Hazel Poa wraps up debate on motion calling for abolition of Group Representation Constituencies

NCMP Hazel Poa said it is quite clear that there is no disagreement on the importance of multiracial representation in Parliament. “Where we differ is simply on how to achieve that multiracial representation,” she said in Parliament on Wednesday (Jul 5). She told the House that she disagrees with Education Minister and Minister-in-charge of the Public Service Chan Chun Sing’s views that the proposals of the Progress Singapore Party do not ensure multiracial representation or prevent race-based parties. Ms Poa also pointed out that Singapore has benefited from a strong single-party system. She warned that without the regular turnover of leadership and political competition, the single-party system also carries the risk of entrenching power within a small group. Checks and balances are necessary for the longer term, she said. Ms Poa said Singapore has entered a different stage of development and with each General Election, the growing desire of voters for greater checks and balances and political diversity becomes more apparent. She said as Singapore moves towards a more balanced political landscape, many changes will be needed. One of these is to abolish Group Representation Constituencies (GRC). She urged all members and Singaporeans to support the call to abolish the GRC system and consider alternative ways of ensuring minority representation.