ILLEGAL DUMPING OF INDUSTRIAL WASTE (Deterrent measures)

Mr Yeo Choo Kok asked the Minister for the Environment (a) what is the total number of cases of illegal dumping of industrial waste, swill and refuse since 1st January, 1980; (b) whether the existing penalties under the law are stringent enough to deter such dumpings; and (c) whether it is necessary to introduce new measures to ensure that only firms or individuals that are duly licensed by his Ministry to dispose of waste and refuse can conduct the business with vehicles specifically manufactured or constructed for such purpose.

The Minister for the Environment (Mr Ong Pang Boon): Mr Speaker, Sir, since 1st January, 1980, a total of 716 cases of illegal dumping of refuse were detected. The refuse comprised construction waste, industrial and trade refuse, containers and some food waste. Illegal dumps, some of which are fairly large, are found mostly on vacant land and sites under clearance. They are unsightly and cause environmental health problems such as odour, the breeding of mosquitoes, flies and rats. It is costly to clear these dumps.

Of the 716 cases detected, 486 offenders were prosecuted in Court. The law provides a maximum fine of $500 for the first offence for illegal dumping. However, the Court normally imposes a fine of about $100.

The Ministry of the Environment has two refuse disposal grounds at Tampines and Lim Chu Kang and an incineration plant at Ulu Pandan. Members of the public can bring bulky waste to these places for disposal. No fees are levied if the quantity of refuse is less than one tonne, and $7.50 is charged for every half tonne in excess of one tonne.

Although facilities are provided at reasonable charges to dispose of refuse, there are still inconsiderate contractors and members of the public who choose to dump their refuse illegally to save time and money, and cause public health nuisance. I can only conclude that they find it worth their while to risk prosecution in Court and the fine and, therefore, the penalties for illegal dumping of waste are not sufficiently deterrent. My Ministry will be seeking amendments to the Environmental Public Health Act to provide more deterrent penalties against illegal dumping of refuse.

At present, private waste collectors are not licensed by my Ministry. They are, however, required to furnish details on the type of equipment and vehicles used. Their operations are being closely monitored to ensure that the waste is properly collected and disposed of at the authorized disposal grounds. My Ministry is also studying the licensing of private waste collectors. olumn: 376