Beef up security instead of closing dock

The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) is reportedly considering closing the dock along Changi Creek due to a recent case of smuggling, as well as national security and safety concerns ("Changi dock's days may be numbered"; Wednesday).

I find this puzzling. Shouldn't maritime matters and security, and the operation of the dock, come under the purview of authorities such as Singapore Customs and the Police Coast Guard? In what capacity is the AVA exercising authority over the maritime facility?

Closing down the dock seems to be a knee-jerk reaction that is unhealthy for our country's economy and food security.

The Police Coast Guard is enhancing security at Marina Reservoir to support major events that are staged in that area ("Police beef up waterway security with 2 new boats"; Wednesday).

Couldn't it do the same for the waters around Changi, and protect the livelihoods of the fish farmers and support their efforts to contribute to our country's food security?

Jerome Teo Zhen Peng

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on September 30, 2016, with the headline Beef up security instead of closing dock. Subscribe