Debated in Parliament on 21 Apr 2023.
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (a) what are the regulations or guidelines governing interactions between grassroots, People's Association, and Government agency outreach efforts involving politicians and community groups, and the publicity relating to such interactions; and (b) how are political events and Government agency outreach efforts distinguished from grassroots and state events.
The People's Association (PA) is a Statutory Board under the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth. It has full-time officers who work closely with grassroots leaders and volunteers. PA was set up in 1961 to promote social cohesion, and to act as a bridge between the Government and the people. PA plays a key role in last mile communications – explaining Government policies to citizens, listening to their concerns and gathering their feedback so that the Government can refine, adjust and improve its policies to better meet the needs of Singaporeans.
PA works closely with Government agencies to inform and engage residents on key government initiatives. For example, during the COVID-19 period, PA worked with Ministry of Health to raise awareness of safe distancing measures, and to explain and assist in the vaccination programme. PA spared no effort during the pandemic to look after our residents, going door to door, providing a calming assurance to our residents, and going the extra mile even when it meant risking the health and safety of staff and volunteers. PA also delivered urgent services to residents – including distributing masks, TraceTogether tokens and delivering food during the circuit breaker period.
The PA appoints Grassroots Advisers to guide the grassroots organisations; as well as grassroots leaders and volunteers to help us communicate and implement the policies and programmes of the Government. This includes explaining difficult and sometimes unpopular policies that the Government believes are necessary for the future of Singapore, such as the Goods and Services Tax increases, which the Opposition rejects, the increase in retirement age and the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act, for example.
Like other Government agencies, PA does not conduct any activity with any political party. PA does not allow its events or venues to be used for partisan purposes by any political party.
PAPERCUTS