Deployment of Community Relations Unit Powers beyond Pilot Run in Tampines for Severe Hoarding Cases

113 Mr David Hoe asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the Municipal Services Office will consider accelerating the deployment of Community Relations Unit (CRU) powers beyond the Tampines pilot for severe hoarding cases posing persistent public health or fire risks, and where repeated multi-agency interventions have failed; and (b) if so, whether adequate resourcing for the CRU can be reflected in Budget 2026 to support such accelerated deployment.

Mr Chee Hong Tat: The Hoarding Management Core Group (HMCG), led by the Municipal Services Office, coordinates efforts across Government agencies to resolve severe hoarding cases. HMCG assesses and prioritises cases based on the severity of hoarding and the impact on public health and safety.

For example, if the hoarded unit is infested with rats, cockroaches or other vectors, the National Environment Agency may direct the hoarder to tackle the infestation, such as removing the clutter that is harbouring the vectors. Where there is severe clutter obstructing exits, agencies coordinate with the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) to ensure occupants have a passageway to exit the unit during an emergency. SCDF can also require the hoarder to cease hoarding flammable items.

The New Environment Action Team has been working hard to identify cases early and address the underlying issues to provide more well-rounded support to hoarders and relief to their neighbours.