Posted: 29 May 2011 2014 hrs
SINGAPORE: Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has again
spoken of the need for Members of Parliament (MPs) to stay
connected with the people and enhance efforts at bonding with
residents.
This was after he revealed there had been criticisms of the
shortcomings of grassroots activists both in the People's Action
Party (PAP) and People's Association, in the aftermath of the
recent General Election.
Speaking at a dinner to thank volunteers of Ang Mo Kio Group
Representation Constituency (GRC), PM Lee acknowledged some of the
criticisms were about MPs being shielded from residents, not being
responsive enough to the needs of residents, and not candid enough
in giving feedback.
Mr Lee's reiteration of the importance of engaging residents came
just after his release on Friday of the Rules of Prudence to all
PAP members where he said "the elections have shown that voters
have concerns which need to be addressed.
"The government will have to significantly improve our outreach to
voters, our approach to formulating policies, and our policies
themselves.
"As MPs, you play key roles in all these areas. You have to listen
hard to voter concerns, help them to tackle pressing needs, reflect
their worries and aspirations to the government and persuade them
to support policies which are in their own long-term
benefit".
Mr Lee, who is also Secretary-General of the PAP, said clearly
there were problems which were missed and areas where the party can
and must improve.
These include strengthening the party's presence on the ground,
improving the way MPs and the grassroots network operate with more
effective ways to bond with residents, and reaching out to groups
which the party needs to better connect with, including young
adults, and residents who live in private estates.
Mr Lee vowed to remedy the shortcomings and work hard to
consolidate the PAP's support and strive to do better next
time.
He stressed he would not blame the activists as the majority have
committed enormous time and energy to community work, and have done
their best to serve the residents.
He said volunteers and activists have given their honest feedback,
which unfortunately the party sometimes failed to interpret
correctly.
He said he hopes they will not be discouraged, but continue to work
for the good of their residents.
-CNA
Singapore is blessed to have Lee Hsien Loong as our PM!
