DORMITORIES FOR FOREIGN WORKERS

Column: 2895

**

DORMITORIES FOR FOREIGN WORKERS

**

**

(Supply): **

30.

Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked the Minister for National Development in view of the increasing number of foreign workers entering Singapore in recent years (a) whether he can provide an update on the supply of dormitories for foreign workers; and (b) if these facilities are able to cater to the needs of these workers.

Column: 2897

Mr Mah Bow Tan: Since February 2007, BCA and JTC have released 11 new dormitory sites, providing some 65,000 additional bed spaces. These will be completed progressively by 2010. Among these dormitory sites are vacant Government buildings that will be converted into transitional dormitories to meet the immediate demand for dormitory facilities in the next one to two years, while more permanent dormitories are being developed.

For the new permanent workers' dormitories, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) and the Jurong Town Corporation (JTC) will require tenderers to provide a range of amenities within the dormitory sites. Apart from adequate living space, the dormitories may also contain various facilities such as mini-marts, barber shop, remittance services, TV room and sports facilities. This will help to make the dormitories more attractive and self-contained, insofar as daily living and recreational needs are concerned.

Given that Singapore is becoming more built up, it will be an increasing challenge to find suitable sites for foreign workers. Residents may find more foreign workers living in their midst, or dormitory sites located near to their premises. We hope that Singaporeans will be more understanding and accommodating in this aspect. Foreign workers are here to contribute to our economic growth. We should accept their presence in our midst.

Employers and dormitory operators must also play a part in educating the foreign workers on our social norms and way of life in Singapore, and ensuring that the workers are properly housed.