Announcement by Speaker
Summary
This statement concerns the Speaker’s announcement regarding the transition toward normalcy through the easing of COVID-19 safe management measures within Parliament. Mr Speaker explained that Members will now follow a revised seating arrangement without split teams and may share breaks together in one room. Despite these changes, vigilance is maintained via mandatory Antigen Rapid Test self-tests before Sittings and reserved seating for negative-testing close contacts. Mr Speaker expressed appreciation for the Members' forbearance since 2020, which ensured that parliamentary duties continued uninterrupted throughout the public health crisis. He concluded by calling for continued commitment to necessary protocols to facilitate business as usual and chart Singapore’s way forward.
Transcript
Mr Speaker: Hon Members, with Singapore becoming more COVID-19-resilient, we have been easing safe management measures in the community. Here in Parliament, we have also been adjusting our measures, even as we continue to prioritise the safeguarding of Members’ health and well-being. And thanks to everyone’s efforts and strong commitment, we have moved steadfastly towards normalcy.
Hence, I am pleased that, starting today, we have taken yet another step forward. Members will now be seated according to the revised seating arrangement within the Chamber without the need for split team arrangement. This also means that all Members can now take their breaks together, in one room.
But even as we further ease the measures in Parliament, we will persist with a certain level of vigilance. And so, Members are still required to do an Antigen Rapid Test (ART) self-test before coming to Parliament House on Sitting days. And the seats in the Speaker’s Gallery within the Chamber will continue to be set aside for Members who are close contacts of COVID-19 cases but have themselves tested negative for COVID-19.
As always, we will monitor the public health advisories and make adjustments according to the prevailing situation.
Once again, I wish to thank all Members for your forbearance and diligence in adhering to Parliament’s COVID-19 measures, which had been in place since early 2020. Your efforts have allowed us to carry on with our duties as parliamentarians during a critical time for Singapore and have also facilitated our quick return to business as usual. And so, let us not tire – but let us remain committed to whatever is necessary for us to chart the way forward for Singapore.
Thank you. Order. Questions for Oral Answer.