Written Reply by Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen to Parliamentary Question on Evaluation Process for Altering National Serviceman's PES Status Due to Psychological Trauma or Difficulties

Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for Defence (a) what is the Central Manpower Base's process to evaluate the case for altering a National Serviceman's Physical Employment Standard (PES) status when one reports psychological trauma or difficulties; (b) what is the average time taken for this evaluation process before a resolution to change a PES status is concluded; and (c) what is the average time after the change of PES status is concluded before the Serviceman is reassigned to a different vocation or appointment.

Dr Ng Eng Hen: The Physical Employment Standard (PES) status of a Full-Time National Serviceman (NSF) with psychological conditions is determined by healthcare professionals after considering the individual's mental health concerns, treatment plan, and his suitability to serve in his assigned vocation. Safety of the individual and of those around him while he serves his duties within the SAF is an important consideration. Their assessment will include input from the individual's treating psychiatrist, if any.

The time required for observation and review varies according to each NSF and his condition. On average, the PES review process would take approximately six weeks to complete but more complex cases would take longer.

If a change to his PES status requires reassignment to another vocation, the NSF will be deployed to his new vocation and unit, typically in about two weeks.