SUPPORTINGSUPPORTING OUROUR NSmenNSmen ANAN EMPLOYERS’EMPLOYERS’ GUIDEGUIDE
contents
Your Role as an Employer in Total Defence 3 Importance of Employer Support 4 Employer's Role in Total Defence 4 How Employers Can Support Their NS Employees National Service In Action 7 National Service in the Three Forces 11 National Service and Types of Call-Ups Important Information 21 Making It Easier For Employers to Support National Service 25 Recognition and Awards For Employers 28 Medical Benefits and Compensation for NSmen 29 NSmen Payments 36 FAQs 47 Addresses & Telephone Numbers 50 Abbreviations 51 Appendix 1 52 Notes preface
ARMY AIRFORCE NAVY SPF SCDF
This year, MINDEF and the SAF commemorate 35 years of National Service. Our experience and the prevailing uncertainty in the region are constant reminders that our security environment may change suddenly. Security is the foundation upon which Singapore’s survival and success depend.
To ensure our future peace, progress and prosperity, we have to maintain a strong SAF backed by an equally effective Total Defence capability that draws widespread support from all sectors of our nation. This gives investors the confidence to put their money and business in Singapore. National Service and Total Defence have thus provided the vital peace and security foundation for Singapore.
Singapore will continue to take her defence seriously. But the defence of our nation does not solely rest on those in uniforms, particularly our National Servicemen in the SAF, SPF or SCDF, who constitute the bulk of our defence forces.
Their families and employers also play a crucial role in supporting the commitment of our National Servicemen to the defence of the nation and boosting their morale and fighting spirit. We are fortunate that employers today understand the importance and necessity of National Service. They have adjusted to the disruption and inconvenience that come with the National Servicemen’s obligations. Over the years, an increasing number of employers go beyond simply releasing their employees for National Service call-ups. They have, on their own initiative, organised in-house programmes to support Total Defence, and encouraged their employees to perform well during their National Service training and duties. This certainly augurs well for the defence of our nation.
This handbook is another effort by the Government to help you, as employers, better understand our National Service policies and training requirements which may have an impact on your business. It also serves as a channel of communication to foster a closer understanding between the Government and employers of National Servicemen. We are confident that, with this information, you will give greater support to Total Defence and your employees’ National Service obligations. Ultimately, it is with our collective will, support and commitment to National Service and Total Defence that Singapore’s continued security and success shall be assured.
Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence 2 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
YOUR ROLE AS AN EMPLOYER IN TOTAL DEFENCE
"If you who are growing up do not understand that you've got to defend this country, then I say in the end we will lose."
Mr Lee Kuan Yew Prime Minister (1967) SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 3
Importance of Employer Support
Singapore is a small island with a small population, located in a region of the world that has had a history of turbulence and uncertainty. Despite these disadvantages, we have overcome the odds to emerge as a vibrant and economically successful nation. In the world economic front, Singapore has been consistently ranked well by Business Environment Risk Intelligence (BERI) and other reputable institutions for its workforce and competitive economy. Singapore can realise this because there is peace and stability. The deterrent effect provided by a credible defence force enables businesses to grow and flourish, and our society to thrive.
But we cannot take peace and stability for granted for we remain vulnerable to external developments. This is why we must take our defence seriously. Over the years, we have invested heavily in building an effective Singapore Armed Forces that is a credible deterrent to potential aggressors. However, building up the SAF alone is not enough. For our defence efforts to be effective, we need Total Defence with its five components - psychological defence, social defence, economic defence, civil defence and military defence. Ultimately, our guarantee for continued peace, stability, economic progress and prosperity is a strong and formidable SAF, backed by an equally effective Total Defence capability, drawing widespread support from all sectors of our nation.
The 350,000 NSmen in the SAF, Singapore Police Force and the Singapore Civil Defence Force face many demands in their dual roles. Besides the responsibility of defending the country, many of them are employees contributing to the economic development of Singapore. As employers, your support is thus crucial for these NS employees. 4 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
Employer's Role in Total Defence As an employer, you can play your role in Total Defence by adopting an active management policy that provides a supportive environment for your employees to carry out their NS duties. You can:
Encourage your employees to attend In-Camp Trainings (ICTs) and make necessary plans to release them from their work;
Provide psychological support for your NS employees by encouraging them to perform well in their In-Camp Trainings (ICTs) and to keep fit;
Take into consideration their ICT performance in the overall assessment of your employees; and
Discourage them from applying for deferment from ICTs.
How Employers Can Support Their NS Employees You may wish to show your support and commitment for NS and Total Defence through the following schemes implemented by the government or initiatives introduced by some employers:
a. Signing a Corporate Declaration of Support Certificate
Making a declaration on this certificate demonstrates your commitment to national defence.
Upon endorsement by your company's top management, it can be displayed prominently within the office premises so that employees are aware of the company's positive stand on NS.
You can approach the SAF's National Service Affairs Department (NSAD)/ Police National Service Department/ National Service Personnel Department, HQ SCDF if you are interested in declaring your support. SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 5
b. Personnel Policy You can consider adopting a personnel policy that recognises the NS achievements and contributions of NS employees for promotion or career advancement in your company. This would certainly encourage your NS employees to take their NS duties seriously.
It would be very visible to your NS employees if you included ICT performance as an assessment factor in your staff appraisal form. Knowing that you are interested in their ICT performance will certainly spur them to give their best during ICT. c. Pay Increments for Completed Full-Time NS
Male employees who join the Civil Service on completion of full- time NS are given 2 salary increments in recognition of their contributions to national defence and to ensure that they do not lose out in terms of salary to their contemporaries who do not have to serve NS.
Many employers in the private sector have also given similar tangible recognition for NS to their male employees. d. Direct Management Involvement Your personal interest and direct involvement in the NS affairs of your employees will indicate to them your company's stand on NS. You can show your interest and involvement in the following ways:
Discouraging application for deferment from ICTs
Incorporating employees' ICT period in your company's work schedule and releasing them for ICTs
Submitting make-up pay claims to the Pay or Finance Department on time
Informing NS employees when mobilisation is activated during office hours
Keeping NS employees' units informed of your employees' commencement of work or resignation from the company
Encouraging NS employees to keep fit so they can pass their Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT)
Publicising NSmen's performance in your company's newsletter
Supporting SAF/SAFRA/SPF/Singapore Police Association for National Servicemen/SCDF/Civil Defence Association for National Servicemen activities
Inserting clauses that explicitly support Total Defence in collective agreements with unions. 6 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
"The reasons for a National Service armed forces are as relevant and valid today as 35 years ago - to defend our nation, and to bond our people."
Mr Goh Chok Tong Prime Minister (2002)
NATIONAL SERVICE IN ACTION SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 7
NATIONAL SERVICE IN THE THREE FORCES National Service (NS), in the words of its founding architect, former Deputy PM and Defence Minister Dr Goh Keng Swee, has become an 'extraordinary feature of life' in Singapore. It is the price for those who want to call Singapore 'home'. As an employer in Singapore, you invariably have an NSman, whether serving with the SAF, SPF or SCDF, in your work force. In this section, we give you the historical background on NS.
