Feasibility of Introducing Non-smoking HDB Blocks where Smoking Inside Homes is Not Allowed
Ministry of National DevelopmentSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns a proposal by Ms Hazel Poa to introduce non-smoking HDB blocks where smoking is prohibited inside homes to protect non-smoking residents. Minister Desmond Lee responded that the Housing and Development Board has not considered this due to practical challenges in investigating and enforcing bans within homes. He explained that without effective enforcement, smoking could still occur, so the government focuses on promoting social responsibility and issuing joint advisories to reported units. Residents are encouraged to reach compromises through neighborly engagement, grassroots leaders, or mediation services offered at the Community Mediation Centre. Unresolved disputes regarding second-hand smoke may be brought to the Community Disputes Resolution Tribunal as a last resort for legal settlement.
Transcript
46 Ms Hazel Poa asked the Minister for National Development whether HDB has studied the feasibility of introducing non-smoking HDB blocks where smoking is not allowed even inside the homes, to give non-smokers the option of living amongst non-smoking neighbours.
Mr Desmond Lee: The Housing and Development Board (HDB) has not considered introducing non-smoking HDB blocks where smoking is disallowed within homes. The approach to tackle second-hand smoke in homes had been discussed extensively in this House, including the practical challenges of investigating and enforcing against smoking in homes. Without feasible and effective means of enforcement, smoking within homes could still arise even within dedicated non-smoking blocks.
HDB will continue to support the National Environment Agency in its efforts to urge smokers to exercise social responsibility and be considerate towards those around them, including family members and neighbours. If there is feedback on second-hand smoke from a neighbouring flat, a joint advisory by agencies will be issued to the flat to advise smokers to be considerate to their neighbours and emphasise the harmful impact of second-hand smoke.
Affected parties are encouraged to engage with their neighbour and try to reach a compromise that works for everyone. If they are unable to do so, they can approach grassroot leaders for assistance or attempt mediation at the Community Mediation Centre. If the dispute remains unresolved, the affected parties can consider filing a claim with the Community Disputes Resolution Tribunal as a last resort.