TRAFFIC POLICE MOBILE SQUAD (Particulars)

Mr J. F. Conceicao asked the Minister for Health and Home Affairs what the actual strength is, in terms of personnel and machines, of the Mobile Squad of the Traffic Police, and whether it is sufficient for current traffic conditions.

The Minister for Health and Home Affairs (Mr Chua Sian Chin): Mr Speaker, Sir, the Mobile Squad of the Traffic Police has a total strength of 155 officers and 89 motor-cycles. Action is being taken to increase the number of personnel and machines to the authorised strength of 184 officers and 164 motor-cycles. The Mobile Squad at full strength should be able to cope with current traffic conditions.

Mr Conceicao: May I ask a rather hoary question as to when the full strength will be achieved?

Mr Chua Sian Chin: Vacancies with regard to personnel are mainly due to retirement or resignation of officers. Recruitment exercises are now being carried out to fill them.

Mr Conceicao: Sir, can the Mobile Squad motor-cycles be equipped at least with radio communications, so that this would improve the control of traffic on the roads?

Mr Chua Sian Chin: Of course, the Traffic Police welcomes more up-to-date equipment, so that they can be more efficient and more effective. We will discuss the matter with the other ministries with a view to getting more up-to-date equipment.