RECLAMATION (SOUTHERN ISLANDS)

The Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Law (Assoc. Prof. Ho Peng Kee): Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I beg to move the motion* standing in the name of the Minister for Law as it appears on the Order Paper.

That this Parliament, in accordance with Section 4 of the Foreshores Act (Cap 113), approves the reclamation by the Government of that portion of foreshore/seabed and reefs at the islands of St John's, Lazarus and Renget and the islet of Kias containing an area of approximately 34 ha as shown coloured pink on the plan marked "LAND OFFICE RECLAMATION PLAN NO. 1/96" which is deposited in the Land Office, Singapore.)

Sir, the Ministry of Trade and Industry proposes to reclaim about 34 hectares over the foreshore and reefs of the Southern Islands. Together with two causeways which will be constructed, this will link up the islet of Kias and the three islands of St John's, Lazarus and Renget. This is shown coloured pink on the plan marked as "LAND OFFICE RECLAMATION PLAN NO. 1/96". A copy of this plan is displayed in the Library of this House for the information of hon. Members.

The proposed reclamation will create the critical mass for a canal-laced marine village with recreational and mooring facilities, and waterfront housing. The proposed development will not only enable us to maximise the potential of the islands which are currently under-utilised, but also to better meet the demand for these facilities among Singaporeans. In addition, it has the potential to be a major tourist attraction.

The reclamation is estimated to cost $144 million. The reclamation works will commence in June 1997 and will take about two years to complete. HDB will be the Government's agent for the reclamation.

Question put, and agreed to.

Resolved,

That this Parliament, in accordance with Section 4 of the Foreshores Act (Cap 113), approves the reclamation by the Government of that portion of foreshore/seabed and reefs at the islands of St John's, Lazarus and Renget and the islet of Kias containing an area of approximately 34 ha as shown coloured pink on the plan marked "LAND OFFICE RECLAMATION PLAN NO. 1/96" which is deposited in the Land Office, Singapore.