SINGAPORE ARMED FORCES (SAF) The first batch of 900 National Servicemen was enlisted for full-time National Service in the SAF in 1967. When this group of National Servicemen completed their full-time service on 16 August 1969, they became the country's first reservists - a term changed on 1 January 1994 to Operationally Ready National Servicemen, or NSmen for short, to better reflect their operational roles in the forefront of the nation's defence. This was a milestone for Singapore and for the SAF. 8 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
Singapore could not afford a regular standing army as that would have been a heavy burden on her scarce manpower resources and hindered economic development. Conscription, or National Service, was the only viable option to building up a credible defence force. Over the years through National Service, the SAF has grown to its current strength of some 350,000 men, of whom 300,000 are NSmen. SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 9
Today, Singapore's defence rests primarily on the shoulders of these citizen soldiers. They play two important roles - as citizens, they contribute to the economic advancement of the nation; as soldiers, they are required to bear arms to defend the nation should the need arise. Our NSmen are our front- line fighting men and the forefront of Singapore's defence force. Their military skills are honed and upgraded throughout their training cycle. They go through in-camp training stints, physical fitness tests and mobilisation exercises to remain operationally ready at all times. 10 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE (SPF) The Singapore Police Force implemented full-time NS in 1975 when it received its first intake of full-time National Servicemen. Since then, Police National Service has grown from strength to strength. From being deployed for sentry duties in the 1970s, the PNS has, since 1994, been reorganised into a specialised unit within the SPF. With this new focus in professionalism, Police NSmen soon saw themselves taking on new and challenging roles formerly reserved only for regular police officers.
Today, we have a total of about 21,000 Police NSmen. In pursuing their common vision of a safe and peaceful society, our Police NSmen have contributed significantly in augmenting the SPF in shouldering the responsibility of protecting life and property.
SINGAPORE CIVIL DEFENCE FORCE (SCDF) The Singapore Civil Defence Force enlisted its first intake of full-time National Servicemen in October 1981. When they completed their full-time service in 1983, they became the first SCDF NSmen, together with other NSmen who were absorbed from the SAF and PNS. Today, the SCDF has a total of more than 23,000 NSmen in their active units. They now constitute the backbone of Civil Defence and are organised into NS units to carry out civil defence operations and to provide leadership to the civilian population in an emergency. SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 11
NATIONAL SERVICE AND TYPES OF CALL-UPS Among the policies emphasised by the government since independence was the need for a strong and credible defence force to safeguard our national security. To achieve this, NS enlistment policies were enacted under the Enlistment Act. In this section, we will provide you with a better idea of your obligations as an employer and that of your NS employees:
LEGAL LIABILITIES a. Overview
Under the Enlistment Act, Chapter 93, every Singapore citizen and permanent resident is liable for full-time NS for a period of 2 to 2.5 years. Upon completion of full-time NS, operationally- ready NSmen are liable to maintain and upgrade their skills. b. For Employers
Section 22 of the Enlistment Act states that no employer shall dismiss a person on account of his call-ups for NS. Any employer who contravenes this provision is guilty of an offence and liable for a fine not exceeding $2000; or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months, or both fine and imprisonment.
Section 23 of the Enlistment Act states that an employer shall grant his NS employee leave of absence during his period of NS. Any employer who contravenes this provision is guilty of an offence and liable for a fine not exceeding $5000; or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years, or both fine and imprisonment. c. For NSmen
Every Singapore citizen or permanent resident is liable for NS up to age of 40 or 50 depending on the rank he holds in NS. Warrant Officers, Specialists and Enlisted personnel in the SAF, other ranks and men in the SCDF and Police Officers in PNS are liable for NS till age 40, while officers in the SAF and SCDF and Senior Officers in PNS are liable for NS till age 50.
All NSmen are liable for call-ups for a maximum of 40 days per workyear (computed from 1 April of the current year to 31 March of the following year).
NSmen will not be made to serve over and above the annual NS liability without their own and their employers' prior consent.
NS CALL-UPS To ensure their ability to defend Singapore, our NSmen undergo tough and realistic training, to maintain a high level of operational readiness. This includes annual in-camp training 12 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
and mobilisation exercises in peacetime. NSmen are called up regularly to keep fit, to hone their military skills and to be operationally ready.
ACTIVITIES FOR WHICH SAF NSMEN CAN BE CALLED UP SAF NSmen are required to undergo a 13-year NS training cycle, after which they remain liable for NS until the legal age limit for NS. They may be called to perform any of the following activities:
a. In-Camp Training
This is the main NS training activity, normally lasting 2-3 weeks.
Training can be conducted locally or overseas. Overseas trainings are generally longer in duration.
An NSman who does not meet the minimum training standards could be called up for re-training. The re-training period is counted towards his 40-days' annual liability.
For the Air Force, there are 2 additional types of ICT:
i. Flexi-ICT: Applies to NS pilots, aircrew, WSO (C3), WSO (NAV) and WSO (UAV) who are required to perform ICT at regular short intervals in order to maintain operational currency.
ii. Multiple ICT: Applies to NS senior technicians, technicians and drivers who are required to perform ICT more than once a year. SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 13 b. Upgrading Courses
Such courses are conducted for NSmen to improve their skills and the units' operational readiness.
They also prepare selected NSmen for higher appointments. c. Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT)
Combat-fit NSmen below 45 years of age must attempt the IPPT at least once a year.
An NSman who wishes to improve on his IPPT result can choose to retake his IPPT as often as he wishes.
NSmen who are 35 years old and above will undergo a medical check-up before IPPT. d. IPPT Remedial Training
An NSman who fails his IPPT will be required to undergo Remedial Training (RT) - a 2 month non-residential training programme comprising 3- hourly PT sessions with 2 sessions weekly (1 weekday and 1 weekend session).
IPPT is conducted on the 7th and 15th session. Those who pass the IPPT will be released from RT programme immediately.
NSmen are required to attain at least 80% attendance for the programme; failing which, they will have to repeat the RT programme. e. Mobilisation Exercises
In open mobilisation, NSmen will be activated through the mass media in 4 official languages. In silent mobilisation, telephones, display pagers and facsimile machines are used to recall NSmen.
NSmen from the activated units must report to their mobilisation centres immediately. The exercise does not usually exceed 1 day. 14 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
f. Civil Resource Requisition
The Requisition of Resources Act allows the government to mobilise civil resources during times of crisis. Some examples of civil resources are: vehicles, vessels, aircraft, construction equipment, workshops, shipyards, warehouses and hospitals.
g. Other NS Activities
Briefing for ICTs Briefing for mobilisation Workplan Briefing Seminar Medical Review NS Commanders' Day Basic Combat Training Make-up Training Rehearsals for National Day Parade/ SAF Day Parade Any other activities deemed necessary
ACTIVITIES FOR WHICH POLICE NSMEN CAN BE CALLED UP PNSmen are required to annually serve their NS until the legal age limit for NS. They may be called-up to perform any of the following activities:
a. National Service Key Installation Training
A regular activity lasting from 10 to 16 days for NSmen selected to form the Key Installation (KINS) Group.
Residential training will be conducted at Special Operations Command (SOC).
NSmen are scheduled for IPPT and Shooting Test during their training period.
b. NS in Division/ Unit
A main activity lasting for 1 or 2 weeks depending on the operational requirement of the functional group.
NSmen are scheduled for IPPT and shooting during their NS call-ups.
NSmen would be deployed to any of the Land Divisions, Police Coast Guard (PCG) or Police Units to perform policing or staff duties.
NSmen with technical expertise are deployed to units to perform technical duties. SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 15 c. Special Duties Recall
In an event that requires large manpower resources to cover important activities, PNSmen may be recalled up to 3 days to perform ‘special duties’.
At least two weeks of notification will be given to the NSmen and his employer.
But this recall is over and above the normal recall cycle.
d. Individual Physical Proficiency Test
Physically fit NSmen below the age of 40 for Police Officers and 45 for Senior Officers must attempt the IPPT once a workyear. To ensure their fitness, NSmen above the age of 35 will undergo a medical check-up once every two years before the IPPT and those 40 years and above will undergo a yearly medical checkup
An NSman who fails the IPPT or wishes to improve his result can be re-tested. If he fails at the end of his IPPT window, he will be recalled for RT. Being absent from IPPT and RT activities without a valid reason is an offence punishable under Section 32 of the Enlistment Act. e. IPPT Remedial Training
RT is a 3-month non-residential training programme comprising 2-hourly PT sessions conducted in 2 parts. Part 1 is eight weeks in duration, with two sessions weekly (weekdays only). NSmen who are unable to pass their IPPT by the end of Part 1 will have to continue with part 2; which is 4 weeks in duration, three sessions a week (weekdays only).
