ENFORCEMENT OF VEHICLE PARKING TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS

Mr Chng Hee Kok asked the Minister for Home Affairs if he will give an update on the privatised scheme for enforcement of vehicle parking traffic violations.

The Minister of State for Home Affairs (Assoc. Prof. Ho Peng Kee) (for the Minister for Home Affairs): Sir, a total of 12,135 parking violation notices were issued in November and December under the Traffic Warden Scheme, which has been in operation for about three months now. Traffic Police assesses that the illegal parking problem in the 38 locations covered by the Scheme has improved. Traffic flows better in most areas, as many motorists are deterred from waiting and parking in these areas by the presence of the traffic wardens.

Sir, public concerns, when the Scheme was first launched, over the competence and objectivity of the traffic wardens have been allayed. The traffic wardens, who were trained by Traffic Police, have performed up to expectations. They are responsible for serving parking violation notices. Traffic Police continues to issue the summonses, determine the fines and hear appeals. Traffic Police will continue to monitor the performance of the wardens closely and conduct monthly audits of the scheme with CISCO to ensure that high standards are maintained.

The Traffic Warden Scheme will be extended to more locations if it sustains its promising start. This will help free up precious Police manpower and enable Traffic Police to devote more resources to act against moving traffic offences, which pose a greater threat to public safety than static offences such as illegal parking.