Larger and more frequent NS rank allowance increments proposed

Singapore: More frequent and larger increments in the rank allowance for NSmen is among the recommendations put up by the fifth committee set up to Recognise the Contributions of Operationally Ready National Servicemen to Total Defence or RECORD V (Five). 

Releasing its recommendations at a news conference Thursday, the committee chaired by Minister of State for Defence, Associate Prof Koo Tsai Kee also listed proposals such as enhanced fitness corners in housing estates for the Individual Physical Proficiency Test (or IPPT), a new SAFRA clubhouse in Punggol, and a HomeTeam NS clubhouse in the eastern part of Singapore. 

The committee said it identified five key considerations in coming up with the latest proposals. 

They are rising aspirations, the importance of leadership, encouraging fitness, globalisation and increased work demands, and building cohesion. 

To meet rising aspirations, the committee's recommendation was for more frequent and larger increments in rank allowance with the quantum of each increment based on the contribution of the NSman since his last increment. 

So as to better recognise NSmen in combat vocations, the committee also suggested a greater combat allowance so that the allowance premium given remains substantial throughout the operationally ready NS cycle. 

It was also proposed that those holding command appointments should be given an "add-on allowance" to recognise their greater demand and heavier responsibilities. 

Emphasizing the importance of family support for NSmen the committee suggested that NSmen who have performed well during in-camp training should be presented with vouchers for defence and national education related attractions. 

To encourage fitness, the committee said existing fitness corners in housing estates for IPPT training should be enhanced along with the creation of new fitness corners designed for such training. 

To help NSmen better balance their military training and work demands during in-camp training, current business centres within camps should be enhanced to provide wireless internet access. 

The committee also said NSmen should also be allowed to bring into camp their company-configured laptops, Blackberry devices and PDAs for use during non-training hours. 

Finally, the committee called for a new SAFRA clubhouse in Punggol, while Home Team NS could consider building one in the eastern part of Singapore. 

YES AH...!!