Attendance at all sessions is compulsory. Those who are absent without a valid reason will be charged with an offence under the Enlistment Act. In addition, NSmen are required to attain at least 80% attendance for both parts of the programme; failing which, they will have to repeat the RT programme. 16 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
f. Upgrading Courses Recall
In instances where special training is deemed necessary to upgrade the NSmen’s skill and professionalism, they will be recalled for the duration for a course of less than 40 days.
At least one month of advance notification will be given to the NSmen and his employer.
This is over and above the normal recall cycle.
g. Mobilisation Exercise
Activation of NSmen through telephone calls and display pagers.
NSmen who are activated must report to their Division/ Unit immediately. The exercise usually does not exceed 1 day.
In an open mobilisation, NSmen would be activated through the mass media. Activated NSmen must report to the Division/ Unit immediately in full uniform.
In a silent mobilisation, NSmen are activated through a usual plan of mobilisation. Activated NSmen must report to the Division/ Unit immediately in full uniform.
h. Other NS activities
Briefing for Annual Exercise or Mobilisation Pre-course Briefing Medical Review Workplan Briefing Seminar Any other activity deemed necessary SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 17
ACTIVITIES FOR WHICH SCDF NSMEN CAN BE CALLED UP SCDF NSmen are required to perform NS duties until the legal age limit for NS. They may be called up to perform any of the following activities: a. In-Camp Training
This is the main NS training activity, usually lasting 1-2 weeks.
An NSman who does not meet the minimum training standards can be called up for re-training. The re-training period is counted towards his 40-days' annual liability. b. Vocational Courses
Such courses are to train and vocationalise the NS officers and men who are transferred from SAF/ Police.
Upon successful completion of the courses, they will be posted to NS units according to their vocations. c. Upgrading Courses
Such courses are conducted for officers and non-officers to improve their skills and the units' operational readiness.
They also prepare selected NSmen for higher appointments. 18 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
d. Individual Physical Proficiency Test and Remedial Training
NSmen below 45 years of age must attempt the IPPT during his ICT. NSmen above 35 years of age will undergo a medical checkup before each IPPT.
All eligible NSmen must take their IPPT during ICT. The IPPT requirement will be stated clearly in the SCDF 100. NSmen who have valid reasons for not attempting their IPPT such as those who are medically excused, granted deferment from the ICT or the ICT IPPT is cancelled due to inclement weather will be scheduled for Make-up IPPT. NSmen who did not take (with or without valid reasons), or failed the Make-up IPPT, will then be scheduled for the Retest. If they did not take (with or without valid reasons), or failed the Retest again, they will then be scheduled for Remedial Retests.
NSmen who did not attempt the IPPT during ICT without any valid reason, or failed the IPPT during ICT, will be scheduled for Retest. If they fail or did not attempt the Retest (with or without valid reasons), they will be scheduled for Remedial Retests. The Remedial Retests comprise a maximum of 5 consecutive weekends.
NSmen who fail to turn up for IPPT without any valid reasons will be disciplined by their respective Parent Units. NSmen who claim to be unwell during the Retest and Remedial Retests will be sent home and advised to see their own doctor. They will have to produce a medical certificate on the following weekend to their Parent Unit.
The SCDF 100 will be issued to NSmen if they are required to be called up for Make-up IPPT, Retest and Remedial Retests. SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 19 e. Mobilisation Exercise
In silent mobilisation, telephones, handphones, display pagers and facsimile machines are used to recall NSmen.
NSmen from the activated units must then report to their mobilisation centre immediately. The exercise does not usually exceed 1 day.
f. Civil Resource Requisition
The Requisition of Resources Act allows the government to mobilise civil resources during times of crisis. Some examples of civil resources are: vehicles, construction equipment, workshops and warehouses.
Payment for the use of these resources and for any damage done to them will be made. g. Other NS Activities
Briefing for ICT Briefing for Mobilisation Exercises Workplan Briefing Seminar Medical Review Make-up Training Rehearsals for National Day Parade Any other activity deemed necessary 20 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
“National Service has been the bedrock of Singapore's peace and prosperity for the last 30 years. We cannot afford to be lax about our nation's defence. It is important that Singaporeans continue to wholeheartedly support National Service.”
Dr Tony Tan Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence (1997) SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 21
MAKING IT EASIER FOR EMPLOYERS TO SUPPORT NATIONAL SERVICE EMPLOYER’S BULLETIN BOARD MINDEF has always recognised that employers of NSmen play a crucial role in supporting the commitment of our NSmen to the defence of Singapore. Over the years, numerous measures have been introduced to strengthen their support for NS. MINDEF now provides an online platform for employers to interact with MINDEF through the e-Bulletin for Employers, at miw.com.sg. It equips employees with essential knowledge on NS policies and programmes relevant to them. Transactions can be made between MINDEF and employers in the administration of NSmen employees eg. E-Make Up Pay Claim. Employers now have easy access to information such as NS call-ups and MINDEF’s deferment guidelines to assist them in planning and organising their organisational requirements to accommodate their NSmen employees’ training schedules.
The URL of the Bulletin Board is: http://content.miw.com.sg/Mindef/Static/Employers/ BulletinBoard/empl_bulletin_generalinfo.asp
EXIT CONTROL a. Notification of Overseas Trips NSmen are given 10-year passport validity like other citizens without NS liability. If they go overseas for more than 24 hours but less than 6 months, they only need to notify their respective Notification Centres at the corresponding numbers:
Telephone Fax SMS E-mail
SAF 1800-364 6333 6364 6333 9764 6333 [email protected] SPF 1800-533 6012/3 6223 5650 - [email protected] SCDF 1800-287 4091 6283 3486 - [email protected]
Today, our NSmen are travelling abroad more frequently for work, study or leisure and such notification lets the SAF, SPF and SCDF know the whereabouts of their men at all times. 22 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
b. Exit Permit Should you require your NS employee to travel overseas for 6 months or more in a single trip, he is required to apply for an exit permit (EP). An SAF NSman can apply for an exit permit through the Internet at:
http://www.miw.com.sg
Alternatively, he may apply for the EP through the Self-Help Terminals located at:
>>> EXIT PERMIT OFFICE Central Manpower Base (CMPB) Depot Road Singapore 109680 Tel: 6373 3139 E-mail: [email protected] * Operating hours:8am-9pm (Weekdays) 8am-5pm (Saturdays) * Subject to change
Once his application is approved, he will be given an Electronic EP (eEP) number for reference. No hardcopy EP will be issued.
No documentary proof is required to support the eEP application. However, the system will randomly select applications to submit documentary proof for verification.
For SPF NSmen, he may wish to apply for EP through Internet at:
http://www.spinet.gov.sg
Alternatively, he may apply at the following address:
>>> EXIT PERMIT OFFICE Police National Service Department 391 New Bridge Road #02-707 Blk D Police Cantonment Complex Singapore 088762 Tel: 6557 5841 Fax: 6223 5650 E-mail: [email protected] Operating Hours: 8.30am - 5.30pm (Weekdays) 8.30am - 3pm (Saturdays)
Documentary proof is required to support the exit permit application. SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 23
For SCDF NSmen, he may wish to apply for EP through Internet at:
http://www.scdf.gov.sg
Alternatively, he may apply at the following address:
>>> CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRE HQ Singapore Civil Defence Force 91 Ubi Avenue 4 Singapore 408827 Tel: 6848 3463/ 64 Fax: 6283 3486 E-mail: [email protected] Operating Hours: 8.30 am - 5.30 pm (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday) 8.30 am - 8.30 pm (Wednesday) 8.30 am - 1.00 pm (Saturday)
Documentary proof is required to support the exit permit application. c. Disruption from NS Should you intend to station or post your NS employee overseas for a year or longer, he has to apply for an EP and disruption from NS. An NSman who is disrupted does not have to report for any NS duty or training. But the period of disruption is not counted towards his NS training cycle.
