COMMERCIAL MARINE FARMING

Mr Ng Kah Ting asked the Minister for National Development how many applications have been received and how many have been approved from 1977 up to the latest convenient date for commercial fish farming as well as for green shell cultivation in the Singapore Straits.

Mr Teh Cheang Wan: Sir, since 1977 up to February this year, the Primary Production Department has received 14 enquiries on commercial fish farming and five enquiries on green mussels cultivation. No farming sites have been allocated because the Port of Singapore Authority is still considering the demarcation of suitable sites for commercial marine farming. The Primary Production Department, however, has approved applications from 20 kelong operators for fish farming activities in the kelongs.

Mr Ng Kah Ting (Punggol): Sir, could the Minister for National Development indicate whether and when his Ministry could successfully obtain the necessary clearance from the PSA in order that these 19 applications, both for commercial fish farming as well as green shell cultivation, may be approved?

Mr Teh Cheang Wan: Sir, recently I had a discussion with the Director of Primary Production Department in my Ministry and I have asked him to expedite this matter. I hope that agreement on this subject can be reached with the Port of Singapore Authority.