Speakers' Corner now requires only simple registration
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I WOULD like to thank Mr Siow Jia Rui ('Right of assembly doesn't translate into having power to produce an effect'; ST, Sept 17) and Mr Arjunan Raviprakash ('Cannot stage mass protests? So be it'; ST, Sept 17) for their feedback.
With regard to Mr David Lok's letter, 'Want to hear the silent majority? Let them assemble' (ST, Sept 10), the recent opening up of Speakers' Corner is to facilitate greater participation and debate among Singaporeans.
It is not possible to doaway with regulations at Speakers' Corner as experience has shown outdoor talks can be used to incite large crowds to demonstrate or riot, resulting in loss of lives and property.
The regulation simply requires speakers to register to ensure accountability for their views.
Groups of five or more who wish to assemble or conduct processions can do so. However, such persons must first obtain a police permit.
With regard to operating hours, Speakers' Corner, like Hyde Park Corner in London, allows public speaking during daylight hours.
The police have assessed that the current operating hours at Speakers' Corner are sufficient.
We will review the need for extended hours if necessary.
VICTOR KEONG
Assistant Director,
Media Relations (covering)
Singapore Police Force -
Anyone spoken at speakers corner before ? Personally I feel that Raffles's Place would be a better choice. Hope it will be shifted over there.
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Its in the middle of nowhere who will go ?
