fair decision.