SS Notes (Sec 3 Full Notes)

SS Notes 1:

Chapter 2 5.1: Traffic Control

Factors: Area Licensing Scheme, Electronic Road Pricing, Park & Ride Scheme and Vehicle Quota System

ALS: The Area Licensing Scheme is an important factor in controlling the flow of traffic in Singapore. Under this scheme, motorists had to pay to enter restricted zones. Gantries were set up to monitor motorists who entered the restricted zones. This decreased the overall number of cars entering the CBD, one of the restricted zones. For example, before the implementation of the ALS 32500 cars entered the CBD every morning. After the implementation of the ALS, only 7700 cars entered the CBD. As motorists have to pay to enter the CBD, they are deterred from entering the CBD frequently. Thus the ALS is an important factor in controlling the flow of traffic in Singapore.

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ERP: The ERP is an important factor in controlling the flow of traffic in Singapore. It uses up-to-date technology to monitor motorists entering the CBD and charge them accordingly. For example, a car entering the CBD will have to pay $3.00 while bus would have to pay $4.50. As motorists have to pay to enter the CBD, they are deterred from entering the CBD frequently. Thus, the ERP is an important factor in controlling the flow of traffic in Singapore

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PRS: The PRS is an important factor in controlling the flow of traffic in Singapore. Under this scheme, motorists could park their cars at car parks outside the CBD. They could then take public transport into the CBD, reducing the total amount of vehicles entering the CBD. For example, 7700 additional parking lots were created outside the CBD. The additional parking space gave motorists an incentive to take public transport as it was more convenient. Thus the PRS is an important factor in controlling the flow of traffic in Singapore.

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VQS: The VQS is an important factor in controlling the flow of traffic in Singapore. Under this system, a specific number of new cars are issued based on the quota set by the LTA. Car buyers must bid for a COE before purchasing a car, paying a quota premium if their bid is successful. In this way there is a limit on the number of new cars that can be purchased. For example, on April 2006 the quota for new motorcycles was 514 and the quota premium was $851. Thus the VQS is an important factor in controlling the flow of traffic in Singapore.

Basis of Comparison:

ERP>ALS: The ERP is more technologically efficient than the ALS at controlling the flow of traffic in Singapore. This is due to the automated gantries employed by the ERP as compared to the manual gantries set up by the ALS. The ALS was too labor-intensive and the Cisco guards employed were prone to making mistakes. Thus the ERP is more important in controlling the flow of traffic in Singapore.

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ERP>PRS: The ERP is more successful than the PRS in controlling the flow of traffic in Singapore. The ERP managed to reduce the total amount of motorists entering the CBD by 20% as compared to the ALS. However, the PRS cost millions of dollars but failed as motorists did not find it worthwhile to leave their cars parked outside the CBD all day. Thus, the ERP is more important in controlling the flow of traffic in Singapore.

ERP>VQS: The ERP is more successful than the VQS in controlling the flow of traffic in the CBD. While the VQS reduces the overall number of cars allowed on the roads, the ERP is able to specifically target the CBD area, a problematic area in Singapore. Thus, the ERP is more important in controlling the flow of traffic in Singapore.

Chapter 2 6.3: Promoting Population Growth

Factors: Graduate Mothers Scheme, Three or More policy, Pro-family measures and Foreign Talent

GMS: The GMS is an important factor in promoting population growth. It was introduced in 1984 to encourage marriages among graduates and to encourage graduates to have more children. This is due to the low birth rate among the well-educated in Singapore. Graduates were thus given incentives to have more children. For example, graduate mothers who gave birth to three or more children were given tax reliefs and priority for primary school admission for their children. Thus the GMS is an important factor in promoting population growth.

ToM: The three or more policy is an important factor in promoting population growth. It was introduced in 1987 to bring Singapore’s population growth back to the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman. Incentives were given to parents who had three or more children. For example, income tax reliefs were given for the first four children, monthly subsidies were given to working mothers with children in childcare centers and priority in public housing was given to families with three or more children. Thus the three or more policy is an important factor in promoting population growth.

PFM: The Pro-family measures package is an important factor in promoting population growth. It was introduced in 2004 with the aim of reducing the costs of raising children as well as improving on the lack of childcare arrangements available. Certain measures were put into place such as equalized medical benefits which allowed both parents to make medical claims for their children as well as a 5-day work week for the Civil Service in order for them to spend more time with their families. Thus the pro-family measures are an important factor in promoting population growth.

