The Public Service Division (PSD) is working with the Civil Service College to improve training in this aspect, said Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean.

Public officers are increasingly called upon to administer a host of measures to helpSingaporeans in this downturn.

'The public service is critically aware that the immediate measures needed to mitigate the effects of the downturn on Singapore and Singaporeans have to be carried out effectively and with empathy,' Mr Teo, who is Minister in charge of the Civil Service, said on Thursday in an addendum to the President's Address.

Mr Teo, who is also Defence Minister, also said the PSD will continue to improve the implementation of its 'No Wrong Door' policy introduced in 2004.

The policy requires a public agency that receives feedback which falls outside its purview to put the person in touch with the right agency.

He also noted the importance of keeping in close touch with concerns on the ground so as to make policies relevant to the needs of all Singaporeans.

Public officers are strongly encouraged to seek views from those who will be affected by the policies, and senior officers are already attached to grassroots organisations to gain ground experience.

A related issue is to inculcate a stronger service ethos across all levels of the public service, Mr Teo said. Although it has done well in international surveys for providing service, the 'public expectations of service standards have increased, and issues are more complex', he said.

Mr Teo also outlined efforts to invest in talent. He noted that the recession has allowed the PSD to step up recruitment of capable, committed people.

It needs bold, visionary leaders who can operate across agencies as one Government, are adaptable and serve people with 'humility, integrity and empathy'. Their training will involve overseas postings, cross-agency projects, and attachments to non-government and community organisations. The Civil Service College will enhance its leadership training programmes too.