KALLANG FLATS (Refuse chutes and containers)

Mrs Seow Peck Leng asked the Minister for National Development whether he is aware that at the Housing and Development Board flats at Kallang some refuse chutes are without covers and the refuse containers at the bottom of the chutes are full of big holes, and what steps are proposed to be taken in the matter.

Mr Tan Kia Gan: As far as I am aware, the Housing and Development Board has been efficient in the management of its housing estates. The officials of the Board make regular inspections of the 200 refuse chutes and 599 refuse containers in the Kallang estate. During the past six months the Board has replaced 18 chute covers and 200 containers, which were either stolen or damaged.

Mrs Seow Peck Leng: Mr Speaker, Sir, apart from the complaint that is already in the question - I will not waste your time repeating it - I wonder whether the Minister is aware that the position has now worsened to such an extent that because of the strike the rubbish now in these chutes has reached the third floor, and something must be done before an epidemic starts.

Mr Speaker: No doubt the hon. Member will write to the Ministry and ask it to look into the matter.