AFT: Attracting foreign talent is an important factor in promoting population growth. In 1989, Singapore relaxed its immigration policy to attract specialized foreign talent. They were offered easier entry into Singapore, subsidized housing and an attractive education package for the children of these foreign talents. For example, in 2004 over 350 000 PRs and 800 000 foreigners were living in Singapore, increasing the population of the country. The government hoped that some of these individuals would develop an attachment to Singapore and take up permanent residence or citizenship. Thus attracting foreign talent is an important factor in promoting population growth.

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PFM> GMS: The pro-family measures are a more important factor in promoting population growth than the GMS when we look at the number of people targeted. The GMS only targeted graduates which let to unrest among the less-educated. This displeasure led to the GMS being withdrawn after one year of implementation. The pro-family measures target all Singaporeans and offer a balanced package. Thus pro-family measures are a more important factor in promoting population growth.

PFM>ToM: The pro-family measures are a more important factor in promoting population growth than the three or more policy when we look at the number of people targeted. The three or more policy only targeted rich and large families while the pro-family measures targeted all Singaporean parents regardless of how many children they had. Thus, the pro-family measures are a more important factor in promoting population growth.

PFM>AFT: The pro-family measures are a more important factor in promoting population growth than attracting foreign talent when we look at long term impact. Attracting foreign talent cannot be a permanent solution to promote population growth as ultimately, many foreign talents view Singapore as a stepping stone to bigger countries. Thus, not many foreign talents would choose to stay in Singapore. Pro-family measures cater to Singaporean citizens, people who already have an attachment to the country. In this way pro-family measures offer a more stable way of promoting population growth as attracting foreign talent only provides an initial influx of people. Thus, pro-family measures are a more important factor in promoting population growth.

Chapter 2 7.2: Meeting the challenges of an ageing population

Factors: Individual Responsibility, Financial Planning, Family Support and Community Help

IR: Individual responsibility is an important factor in meeting the challenges of an ageing population. The individual can ensure that he ages gracefully through early lifelong planning. For example, the individual is encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle by watching his diet and exercising regularly. The individual is also encouraged to be financially prepared for old age by planning early. Individuals can do this by attending retirement talks and reading relevant materials. With a healthy lifestyle for example, the chances of falling ill decreases. Thus, individual responsibility is an important factor in meeting the challenges of an ageing population.

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FS: Family support is an important factor in meeting the challenges of an ageing population. The family is the main source of emotional, social and financial support. The government has introduced some measures to strengthen familial bonds. For example, Senior Citizens Week is held every November which encourages senior citizens to stay active in the family, Grandparents’ day is also commemorated in appreciation of the elderly. Thus, family support is an important factor in meeting the challenges of an ageing population.

CH: Community help is an important factor in meeting the challenges of an ageing population. The community can give social and emotional support and provide healthcare services. For example, organizations such as the Home Nursing Foundation for Elders provide services such as free health checks and organize recreational activities for senior citizens. These help senior citizens remain physically, mentally and socially active. Thus community help is an important factor in meeting the challenges of an ageing population.

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GS: Government support is an important factor in meeting the challenges of an ageing population. The government introduces laws to protect the interests of senior citizens. This ensures that senior citizens are not left financially vulnerable. For example, taxpayers can claim an income tax deduction for taking care of elderly parents, grandparents or great-grandparents. Also, first-time buyers of government flats can get a housing grant if they buy a flat in the area where their parents live. Thus, government support is an important factor in meeting the challenges of an ageing population.

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IR>FS: Individual responsibility is a more important factor than family support as it targets the root cause of the problem. If the individual is financially, physically and mentally well, there is no further need for the other factors to intervene. *(Can be used as one paragraph)*

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IR>CH: Individual responsibility is a more important factor than Community help as it is more effective in encouraging self-sufficiency. Individual responsibility encourages the individual to take care of his own affairs, be it health or financial issues. This sort of self-dependency is more desirable in meeting the challenges of an ageing population. Community help may cause the individual to self-degenerate as they do not feel the need to take care of themselves due to the availability of welfare organizations. Thus individual responsibility is a more important factor.

IR>GS: Individual responsibility is a more important factor than government support as it is more effective at meeting the different needs of every individual. Government support can only impose “one size fits all” laws which may not be effective in meeting everyone’s needs. However individual responsibility can be tailored to suit each individual’s needs and offers a more personalized alternative. Thus, individual responsibility is a more important factor.

