Singapore’s Parliament has rushed through amendments to a law giving extra protection for public health staff involved in the COVID-19 vaccine rollout.
Under the law, workers administering the vaccine shots and swab tests, as well as those answering 995 emergency calls, will be given more protection against abuse or harassment in the course of their duties.
In a statement, the Ministry of Home Affairs said these persons would be included as Public Service workers under the Protection from Harassment (Public Service Worker) Order, which falls under the Protection from Harassment Act.
The Act states that anyone who abuses, harasses or doxxes another person is liable for a jail term of up to six months or a fine of up to S$5,000 ($A4,944), or both.
Under Singapore’s law, doxxing is the act of publishing an individual’s personal information, such as photos and contact details, with a view to harass that person.
Workers delivering services essential to the public’s wellbeing or the proper functioning of the country are considered Public Service workers.
At present, they include healthcare professionals in public healthcare institutions, educators in public schools and public sanitation workers with Town Councils.
Now, other additions to the list of Public Service workers protected under the legislation include workers in crisis shelters and welfare homes; blood donation workers; and workers handling queries from the public about social services, among others.
“The law recognises the importance of protecting Public Servants and Public Service workers from harassment because of the critical roles they play,” the Ministry said.
Singapore, 4 July 2021
