NON-CITIZEN WORKERS FOR SINGAPORE-REGISTERED FOREIGN OWNED SHIPS

Haji Sha'ari bin Tadin asked the Minister for National Development and Communications whether he is aware of the recruitment of workers from among non-citizens for some Singapore-registered foreign owned ships and if he proposes to take steps to curb this practice in the interests of our own nationals.

Mr Ong Teng Cheong: I am aware of such a practice but I do not intend to curb it.

Employment opportunities at sea are not that difficult to come by provided the seaman has the necessary discipline and is not choosy.

It may interest the Honourable Member to know that one-third of our seamen are employed on foreign flag ships.

It is important to retain a sense of balance in these matters. Shipowners must be allowed some flexibility in their recruitment policy for otherwise they would be deterred from having their ships registered in Singapore. They are, however, encouraged to employ local seamen. In accordance with the Merchant Shipping Act, 50% of their annual tonnage tax is refunded if 25% or more of their crew consists of Singaporeans.