SS Notes 2:

Chapter 3 3.2: Managing healthcare in Singapore

Factors: Encouraging Self Reliance, Keeping Healthcare affordable, Promoting a healthy lifestyle and Working with organizations

ESR: Encouraging self-reliance is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore. This helps Singaporeans pay for their healthcare without resorting to the government for help. This lightens the government’s load which eradicates the need for raised taxes. For example, Medisave and Medishield, two government policies, are made available to Singaporeans that help to manage healthcare in Singapore. Under Medisave, the individual and his employer make monthly contributions to CPF. Of this, 6.5% goes to Medisave which can then be used to pay for certain medical treatments. Medishield was introduced as an extension of Medisave. It is a national healthcare insurance scheme which can be paid for by Medisave. It pays for large medical bills that Medisave does not cover. Medishield pays for 80% of the healthcare deductible under this system.

The other 20% may be paid for in cash or via Medisave. Thus, encouraging self-reliance is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore.

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KHA: Keeping healthcare affordable is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore. The government provides safety nets to ensure that healthcare remains affordable to aid self-reliance. This is done through various policies such as, government subsidies and Medifund. In these policies, subsidies are given to government hospitals to ensure that healthcare services are available to all. In 2000, such subsidies made up 25% of government spending on healthcare. Medifund was set up in 1993 to provide help to those who do not contribute to CPF as their monthly income is too low. It started with a fund of $200 million and the interest from this is given to public hospitals. Thus keeping healthcare affordable is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore.

PHL: Promoting a healthy lifestyle is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore. It is one way of coping with rising costs of healthcare. For example, schools and workplaces have programs to emphasize the need to maintain good health. Thus, promoting a healthy lifestyle is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore. People in good health will not need medical treatment and the individual can then save on medical expenses.

WO: Working with organizations is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore. Voluntary welfare organizations and some private organizations are given grants to run community hospitals, nursing homes and day rehabilitation centers. For example, St. Luke’s Hospital and St. Andrew’s Hospital are examples of community hospitals. This helps take the burden off the government and the individual. Thus working with organizations is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore.

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ESR>KHA: Encouraging self-reliance is a more important factor than keeping healthcare affordable when we look at the reliability. Medisave is a set savings amount set aside in an individual’s CPF. Keeping healthcare affordable is subject to governmental control. Even if the policies set by the government change, the individual can always depend on his Medisave and Medishield to pay for his healthcare fees. Thus encouraging self reliance is a more important factor.

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ESR>PHL: Encouraging self-reliance is a more important factor than promoting a healthy lifestyle when we look at reliability. While leading a healthy lifestyle decreases the chances of falling ill it does not fully eradicate all chance of sickness. Encouraging self-reliance is therefore a much more reliable method as we can always depend on ourselves. Thus encouraging self-reliance is a more important factor.

ERS>WO: Encouraging self-reliance is a more important factor than working with organizations in terms of long term impact. Working with organizations cannot be a long term solution as an individual cannot depend on welfare organizations indefinitely. These organizations have limited

grants and cannot support everyone, encouraging self-reliance is much better at ensuring every individual has access to healthcare. Thus encouraging self-reliance is a more important factor.

Chapter 3 4.2: Managing the problems of the NHS

Factors: Managing government spending, increasing efficiency and providing quality service

MGS: Managing government spending is an important factor of managing the problems of the NHS. In the 1980s, the Thatcher government tried to manage the NHS by reducing government spending in an effort to curb abuse by doctors and patients alike. This caused massive disapproval among the British public as it implied a loss of quality. In 2000, the Blair administration decided to increase government spending and improve the quality of the NHS. For example, in 2000-2001 the budget for NHS was £55 billion while the budget in 2003-2004 was £69 billion. Thus managing government spending is an important factor of managing the problems of the NHS.

IE: Increasing efficiency is an important factor of managing the problems of the NHS. The NHS was a very resource-intensive service. There were insufficient doctors, nurses and facilities to cope with the overwhelming demand for the NHS. Therefore measures were set up to increase the efficiency of the NHS. For example, Margaret Thatcher introduced privatization which outsourced non-medical services to private contractors in order to allow hospitals to concentrate on providing quality service to its patients. Citizens were also encouraged to be more independent. Medicine, dental and optical treatments were no longer free except for a few groups of people. Thus increasing efficiency is an important factor of managing the problems of the NHS.

