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Title : Shanmugam says no timeframe on when Flyer can reopen
By :
Date : 28 December 2008 1847 hrs (SST)
URL : http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/398918/1/.html

SINGAPORE: Second Minister for Home Affairs K Shanmugam has said it is not possible to provide a timeframe on when the Singapore Flyer's licence will be reinstated.

The Flyer experienced a technical glitch that left 173 people suspended for more than six hours on Tuesday. The Police are withholding the Flyer's Public Entertainment licence until their own investigations are completed.

Mr Shanmugam, who is also the Law Minister, said on Sunday that a thorough process is needed to understand why the Flyer stopped and what possible precautions need to be taken.

"Given the nature of the incident and the fact that this is not the first time it has happened, obviously we need to be satisfied about what exactly happened first. Why it happened, and what are the future probabilities, likelihood of it happening and if it happens, what would be the backup plans, going forward," he said.

While he understands that the Flyer wants to resume operations as quickly as possible, Mr Shanmugam said public safety is of a key concern.

"We understand obviously the need for the Singapore Flyer to restart as quickly as possible. And it's got to be balanced against the public safety. It's not something I can give you a timeframe just yet," he said.

Mr Shanmugam was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a community event at Sree Ramar Temple. He was the Guest of Honour at the launch of the temple's bursary scheme, which will give out S$30,000 to help more than 170 needy primary and special school-going children.

- 938LIVE.





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