We refer to the letter by Mr Mervyn Chan Ping on his unsuccessful deferment request (Unsuccessful reservist deferment costs NSman a job; March 7).

Mr Chan's request was rejected because he had abused previously granted deferments based on similar grounds.

The records show that Corporal (NS) Mervyn Chan had applied three times for Exit Permits for work overseas and was granted Exit Permits for all three applications. However, he was subsequently found to have returned to Singapore for an extended period of time, which was not consistent with the terms for which the Exit Permit was granted.

Furthermore, Mr Chan had an unresolved disciplinary offence.

Mindef does grant deferment for Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen) who need to work and reside overseas for an extended period of time.

In assessing these applications, the past history of the NSman and any unresolved disciplinary offences are also appropriately taken into consideration.

Lee Chung Wei

Director

Manpower

Ministry of Defence