DOMESTIC REFUSE BINS (Replacement)

Mr Ng Yeow Chong asked the Minister for Law, the Environment and Science and Technology whether he will initiate the use of better-designed and more durable domestic refuse bins to replace those flimsy metal ones now in use.

The Acting Minister for Social Affairs and Acting Minister for Law, the Environment and Science and Technology (Dr Ahmad Mattar): Sir, in 1976 plastic bins made of high density plastic and with tight fitting covers were introduced in Singapore. These bins which are manufactured by a local company are more durable than metal bins. The bins with a capacity of 60 and 85 litres are obtainable from supermarkets. Demand has not been very encouraging because these bins cost about two to three times more than metal bins. But these bins are more economical because the last longer and do not dent or crack or cause as much of a din as metal bins.