Disturbed by new protocol on home checks for mosquitoes

Clivebenss SG

Aug 9, 2011 - ST Forum

MY PARENTS and grandparents are very disturbed by the fact that National Environment Agency (NEA) officers can now force their way into an owner's house after just one unsuccessful home visit ('Easier to check homes for mosquitoes now: Vivian'; last Saturday).

While we understand that it is important to keep our homes and surroundings free from mosquito breeding, are we expected to apply for leave just to stay at home and wait for the NEA inspection?

My father recently had an unpleasant experience with two NEA officers who entered the house without his consent while he was occupied in the backyard. When my father questioned them, only one of them apologised while the other unabashedly continued his 'routine' inspection. This is unprofessional and uncalled for.

A good relationship between the NEA and residents should be one forged on the basis of mutual respect and understanding - not one of fear, apprehension and cynicism.

I hope the relevant authorities can clarify their stand on this matter.

Andy Tan

Clivebenss SG

Fight Against Dengue

Aug 11, 2011 - ST Forum

WE THANK Mr Andy Tan for his letter 'Disturbed by new protocol on home checks for mosquitoes' (Tuesday) and agree with him on the need for a good and close working relationship.

We assure the public that the enhanced protocols for faster home checks will be used for dengue clusters where lives could be at stake. It will be used only as a last resort when all attempts to contact home owners are unsuccessful.

During routine inspections, the National Environment Agency (NEA) officers would normally arrange for a return visit if the premises are vacant. In the event of a dengue cluster, the NEA will step up its inspections. Should any premises be vacant, our officers will attempt to make another visit, failing which a legal notice under Section 35 of the Control of Vectors and Pesticides Act (CVPA) will be served to require the owner/occupant to arrange an appointment.

If the owners ignore the notice and attempts to contact them via their neighbours, grassroots and neighbourhood police fail, only then will we invoke Section 36 of the CVPA to allow us entry within the shortest time possible.

Every day of delay increases the risk to residents. All such entries will be supervised by senior NEA officers, as well as town council representatives. Thereafter, the premises will be resecured and a notice will be left in the mailbox to advise the owner to contact NEA for the keys.

Mr Tan also referred to inspections by NEA officers. We wish to clarify that NEA inspectors are required to seek permission from residents before entering their compounds. Residents should authenticate the identity of NEA officers through their authority cards and/or call the NEA Call Centre on 1800 CALL NEA (1800-2255-632). Samples of these cards can be viewed at http://app2.nea.gov.sg/advisory_nea_officer.aspx

The number of dengue cases last week was 218 which is lower than the previous week. However, dengue still remains a threat to all of us and we should not let our guard down.

The NEA will continue to educate the public on dengue and work closely with the community to tackle the threat. If all stakeholders play their part, we will be able to reduce the incidence of dengue in Singapore.

Derek Ho

Director

Environmental Health Department

National Environment Agency