Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Number of Applications Received by Police And NParks to Hold Public Events and Assemblies Related to the Israel-Hamas Conflict

Question:

Mr Saktiandi Supaat: To ask the Minister for Home Affairs (a) how many applications have the (i) Singapore Police Force and (ii) National Parks Board received to hold public events and assemblies in relation to the Israel-Hamas conflict since it began on 7 October 2023; and (b) what specific checklist and guidelines are there for applicants to assess before applying to hold public events and assemblies on similar issues in the future.

Answer:

Mr K Shanmugam, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law:

1. Since 7 October 2023, the Police have not received any Police permit applications for public assemblies related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The National Parks Board (NParks) has received eight applications to use the Speakers’ Corner for such events.

2. The Police assess applications to hold public assemblies on a case-by-case basis. Some factors that they consider include whether the event poses public order or safety and security concerns. In addition, permits are not granted to non-Singaporeans, including non-Singapore entities, if the event is for political purposes or for election campaigning.

3. Those intending to use the Speakers’ Corner can refer to the Public Order (Unrestricted Area – Speakers’ Corner) Order 2023 and NParks’ Terms and Conditions, which can be found on its website.

4. Applications to hold events related to the Israel-Hamas conflict had been turned down for public safety and security reasons.