If your employee has been scheduled for NS duty within 6 months from the date of eEP application, his application must be recommended by his NS unit before applying for the eEP. Otherwise, he can apply for EP through the Internet directly. Upon approval of his eEP, he will be disrupted from NS.
ADVANCE NOTIFICATION FOR NS CALL-UP NSmen are informed of their NS call-up through the issue of an official call-up notice known as the SAF 100 for SAF NSmen, NP76 for Police NSmen and SCDF 100 for SCDF NSmen. The SAF, SPF and SCDF give about 2 to 6 months of advance notice for NS call-ups.
On receipt of the call-up notice, NSmen are required to inform their employers of their impending call-up by forwarding the relevant copy of the call-up notice to their employers and returning the acknowledgement copy to their NS units. The advance notice is given to help NSmen and their employers plan work schedules, make adjustments and alternative arrangements in the workplace. 24 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
DEFERMENT a. Call-up patterns NSmen are liable to serve 40 days of NS in a workyear which commences from 1 April of a calendar year to 31 March of the following year. On average, they are usually called up for an ICT of 2 to 3 weeks and another 2 to 3 shorter activities ranging from 1 to 6 days depending on their units' annual training programme. In some years, NSmen are not called up for ICT because their units go through low-key years i.e. lull period with no significant training activities.
b. Importance of Unit Cohesion Generally, NSmen are required to report for duties and train as a cohesive unit according to the unit's training schedule. But we understand that there are occasions when an NSman needs to be excused from a particular call-up. Deferment excuses the NSman from a scheduled call-up to train with his unit. But he has to perform make-up training, usually with another unit, within the same workyear.
c. Considerations for Deferment Deferment from NS training is strongly discouraged because it affects unit training and cohesion. Being a citizen's army, almost all our NSmen have work commitments in their civilian capacity. While we understand the concerns and needs of employers and companies, we cannot compromise our training and operational requirements. Thus deferments may be granted only under exceptional circumstances such as:
a. On compassionate grounds; for example - marriage, wife's delivery, next-of-kin is seriously ill etc.;
b. New employment
c. Examination for part-time studies (but only one such deferment is allowed in a workyear);
d. Simultaneous call-ups of two or more NSmen within the same department and who are employed in the same capacity.
Should you have problems releasing your NS employee for ICT, you or your employee can apply to the NS unit with the relevant supporting documents at least 10 weeks before his scheduled ICT. For MINDEF/ SAF, the application forms are available at units and SAFRA clubs, for SPF and SCDF, the forms are available at the respective Divisions/ Units. Alternatively, NSmen can write to their NS units stating the following details: SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 25
Name/ NRIC No./ NS unit Duration of ICT Type of ICT Reasons for deferment application Personal contact numbers a. SAF
NS units SAFRA Clubs NSAD for Army NSmen Air Force Manpower Operations & National Servicemen Branch for Air Force NSmen (AFNSB) Naval National Servicemen Branch for Navy NSmen (NNSB) b. SPF
Divisions/ Units PNS Department c. SCDF
Division HQ/ Camps HQ SCDF
RECOGNITION AND AWARDS FOR EMPLOYERS The government recognises that support and commitment of employers of NSmen is vital. MINDEF and MHA have implemented programmes to reach out to employers and to garner their support for Total Defence. We have also introduced awards to honour employers who make significant contributions to NS and Total Defence.
SAF PROGRAMMES FOR EMPLOYERS a. Employers’ Visit and Dialogue Sessions
One visit is organised each year for about 100 employers to witness their employees’ training during ICT. Such visits give you first-hand knowledge of what NS training entails. The programme usually lasts half a day; and employers are also given the opportunity to seek clarification or give feedback on NS issues.
A dialogue session is also organised each year to communicate with the employers on the importance of NS and the changes in NS polices. Similarly, it is another channel for employers to air their concern and clarify doubts about NSmen issues, e.g. pay matters. 26 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
b. The SAF Award for Employers
This award was introduced in 1986 for the SAF to show its appreciation to employers who have contributed towards national defence activities.
NSmen are encouraged to nominate their employers who have been supportive towards NS.
Nominations can be made in writing to NSAD, or through pre-designed nomination cards which are available at all NS units/ training centres and National Service Resort & Country Club. Nominations can also be made through the Internet: http://www.mindef.gov.sg/forms/employer.html
The awards will be presented to the winners at an annual presentation ceremony and dinner hosted by the Minister for Defence in honour of supportive employers.
Award winners will enjoy exclusive NS Resort & Country Club, and SAFRA Clubs, Temasek Club and the SAF Yacht Club corporate privileges and will be invited to attend various SAF/ MINDEF functions.
c. Rededication Ceremony
This programme was introduced in 1987 to give employers an opportunity to publicly pledge their support for national defence.
Employers can volunteer to conduct the ceremony either on an individual or combined basis for their NS employees to rededicate themselves to the SAF and to the Total Defence of Singapore.
Such ceremonies are held in conjunction with SAF Day celebrations on 1 July every year.
You may approach NSAD for assistance if you wish to participate in or organise such a ceremony.
> NATIONAL SERVICE AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT 5 Depot Road #11-01 Singapore 109681 Tel: 6373 3208 Fax: 6277 3215 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 27
SPF AND SCDF PROGRAMMES FOR EMPLOYERS a. Employers’ Visit
The visit was introduced in 1997 to enable employers of PNSmen and CDNSmen to better understand and witness their employees’ training during National Service.
The annual event also serves to foster a stronger and sustained relationship between employers and the two uniformed Forces within the Home Team.
b. The MHA Award For Employers
The Award was introduced in 1997 to show MHA’s appreciation to employers of PNSmen and CDNSmen who have contributed towards NS activities.
Nominations can be made by the PNSmen and CDNSmen through nomination forms which are available at their respective Divisions/ Units.
The awards will be presented to the winners at an annual presentation ceremony hosted by the Minister or Minister of State for Home Affairs. 28 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
MEDICAL BENEFITS AND COMPENSATION FOR NSMEN During NS training, stringent safety precautions are taken to prevent and minimise the risk of accidents for the safety of our NSmen. At the same time, we have comprehensive medical benefits and compensation for NSmen should they injure themselves as a result of NS duties.
MEDICAL BENEFITS For any injuries received in and which are attributable to service, the government will provide free medical benefits in government and re-structured hospitals to the NSmen, up to their ward eligibility. Employers will not be burdened with the cost of medical treatment for any service injury of their NS employees.
EX-GRATIA PAYMENTS When a service injury results in medical and hospitalisation leave beyond the ICT, the government will consider paying the NSman an ex-gratia payment (based on civilian pay or regular's pay, whichever is higher) if his employer is not prepared to pay him during his period of incapacity. The government will also consider reimbursement of the CPF contributions made by his employer during the period.
When an NSman is unable to continue with the ICT due to non-service injuries and his ICT is disrupted, MINDEF, SPF and SCDF will continue to pay him service pay and make-up pay (where applicable ) for the period of medical leave, till the end of the medical leave or original ICT period, whichever is earlier. This payment is made on an ex-gratia basis.
DISABILITY COMPENSATION/ PENSION If a service injury results in permanent disability, the government will compensate the NSman according to his degree of permanent disability, endorsed by the appropriate medical authority.
If the NSman suffers incapacity resulting in his discharge from national service, he may be eligible for a disability pension.
DEATH COMPENSATION/ DEPENDENT'S PENSION If a service injury is fatal, the NSman's dependents will receive a death compensation. His dependents are also eligible for consideration of a dependent's pension.
