INSHORE FISHERMEN IN PUNGGOL (Continuance of livelihood)

Mr Ng Kah Ting asked the Minister for National Development and Communications (a) whether he is aware that there are many inshore fishermen in Punggol who have been unable to obtain fishing licences and if he will be more liberal in the granting of such licences; and (b) whether he will allow those fishermen, affected by land acquisition at Punggol and now living in Housing and Development Board estates, to keep their fishing boats and other equipment in a designated place along the coast for such purpose so as to enable them to continue their livelihood.

Dr Tan Eng Liang (for the Minister for National Development and Communications): Mr Speaker, Sir, fishermen who are engaged in fishing activities and are dependent on inshore fishing for a livelihood are eligible for inshore fishing licences.

A site along the coast has been designated to allow the Punggol fishermen affected by resettlement to keep their fishing boats and other equipment. Some fishermen have already made use of the site. Others who wish to make use of the site may apply to the Primary Production Department for the necessary assistance.