KANDANG KERBAU MARKET (Conversion into two-storey market)

Mr Yeo Toon Chia asked the Minister for Health if he will consider the feasibility of converting the Kandang Kerbau Market into a two-storey market to accommodate the increasing number of hawkers' stalls which are at present outside the market and so enhance the cleanliness of the vicinity.

The Minister for Health (Mr Chua Sian Chin): Mr Speaker, Sir, it is feasible to convert the Kandang Kerbau Market into a two-storey market so that the enlarged market will be able to accommodate the 570-odd hawkers who are now plying outside the market. However, owing to the total absence of an alternative site in the vicinity which is very congested, action cannot, at this point of time, be taken to relocate the market stallholders and hawkers while renovations to the market are being carried out. Thus, the only solution is for the market to be rebuilt in conjunction with the urban renewal of the whole area. This will be done when such urban redevelopment comes round to the area.

In the meanwhile, Public Health Auxiliaries of this Ministry will continue to visit frequently the market and its environs to ensure that the cleanliness of the pitches and stalls and their surroundings is maintained.