9 Oct 2006

Termite-infested trees removed for safety reasons

1. We refer to Ms Jackie Lau Wai Wan’s letter, “Why cut down the old trees in Ang Mo Kio?" (Straits Times Forum, 27/9)
2. The site occupied previously by Mayflower Secondary School is currently being spruced up to hold another school, Peirce Secondary School, while its current site is being upgraded. During the sprucing up, two mature trees within the school compound and located along Ang Mo Kio St. 23, were found to be badly infested by termites.
3. In view of the safety considerations for students and staff, and after consulting with National Parks Board (NParks) and Ministry of Education (MOE), Peirce Secondary decided to have the two trees cut down.
4. We agree with Ms Lau that trees not only provide shade but also beautify the landscape. MOE works closely with NParks to conserve as many mature trees as possible within school sites, removing only those that would pose a hazard to students and staff. Through this, schools can provide a safe, clean and secure environment for learning.

Chua Kwan Ping
Director, Finance and Development Division