DEATH GRATUITY If an NSman dies during ICT due to other causes not related to service, his dependants shall be paid a death gratuity. SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 29
NSMEN PAYMENTS TYPES OF PAY COMPONENTS As an NSman, your employee will receive:
Service Pay - This is based on the NSman’s rank and vocation for the NS training.
Service Pay = Rank Allowance + Combat Allowance
Make-up Pay - If the NSman suffers a loss in his civilian income as a result of attending NS training, he is eligible to claim make-up pay from MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF
Make-up Pay = Loss in Civilian Income - Service Pay
HOW TO CLAIM MAKE-UP PAY There are 2 options for employed NSmen to claim make-up pay:
Option 1: Payment Through Employers (Optional Scheme for Employers)
The employer will continue to pay the NSman as per the company’s pay schedule when the NSman attends NS training.
Thereafter, the employer will claim reimbursement (service pay and make-up pay) directly from MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF.
Employers can file their claims online via our e-MUPclaim service (only applicable to MINDEF/ SAF NSmen) or manually by using the Employer Claim Statement, which can be obtained from the following sources:
Download from miw.com.sg MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF
How To Join The Scheme To enrol in this scheme, employers must submit the Employer's Option Form (download from miw.com.sg). 30 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
Option 2: NSman Claims Reimbursement Directly From MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF
The employer will certify NSman’s make-up pay claim and submit to MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF.
NSman will be reimbursed directly by MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF thereafter.
Make-up pay claims can be submitted using hardcopy claim forms or online via e-MUPclaim (only applicable to NSmen from SAF-MINDEF).
For NSmen employed in Ministries or Statutory Boards The NSman will continue to receive his civilian pay from the respective Ministry or Statutory Board during the period of his NS training.
The Ministry or Statutory Board should submit a claim only if the NSman’s service pay exceeds his civilian pay.
For NSmen who are employed by more than one employer or who are employed as well as self-employed The NSman should submit an individual claim form for each employer or type of employment. SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 31
TYPES OF CLAIMABLE/ NON CLAIMABLE ALLOWANCES (FOR EMPLOYED NSMEN) Claimable The allowance must be received on a regular basis for at least 4 months out of the last 6 months preceding the NS training
The allowance must be taxable and subject to CPF contribution
It must be included in the NSman’s employment or service contract
It must not be of a reimbursement nature
Non Claimable If allowance is not received for at least 4 months out of the past 6 months and no reason is provided, this will be disapproved
Examples of allowances of a reimbursement nature which are not claimable:
> Meal Allowance > Travelling Allowance > Laundry Allowance > Entertainment Expenses
COMPUTING LOSS OF CIVILIAN INCOME DURING NS TRAINING The formula used to compute the loss of income:
The employer should use the same formula used in the company for pro-rated pay computation.
E.g. In-Camp Training (ICT) from 1 March to 20 March 2002 (20 days) and company is on a 5-day work week.
= Total Salary x Number of working days during the ICT period Number of working days in the month
= $800 x 14 (less Sat & Sun during the ICT period) 21 (less Sat & Sun in Mar 2002)
= $533.33
Public holidays should be considered as paid working days and should not be excluded from the computation of loss of income. 32 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
HOW SHOULD THE EMPLOYER ADJUST THE NSMAN’S CIVILIAN INCOME IN THE MONTH OF NS TRAINING? The employer should compute the actual amount due to NSman for the remaining days that he works in the company in the month of NS training instead of simply deducting off the amount paid by MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF from his salary if the NSman is receiving allowances which are not of a fixed quantum.
E.g. In-Camp Training (ICT) from 1 March to 20 March 2002 (20 days) and company is on a 5-day work week.
Basic Salary: $800.00 (fixed) Overtime Allowance: $215.20 p.m. (average)
> Loss in Civilian Income (to be compensated by MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF in terms of service pay and make-up pay):
$1,015.20 x 14 (20 ICT days less Sat & Sun in March 02) 21 (less Sat & Sun in March 02)
= $676.80
> Amount to be paid by employer in March 02:
$800 x 7 (11 remaining days less Sat & Sun in March 02) 21 (less Sat & Sun in March 02)
= $266.67 + $50*
* (actual overtime clocked from 21 March to 31 March 2002)
The total amount to be paid to the NSman in the month of training would be:
$676.80 + [$266.67 + $50] (MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF) (Employer)
= $993.47 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 33
NOTIFICATION OF NSMAN’S RESIGNATION OR CHANGES IN SALARY The employer must notify MINDEF (NSmen Payments, Payroll & Allowances Division)/ SPF (PNSmen Personnel Officers)/ HQ SCDF (Salaries & Allowances Branch, Finance Department) immediately if there are any changes to the NSman’s salary after the submission of the claim as a result of:
Resignation Pay Revision Salary Adjustment before or during the NS training
CPF CONTRIBUTION In accordance with CPF regulations, both the employer and NSman must continue to contribute their share of CPF at the same rate throughout the NSman's NS training.
VERIFICATION OF MAKE-UP PAY CLAIM In accordance with Regulation 9 of the Enlistment (Loss of Salaries & Wages - Reimbursement) Regulations 1978, authorised personnel of MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF may conduct visits to companies in order to verify the claims. An Authorisation Card will be used to identify such personnel and employers are requested to give access to all documents related to the claims.
PAYMENT SCHEDULE FOR NS ACTIVITIES AND ALLOWANCES For SAF NSmen Payments to NSmen and employers (who are on the Payment Through Employers Scheme) are scheduled thrice weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and are credited into the NSmen/ employers’ bank accounts registered with MINDEF.
The payment schedule for local & overseas training is as follows:
Local Training Within 14 days from the start of training.
Overseas Training Within 2 to 3 days before the date of departure (if advance payment is arranged) 34 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
For SPF NSmen Payments to NSmen and employers (who are on the Payment Through Employers Scheme) are scheduled on Fridays and are credited into the NSmen/ employers’ bank accounts registered with SPF.
For SCDF NSmen Within 11 days from the start of training
SUBMISSION OF CLAIMS For SAF NSmen Make-up Pay claims can be submitted online via our e-MUP claim service or manually using the designated claim forms. To reduce processing time, employers are strongly encouraged to use e-MUPclaim.
To file an e-MUPclaim, either the NSmen or the employers can initiate the claim. However, employers must first register for the service. The employer will receive a PIN via post after registering.
If you opt for the manual mode, the claim forms can be obtained from the following sources:
Download from miw.com.sg Community Clubs SAFRA Clubhouses NS Units
For SPF NSmen Make-up Pay claims can be submitted using the designated claim forms. The claim forms can be obtained from the following sources:
NSmen’s Police Divisions or units
For SCDF NSmen Make-up Pay claims can be submitted using the designated claim forms (Form A). SCDF will mail the Form A to the NSmen together with the ICT order. The claim forms can also be obtained from the following sources:
Download from scdf.gov.sg Division HQ/ Camps SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 35
DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING CLAIM For prompt payment, the NSman and the employer are advised:
To submit the e-claim 7 days before the training commences. (only applicable to NSmen from SAF-MINDEF)
To submit the hardcopy claim to reach MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF 3 weeks before the training commences.
Not to submit the claim too early before NS training as NSman’s pay information may not be accurate and current.
That make-up pay claims must be submitted to reach MINDEF (NSmen Payments, Payroll & Allowances Division)/ SPF (PNSmen Personnel Officer)/ HQ SCDF (Salaries & Allowances Branch, Finance Department) not later than 3 months after the payment of service pay. Supporting documents can be submitted later if they are not available at the time of submission of the claim form.
DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING APPEAL When there is a dispute in the quantum approved, NSmen or their employers may appeal in writing to MINDEF (NSmen Payments, Payroll & Allowances Division)/ SPF (Finance Officer EOM/ PNS Section)/ HQ SCDF (Salaries & Allowances Branch, Finance Department) not later than 3 weeks from the date on which the Make-up Pay is paid. The following details have to be given:
the amount of Make-up Pay claimed grounds for dispute 36 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
FAQs NATIONAL SERVICE LIABILITIES
Q1: How often will my NS employee be called up for National Service (NS)? A: He may be called up for a maximum of 40 days of service each workyear. The workyear begins on 1 April of a calendar year and ends on 31 March of the following year. He may be called up for various activities such as:
• In-Camp Training (ICT) • Mobilisation • Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT)
Q2: After being phased into MINDEF RESERVE (MR), is the MR personnel still liable for NS? A: MR personnel are still liable for NS. Although they have completed their NS training cycle, their NS liability will cease when they reach their statutory age (50 years old for NS Officers and 40 years old for NS WOSEs).
Q3: What is the difference between Annual ICT and Flexi- ICT? A: Annual ICT applies to NSmen who are called up once every year. For Flexi-ICT, NSmen are called-up more than once a year and at shorter intervals.
DEFERMENT
Q1: What is deferment? A: Deferment from NS allows an NSman to postpone his NS call-up to a later date within the same workyear. The workyear commences from 1 April of the current year to 31 March of the following year. He will have to undergo make-up training for the deferred call-up within the same workyear. Deferment is not encouraged as it affects unit cohesiveness and operational readiness.
Q2: Under what circumstances can an NSman apply for deferment? A: Deferment may be granted for the following reasons:
• Compassionate grounds e.g. marriage, wife's delivery, next- of-kin is seriously ill etc. • New employment • Newly established business • Examination for part-time studies • Simultaneous call-up of 2 or more NSmen who are employed in the same capacity in the same department. SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 37
Q3: How does an NSman apply for deferment? A: Applications can be made to his unit with the relevant supporting documents at least 10 weeks before his scheduled ICT. For MINDEF/ SAF, the application forms are available at the units and SAFRA clubs. For SPF and SCDF, the forms are available at the respective Divisions/ Units. Alternatively, NSmen can write to their NS units stating the following details:
• Name/ NRIC No./ NS unit • Duration of ICT • Type of ICT i.e. Upgrading Course, BCTC • Reasons for deferment application • Personal contact numbers
Q4: When will he be informed of the outcome of his deferment applications? A: NSmen whose applications meet approved guidelines will be informed of the decision within 2 weeks. The remaining cases will be considered under the competitive priority system based on past attendance records and likelihood to complete the NS training. All applicants will be given a decision at least 1 month before the ICT.
Q5: If my NS employee has notified the respective notification centres of his overseas trip that coincides with his in-camp training, does he still need to apply for deferment? A: Yes. Notifying the respective notification centre does not give him automatic deferment. He still has to apply to his unit for deferment.
Q6: I wish to postpone my employee's in-camp training to a later date. What do I have to do? A: Deferment from in-camp training due to work commitment is discouraged as it affects unit cohesiveness and operational readiness. NSmen are given at least 2 to 6 months’ advance notice of their call-ups so that employers can adjust their workplans to enable their employees to attend the scheduled ICT. However, if there are exceptional circumstances, NSmen should write to their unit, with their employer's supporting documents, at least 10 weeks before the ICT. 38 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
Q7: My employee's NS unit informed him that his application for deferment has not been approved. How do I make an appeal against this decision? A: You may submit an appeal to his unit for reconsideration. His unit will review your request. If they still do not agree to defer the NSman, the appeal will be forwarded to the Formation, thereby ensuring that your appeal on his behalf is being considered by a higher authority.
Q8: I would like my employee to be granted time-off on certain days or evenings during his in-camp training but I do not wish for him to be deferred from the entire training. Is there any way to accommodate my request? A: Time-off during training would depend on the unit's training schedule, e.g. whether there is night training or regimental duties. You could submit your request for his time-off to his unit and this would be accommodated if the training schedule permits.
DISRUPTION
Q1: What is disruption? A: Disruption allows an NSman to postpone his National Service for 1 year or longer. There are two types of disruption:
• Local • Overseas
Local • An NSman can be considered for disruption if he is pursuing full-time non-tertiary studies in an approved local institution. NSmen pursuing full-time tertiary studies in local institutions such as the universities and polytechnics are not disrupted and may be called up for ICT during their vacations. They may also be called up for IPPT and are liable for mobilisation.
Overseas • Overseas NSmen going abroad for work, study or training for 1 year or more are eligible to apply for disruption from national service. SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 39
Q2: How does an NSman apply for disruption? What supporting documents are required? A: For local disruption, he can apply directly to:
a) i. MINDEF/ SAF - His NS unit, ii. SPF - Exit Permit Office iii. SCDF - Divisons/ Units
b) His respective NS Personnel Management Centre at the following address:
MINDEF/ SAF Army NSmen National Service Affairs Department (NSAD) 5 Depot Road #11-01 Singapore 109681 Tel: 62773245 Fax: 6277 3215
Air Force NSmen Air Force Manpower Operations & National Servicemen Branch (AFNSB) 303 Gombak Drive #B1-09 Singapore 669645 Tel: 6768 3040 Fax: 6768 2576
Navy NSmen Naval National Servicemen Branch (NNSB) 5 Depot Road #08-01 Singapore 109681 Tel: 63731238 Fax: 6373 1245
SPF NSmen Police National Service Department Exit Permit Office 391 New Bridge Road #02-707 Blk D Police Cantonment Complex Singapore 088762 Tel: 6557 8541 Fax: 6223 5650
SCDF NSmen National Service Personnel Department HQ Singapore Civil Defence Force 91 Ubi Avenue 4 Singapore 408827 Tel: 6848 3463/ 64 Fax: 6283 3486
At the point of application, he must furnish the necessary supporting documents such as proof of enrolment at a local institution. 40 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
REQUIREMENT FOR NSMEN TO REPORT WHEN GOING OVERSEAS
Q1: Why do NSmen have to furnish the MINDEF eServices Centre (MeSC)/ SPF and SCDF notification centres with information of their overseas trips? A: NSmen have a specific operational role to play in an emergency. It is crucial for them to remain contactable when they are abroad. Keeping their respective NS agencies informed of their whereabouts would allow them to know exactly how many NSmen are in Singapore and where to reach those who are overseas quickly in an emergency.
Q2: Who should give notification of their overseas trips? A: All NSmen below the age of 50 years for officers and 40 years for Warrant Officers, Specialists and Enlisted Personnel who are leaving Singapore for more than 24 hours and less than 6 months are required to give notification of their overseas trips. Upon reaching the age of 50 years (for Officers) and 40 years (for other ranks), NSmen are no longer required to give notification. Those who are disrupted from National Service for overseas trips or have an Exit Permit need not give notification.
Q3: How should an NSman go about providing information of his whereabouts overseas? A: They can do so through:
MINDEF/ SAF - Tel: 1800-364 6333 - SMS: 9764 6333 - Fax: 1800-364 6333 - Internet at: http://www.miw.com.sg - Email: [email protected] - Mail to: MINDEF eServices Centre 7 Bedok South Rd Singapore 469272
SPF - Tel: 1800-533 6012/ 3 - Fax: 6223 5650 - E-mail: [email protected] - Internet at: http://www.spinet.gov.sg
SCDF - Tel: 1800-287 4091 - Fax: 6283 3486 - E-mail: [email protected] - Internet at: http://www.scdf.gov.sg SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 41
Q4: What will happen if an NSman goes overseas without informing his respective agency? A: Offenders may be fined up to $2,000 upon conviction and may also have their Exit Permit privileges restricted. For recalcitrant offenders, their privilege of not being required to apply for an Exit Permit may be withdrawn when they travel overseas for less than 6 months. Their full passport facilities will be withdrawn. This means that they will have to apply for an Exit Permit every time they go overseas.
