PEOPLE'S DEFENCE FORCE (Absence from training by private sector volunteers)

Inche Rahmat Bin Kenap asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that some employees in the private sector who were volunteers in the People's Defence Force were sometimes late for, or even absent from, training because their employers would not grant them time off from work to attend training and because of their frequent absences were dismissed from the Force though they were very keen to continue in the Force; and what steps he has taken or proposes to take in the matter.

Mr Lim Kim San: Mr Speaker, Sir, it would not be feasible to compel employers to release their employees to participate in activities which the employees themselves engage in voluntarily. There is, therefore, no provision in the People's Defence Force Act, 1965, to require employers to release volunteers for training. It is expected, however, that employers will have a sense of obligation and duty to the country and will assist and encourage their employees to volunteer in the People's Defence Force.

The People's Defence Force has an operational role to play within Singapore's defence structure and, as such, the members of the force are expected to attain a certain level of military training and preparedness. This can only be achieved by regular attendance at parades and training. A volunteer who fails to appear at parades or to attend training exercises will not be able to keep up with his military knowledge and will be a liability to the force. He will therefore not be allowed to carry on and his place will be taken by someone who can fulfil his military tasks.

Mr Speaker, Sir, the Government is most appreciative of the sacrifices that our citizens make in volunteering for service in the P.D.F, and, for this reason, encourages both employers and employees to participate directly in the efforts of the People's Defence Force to train our citizens to defend the Republic.