Heard the below news report over the radio. Wanted to laugh. Read below report (courtesy of Channelnewsasia)


Public service officers satisfied with effectiveness of their service
By S. Ramesh, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 09 April 2008 1643 hrs

Public service officers satisfied with effectiveness of their service

SINGAPORE: Two-thirds of Singapore's public service officers feel their work has made an impact on themselves and society. This was revealed in a survey of 1,600 officers from 28 agencies which was conducted in the first half of 2007.

The Minister-in-Charge of the Civil Service, Teo Chee Hean, wants the public sector to build on this confidence. He said Singapore's public service can take satisfaction over the fact that its effectiveness has been the bedrock of Singapore's success today.

To further reinforce this message, there will be a Public Service Week in mid-May during which civil servants will take stock of the various programmes so far and look at ways to further enhance the effectiveness of the public service.

The minister added that Singapore's successful bid to host the inaugural Youth Olympic Games in 2010 serves as an important lesson for the civil service.

Mr Teo, who is also the president of the Singapore National Olympic Council, said it is all about passion and the united purpose of Team Singapore. And when the Youth Olympics kicks off, it is important that Singaporeans have a total welcoming atmosphere for the athletes and officials.

Mr Teo said: "I was in Manchester for the Commonwealth Games, and even on a weekday afternoon in the athletics heats, lots of people were cheering the athletes on. That is what I like to see from the people sector in Singapore."

However, he said that the protests surrounding the Olympic torch are unfortunate, as the Olympics is about celebrating sports.

Minister Teo continued: "I do hope we can set politics aside and enjoy the festival of sports, of what the Olympics is supposed to be and respect the torch for what it symbolises."

As for Singapore, he said the IOC assessment committee was impressed with what the country will deliver for the Youth Olympic Games. The challenge now is to fulfil that mission by 2010. - CNA/vm