Q5: My NS employee is going overseas for business. Does he need to apply for an exit permit? A: An NSman need not apply for an exit permit (EP) if his overseas trip is less than 6 months. However, he has to inform the respective notification centre if his trip exceeds 24 hours. He may notify MeSC by phone at 1800-3646333(toll-free) or by fax to 1800-3646333, SPF Exit Permit Office at Tel:1800-533 6012/ 3 or fax at 6223 5650 and SCDF Overseas Notification Centre at Tel: 1800-287 4091 or fax at 6283 3486. If the duration of his overseas trip is more than 6 months but less than 1 year, he will need to have his unit's recommendation before applying for an EP. On the other hand, if the duration of his overseas trip is 1 year or longer, he will need to apply for an EP and disruption from NS.
Q6: What will happen if an NSman goes overseas without applying for an Exit Permit? A: An NSman needs to apply for an Exit Permit (EP) if his overseas trip is 6 months or more. NSmen who remain overseas for more than 6 months without a valid EP will become EP defaulters. Upon conviction, EP defaulters may be fined up to $5000 or 3 years’ imprisonment or both.
Q7. If an NSman is required to travel in and out of Singapore a few times per month to the same destination, must he notify his respective agency each time he travels overseas? A: He may make a one-time notification to cover a maximum period of one month for the overseas trips to the same destination. 42 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
Q8: If an NSman is required to leave the country immediately, how can he inform his respective agency of his overseas trip? A: He can inform the agency when he is overseas or request a proxy (above 16 years old), e.g. a family member or his company, to do so on his behalf.
Q9: After notifying the respective agency, does that mean that NSmen do not need an Exit Permit? A: The requirement for an Exit Permit remains the same i.e. an NSman will be required to apply for an Exit Permit if he is staying overseas for 6 months or more. However, once a person has been granted an Exit Permit, he is deemed to have notified his agency of his overseas trip.
Q10: What should NSmen do if they notify their agencies and do not leave the country? A: They should call to cancel the previous notification.
Q11: Will an NSman be excused from mobilisation after he has notified his agency and is issued with an acknowledgement code? A: NSmen are excused from mobilisation only if they are overseas and have documentary proof (e.g. passport). Notification of overseas trip is not a form of documentary proof for exemption from mobilisation and IPPT.
ELIGIBILITY FOR SERVICE INJURY COMPENSATION FOR NSMEN
Q1: How do I know whether my NS employee is eligible for compensation? A: The SAF (Pensions) Regulations provides for compensation awards for injuries that are received in and attributable to service. This includes injuries sustained under the following circumstances:
a. Whilst on a journey necessary to report for service or on the way home after service; e.g. travelling a normal route from home to report for in-camp training or from unit to home after training.
Or
b. In consequence of some act lawfully performed in the discharge of the member's duties. e.g. while performing training scheduled in the unit training programme. However, injuries which are sustained within a serviceman's own personal sphere cannot be considered as received in, and SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 43
attributable to, service; e.g. while on in-camp training, your NS employee books out of camp to run a personal errand and meets with a traffic accident either on the way out or back to camp, resulting in injuries.
Q2: What should my NS employee do when he sustains an injury during NS training? A: In the event of an injury during NS training, he needs to:
MINDEF/ SAF a. Report immediately to his unit Medical Officer and S1 or Conducting Officer (for non-ICT IPPT) so the unit can arrange to attend to his injury(ies) and document his injury sustained in the medical docket.
b. Complete the injury report which covers his personal details and details of the date/ time and circumstances of the injury.
c. Submit witness(es) statement and medical reports on his injury sustained (if applicable) to substantiate his request for injury compensation. A traffic police report and a map detailing the route taken are also required where the circumstances involve a traffic accident.
His unit will submit the completed report and supporting documents to his NS Personnel Management Centre for review.
SPF In the event of an injury during NS training, he needs to:
a. Report immediately to his supervisor of his injury so that he can be conveyed to the nearest government/ restructured hospital for medical attention.
b. He must obtain from his employer his salary information for the 12 months immediately preceding the date of the accident.
His unit shall put up an Incident Report, which will cover the information of the date/ time and circumstances of the injury, and submit the completed report and supporting documents to PNSD.
SCDF In the event of an injury during NS training,he needs to:
a. Report immediately to his Conducting Officer or Division/ Unit Personnel Officer so that he can be conveyed to the nearest government/ restructured hospital for medical attention.
b. He must obtain from his employer his salary information for the 12 months immediately preceding the date of the accident.
His unit shall put up an Incident Report, which will cover the 44 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
information of the date/ time and circumstances of the injury, and submit the completed report and supporting documents to NS Personnel Department.
Q3: Is my NS employee eligible for free follow-up treatment and compensation if he is injured during NS training? A: Yes, he will be eligible for free medical benefits once his injury is recognised as a service injury. An identification document will be issued to him for free follow-up medical treatment at government/ re-structured hospitals. The hospitals are:
• Alexandra Hospital • Changi General Hospital • Kandang Kerbau Women's and Children's Hospital • National Skin Centre • National University Hospital • Singapore General Hospital • Singapore National Eye Centre • Tan Tock Seng Hospital • Institute of Mental Health
Should he suffer permanent disablility as a result of the service injury, his unit will arrange to convene a medical board for him. He will be eligible for compensation based on the percentage of permanent disability endorsed by the SAF Medical Board. We take a serious view of servicemen who do not take medical advice seriously to attend follow-up medical treatment for their service injury. NSmen who disregard medical advice to attend follow-up treatment for their service injury may receive a reduced compensation award.
Q4: Before MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF can determine that his injury is due to service, who will bear the cost of his medical expenses? A: While his NS agency is processing his case, he will have to bear all medical expenses. However, once his injury is certified to be attributable to service, all the medical expenses that he has incurred at government/ restructured hospitals will be reimbursed to him. He will be asked to submit to his Unit Manpower/ NSmen Personnel Officer the original medical bills, together with certification from the hospital doctor that the medical expenses are incurred for the treatment of that service injury(ies). SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 45
Q5: Will MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF reimburse medical expenses incurred in private hospitals? A: No, if he goes to a private hospital, he will bear all the medical expenses.
Q6: What should my NS employee do if he sustains an injury during NS training and is given hospitalisation/medical leave that extends beyond the period of his in-camp training? A: He has to immediately notify his superior (MINDEF/ SAF - unit Medical Officer and S1, SPF/ SCDF- Div/ Unit NSmen Personnel Officer) of his hospitalisation/medical leave. The procedures as spelt out at Q2 must then be observed. If his injury is assessed as a service injury, he will be eligible for ex-gratia payment if he suffers loss of income during his hospitalisation/ medical leave. He is required to submit to his unit the certification from you (the employer) that he is not paid during the period of medical leave. Arrangements will be made with Payment & Allowance Dept for the ex-gratia payment to him.
Q7: If an NSman sustains a non-service injury during his in-camp training, will he still be paid for loss of income? A: When he is unable to continue his in-camp training due to non-service injuries and his ICT is disrupted, he will continue to be paid service pay and make-up pay (where applicable) for the period of medical leave, till the end of the medical leave or original ICT period, whichever is earlier. However, this will not be counted towards the fulfilment of an ICT liability and he may be required to do make-up training subsequently. 46 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
NSMEN PAYMENTS
Q1: If there is a change in my NS employee’s training period, do I need to inform MINDEF/ SPF/ SCDF? A: MINDEF/ SAF If the NS training has been shortened or lengthened, we will be able to re-compute the change in NS training and pay your NS employee accordingly. Therefore, your company does not need to inform MINDEF.
