GOVERNMENT CRECHES (Takeover by trade union)

Mr Ho Kah Leong asked the Minister for Social Affairs how many Government creches have been taken over by a trade union and how many more will be taken over; and what are the reasons and conditions for the take over.

The Minister for Social Affairs (Encik Othman Bin Wok): Mr Speaker, Sir, so far, only the Kallang Creche has been taken over by the Singapore Industrial Labour Organisation (SILO) with effect 1st October, 1976

My Ministry has been discussing with the National Trades Union Congress on the proposal for the NTUC to take over the remaining 10 creches at present administered by the Social Welfare Department. This is in line with the Government's policy to encourage private and industrial organisations to operate creches to help working mothers. It is particularly appropriate that the NTUC should take a lead in this area as it is best placed to understand and appreciate the practical difficulties of employment. It is also in line with the NTUC's policy of looking after the welfare of workers.

As for the conditions for the handover, these are still being discussed but basically the NTUC would be responsible for the day-to-day running of the creches on a financial subsidy given by the Government. The Social Welfare Department will continue to look after the hardship cases which are sent to the creches.

It is planned for the NTUC to take over the creches by the end of this year on a phased schedule.