Assistance to Hawker Associations to Eradicate Nuisance of Pigeons and Crows at Hawker Centres

63 Mr Lim Biow Chuan asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources whether NEA can provide more assistance to hawker associations to eradicate the nuisance of pigeons and crows at hawker centres.

Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: Nuisance issues at hawker centres relating to pigeons and crows arise when birds are attracted to food remnants. To address this, government agencies such as the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority (AVA) and National Environment Agency (NEA) work closely with hawkers, Hawker Associations, and Town Councils to implement preventive measures. These include public education and enforcement against pigeon feeding and littering, proper food waste management, and surveillance and bird management operations.

Other deterrent measures may also be implemented where required. These include the installation of bird spikes on building structures and beams to reduce perching opportunities, and nettings at the perimeter of hawker centres to prevent birds from entering. We will continue to work closely with stakeholders to manage bird nuisance issues. Hawker Associations which face difficulties with bird nuisance issues may approach NEA for support.

Patrons also play an important role in contributing to the cleanliness of hawker centres, thereby reducing bird nuisance. I encourage all patrons to return their crockery and trays to the tray return points when they finish dining.