E.g. Original NS training : 1 March to 20 March 2002 Amended NS training : 1 March to 15 March 2002 However, in the event that the NS training has been changed to an entirely new period, your company would need to inform MINDEF of the change.
E.g. Original NS training : 1 March to 20 March 2002 Amended NS training : 1 June to 20 June 2002 SPF/ SCDF The requirements are the same as SAF. SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 47
ADDRESSES & TELEPHONE NUMBERS In this final section of the handbook, we provide you the contact information of all agencies in the SAF, SPF and SCDF that deal with NSmen. We welcome your enquiries, suggestions and feedback on areas of particular interest to you.
SAF MINDEF eServices Centre One stop, “round the clock” operations to service MINDEF personnel, NS liables and general public on all MINDEF matters. Tel/ Fax: 1-800-eMINDEF (1-800-364-6333) MINDEF Portal: http://www.miw.com.sg
MINDEF Feedback Line Tel: 1800-760 8844 E-mail: [email protected]
National Service Affairs Department Enquiries on NS policies & matters of Army National Servicemen 5 Depot Road, #11-01 Singapore 109681 Tel: 6373 3245 Fax: 6277 3215 E-mail: [email protected]
Naval National Servicemen Branch Enquiries on NS policies & matters of Navy National Servicemen 5 Depot Road, #08-01 Singapore 109681 Tel: 6373 1238 Fax: 6373 1245 E-mail: [email protected]
Air Force Manpower Operations & National Servicemen Branch Enquiries on NS policies & matters of Air Force National Servicemen 303 Gombak Drive #B1-09, Singapore 669645 Tel: 6768 3040 Fax: 6768 2576
National Service Payment Branch Enquiries on all NSmen pay matters 5 Depot Road #13-01 Singapore 109681 Website: www.miw.com.sg (Check your NSmen employees’ payment details and status online) 24-hr voice response system at eMINDEF(1800-364 6333).
MINDEF Public Affairs General enquiries on defence and SAF matters 303 Gombak Drive #1-26 Singapore 669645 Tel: 6768 2307/ 3059 Fax: 6764 6119 E-mail: [email protected] 48 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
EXIT PERMIT OFFICE Extension of Passports and Exit Permit Applications Central Manpower Base (CMPB) 3 Depot Road Singapore 109680 Tel: 6373 3139 Fax: 6373 3173 Email: [email protected] *Operating hours: 8am-9pm (Weekdays) 8am-5pm (Saturdays)
*Subject to change
SPF Police National Service Department Enquiries on NS policies and matters of SPF NSmen Personnel Centre 391 New Bridge Road #03-501 Blk C Police Cantonment Complex Singapore 088762 Tel: 6557 5953/ 6557 5970 Fax: 6226 8446
PNSmen Personnel Officers of respective Divisions/ Units (please refer to Appendix I) General enquiries on NSmen matters
Singapore Police Force Service Improvement Unit General enquiries on Police matters Police Headquarters New Phoenix Park 28, Irrawaddy Road Singapore 329560 Tel: 1800-253 5525 Fax: 6256 1296 Email: [email protected]
Exit Permit Office Notification of Overseas trips that are more than 24 hours but less than 6 months, Extension of Passports and Exit Permit Application 391 New Bridge Road #02-707 Blk D Police Cantonment Complex Singapore 088762 Tel: 6557 5841 Fax: 6223 5650 Overseas Notification Tel: 1800-533 6012/ 3 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.spinet.gov.sg
Force Sports Office Enquiries on IPPT matters Police Academy Blk 4 Thomson Road Singapore 298333 Tel: 6359 4239 Fax: 6256 5197
EOM/ PNS Section Enquiries on all NSmen pay matters New Phoenix Park 28, Irrawaddy Road Singapore 329560 Tel: 6478 2385/ 2358 Fax: 6252 3570 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 49
Police Career Centre Enquiries on Police Recruitment matters Police Headquarters New Phoenix Park 28, Irrawaddy Road Singapore 329560 Tel: 6478 2324/ 6478 2325 Fax: 6253 7754 Website: www.spinet.gov.sg/career
SCDF National Service Personnel Department Enquiries on NS policies and matters of SCDF HQ Singapore Civil Defence Force 91 Ubi Avenue 4 Singapore 408827 Tel: 6848 3455/ 6 Fax: 6283 3486
Salaries & Allowances Branch, Finance Department Enquiries on all NSmen pay matters HQ Singapore Civil Defence Force 91 Ubi Avenue 4 Singapore 408827 Tel: 1800-287 4569 Fax: 6848 1628
Public Affairs Department General enquires on Civil Defence Matters HQ Singapore Civil Defence Force 91 Ubi Avenue 4 Singapore 408827 Tel: 6848 1503/ 18 Fax: 6289 4401
SCDF Overseas Notification Centre Notification of Overseas trips that are more than 24 hours but less than 6 months HQ Singapore Civil Defence Force 91 Ubi Avenue 4 Singapore 408827 Tel: 1800-287 4091 Fax: 6283 3486 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.scdf.gov.sg
Customer Service Centre Renewal of Passports, Application for Exit Permit and Disruption HQ Singapore Civil Defence Force 91 Ubi Avenue 4 Singapore 408827 Tel: 6848 3463/ 4 Fax: 6283 3486
SCDF Emergency Hotline Tel: 1800-286 5555
SCDF Enquiry/ Main Line Tel: 6280 0000/ 6367 7233 50 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
ABBREVIATIONS
AFNSB - Air Force Manpower Operations & National Servicemen Branch
CDANS - Civil Defence Association for National Servicemen
CMPB - Central Manpower Base
EOM - Expenditure of Manpower
EPO - Exit Permit Office
ICT - In-camp training
IPPT - Individual Physical Proficiency Test
KINs - Key Installation
MHA - Ministry of Home Affairs
MINDEF - Ministry of Defence
NNSB - Naval National Servicemen Branch
NS - National Service
NSmen - National Servicemen
NSAD - National Service Affairs Department
PCG - Police Coast Guard
PNS - Police National Service
PT - Physical Training
RT - Remedial Training
SAF - Singapore Armed Forces
SCDF - Singapore Civil Defence Force
SPANS - Singapore Police Association For National Servicemen
SPF - Singapore Police Force SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE 51
APPENDIX I Police Divisions and Units Phone Fax
Central Police Division 6557 5288 6223 9156 Clementi Police Division 6872 7958 6777 6020 Tanglin Police Division 6391 3481 6391 8450 Ang Mo Kio Police Division 6218 1040 6218 1011 Bedok Police Division 6244 7176 6244 7178 Jurong Police Division 6896 6859 6896 5643 Police Coast Guard 6447 1529 6447 3277 Traffic Police 6547 6345 6547 4900 Criminal Investigation 6435 8278 6225 4209 Department Airport Police 6546 3129 6542 8214 Training Command 6359 4210 6255 5600 (TRACOM) SPANS-JOM Clubhouse 6353 3131 6256 7137 SPANS Town Club 6738 6578 6235 7209
Civil Defence Establishments Phone Fax
HQ NS Personnel 6848 1727 6284 2048 Admin Centre HQ 1st CD Division 6355 7815 6253 1692 HQ 2nd CD Division 6342 4512 6440 2257 HQ 3rd CD Division 6488 2013 6282 1185 HQ 4th CD Division 6267 4017 6268 2212 Basic Rescue 6267 4080 6267 4078 Training Centre Civil Defence Academy 6794 5509 6794 5561 CDANS Country Club 6569 7702 6569 4453 (Bukit Batok) CDANS Sembawang Resort 6754 0922 6754 0211 CDANS Home Team Town Club (Smith Street) 6536 9986 6536 6056 52 SUPPORTING OUR NSmen AN EMPLOYERS’ GUIDE
NOTES
MINISTRY OF DEFENCE
Published by Mindef Public Affairs