Illegal Hawking

Ms Tin Pei Ling asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources (a) if he can give an overview of the extent of illegal hawking, if any, in Singapore; (b) what actions are taken against such offenders; and (c) what assistance is given to vulnerable Singaporeans who cannot afford hawker licensing costs but want to remain self-reliant.

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Mdm Speaker, NEA has to take action against illegal hawking in order to ensure that food and goods sold do not pose a risk to public health or the act of illegal hawking does not cause public nuisance. Two thirds of the 655 illegal hawkers found in the first six months of this year were foreigners. Under the current regime, composition sums of $300, $400 and $500 will be offered for the first, second and third-time offenders respectively. Upon the fourth and subsequent offences, the illegal hawkers will be prosecuted in Court. Illegal foreign hawkers may also be banned from entering Singapore.

The financial circumstances of Singaporeans engaged in illegal hawking will be investigated. Where appropriate, they are referred to the Social Service Offices of MSF and the Community Development Councils (CDCs) for job and financial assistance.