Deferment of rental among possible moves to help businesses hit by oil spill

Businesses affected by Singapore's worst oil spill in over a decade may soon be able to get more help to cope with the financial impact.

- Lee Li Ying

Government agencies are developing measures such as rental deferral to help businesses with their cash flow, on a case-by-case basis, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu said in Parliament on July 2.

Ms Fu, Minister for National Development Desmond Lee and Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat gave ministerial statements in response to 40 parliamentary questions filed on the oil spill, addressing issues such as the immediate response to the incident, cleanup operations, impact on biodiversity as well as food and water safety.

Ms Fu, who is also Minister-incharge of Trade Relations, said: "We understand the frustration and inconvenience that businesses have experienced due to the oil spill.

"That is why Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC), which manages Sentosa and businesses on the Southern Islands, and other agencies such as NParks (National Parks Board) that collectively manage the beachfront along East Coast Park, have been proactively reaching out to their tenants."

Ms Fu said the economic losses can also be assessed for insurance claims.

British Marine, insurer of Marine Honour, the boat that leaked oil into the sea, has set up a contact to receive third-party claims from those affected.

The Straits Times previously reported that waterfront businesses have seen takings and footfall tumble after the oil spill on June 14 affected Singapore's beaches. Vessel charter companies have also taken a beating.

In response to a question by Progress Singapore Party's Non-Constituency MP Hazel Poa on whether the Government will provide additional help such as compensation or bridging loans, Ms Fu encouraged businesses that have been affected to start compiling their numbers to form the basis of their claims.