PIG REARING IN JALAN KAYU (Number of applications and effect on environment)

Mr Hwang Soo Jin asked the Minister for National Development and Communications (a) how many applications have been received from pig farmers to move into Jalan Kayu; and (b) what steps are being taken to ensure that the developing of large scale pig rearing in Jalan Kayu and Punggol will not have an undesirable effect on the environment at nearby residential estates.

Dr Tan Eng Liang (for the Minister for National Development and Communications): Mr Speaker, Sir, a total of 209 pig farms have been allotted land at the Punggol and Jalan Kayu areas. Of these, 137 farms were allotted land under Phase I of the development scheme in Punggol while 72 of these will be resettled under Phase II of the programme at Jalan Kayu. It is estimated that the land at Jalan Kayu will accommodate another 20 odd farms in addition to the 31 farms which have been allowed to remain in the area.

The lands at Jalan Kayu and Punggol are zoned for agricultural use. Prior to their development for intensive pig farming, there were altogether 211 farms and 1700 rural squatters. The farms which are being resettled in the area are the larger and more efficient farms which are better managed with modern husbandry practices and improved sanitation. They are required to provide proper waste management facilities on the farms which will control waste discharge. In addition to the 50,000 metres network of internal drainage, the Sungei Tongkang Pechah at Jalan Kayu is currently being improved at a cost of $1.1 million for effective discharge of farm waste from the area. Where appropriate, buffer zones will also be created to screen off the pig farms from the nearby residential area.