PQS: Providing quality service is an important factor of managing the problems of the NHS. The overwhelming demand for the NHS led to many people feeling that the NHS had poor standards. Thus measures were set up to improve the quality of the service provided by the NHS. For example, the NHS plan was introduced in 2000 which increased government spending and worked towards providing faster and more convenient services. One way was to let the NHS make use of the facilities in private hospitals without having the patient pay for it. The NHS Improvement Plan was also introduced in 2004 which gave patients the right to choose from four different healthcare providers, as well as access to their personal HealthSpace on the internet. Also, the NHS Direct service was introduced under this plan which allowed patients with minor illnesses to call for medical advice over the phone. This allowed them to save a trip to the doctor. Thus, providing quality service is an important factor of managing the problems of the NHS.


PQS>MGS: Providing quality service is a more important factor than managing government spending in terms of popularity. Managing government spending is incredibly unpopular with the British public. Leaders like Margaret Thatcher realized that reducing government spending meant losing their support; this meant that these leaders would likely be voted out in the next General Election. It is thus impossible to reduce government spending for long as the British public is so against it. Providing quality service is on the other hand is popular with the British public. Thus, providing quality service is a more important factor.

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PQS>IE: Providing quality service is a more important factor than increasing efficiency in terms of being able to cater to the public’s expectations. British public is more concerned about the quality of service they receive from NHS hospitals. Although increasing efficiency focuses on removing non-medical services from the burden of the NHS it does not actually ensure quality service. The Providing quality services focuses on the actual medical services provided, ensuring that they are up to the public’s expectations. Thus it is a more important factor as it caters more to the public’s needs than increasing efficiency.

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SS Notes 3:

Chapter 4 4.1: Causes of conflict in Sri Lanka

Factors: Citizenship rights, Sinhala Only policy, University Admission Criteria and Resettlement

CR: Citizenship rights are an important cause of conflict in Sri Lanka. The Ceylon Citizenship Act of 1948 granted citizenship only to those who were either born in Sri Lanka or those whose forefathers were born there. This displaced many Indian Tamils and left them without basic rights such as education and voting regardless of their contributions to the country’s economy. For example, over 1 million Tamils were made stateless in 1948. Thus citizenship rights are an important cause of conflict in Sri Lanka.

SOP: The Sinhala Only Policy is an important cause of conflict in Sri Lanka. Under the Official Language Act passed in 1956, Sinhala was declared the country’s official language. Tamils in government service were given three years to learn Sinhala or be dismissed. They were thus upset as they found it difficult to get jobs or be promoted. This led to heightened tensions between the Sinhalese and the Tamils. For example, rioting occurred and over a hundred deaths resulted in a demonstration against the Act. Thus the Sinhala Only policy is an important cause of conflict in Sri Lanka.

UAC: University admission criteria are an important cause of conflict in Sri Lanka. In 1970, the government introduced a new admission criterion which reserved a fixed number of places in the Universities. Also, Tamils had to score higher marks than Sinhalese in order to enter into more respectable courses such as Medicine and Engineering. For example, Tamils had to score 250 marks to get into Medicine or Engineering while Sinhalese only had to score 229 and 227 marks respectively. This discrepancy in required marks caused much anger among the Tamils which led to heightened tensions which eventually led to violence. Thus, university admission criteria are an important cause of conflict in Sri Lanka.

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Res: Resettlement is an important cause of conflict in Sri Lanka. In the 1950s, Sinhalese peasants and Buddhist monks were resettled into areas mainly populated by Tamils. Tamil lands were given to the Sinhalese which led to heightened tensions between the two races. For example, whole villages were emptied and driven out by the Sri Lankan Army. Many Tamils were unhappy that the government basically took their land to give to the Sinhalese. Also, the Tamils were upset that such large numbers of Sinhalese were relocated into traditionally Tamil areas. This led to heightened

tensions between the two races which eventually escalated to violence. Thus resettlement is an important cause of conflict in Sri Lanka

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Basis of Comparisons:

CR>SOP: Citizenship rights are a more important cause of conflict than the Sinhala Only policy in the number of people affected. Citizenship rights displaced all Indian Tamils while the Sinhala Only policy only applied to Tamils in the Civil Service. Thus Citizenship rights are a more important cause of conflict.

CR>UAC: Citizenship rights are a more important cause of conflict than University Admission criteria as citizenship rights are the root cause. Without basic rights such as voting, the Tamils were unable to vote against such racially discriminatory policies which allowed the mainly Sinhalese government free reign in discriminating against them. Thus, Citizenship rights are a more important cause of conflict. *(Can be used as one paragraph for all the factors)*

CR>Res: Citizenship rights are a more important cause of conflict than resettlement in the long-term impact. The lack of citizenship rights displaced over one million Tamils initially, this left them with nowhere to go and refugee camps had to be set up in order to accommodate all these people. These Tamils can never gain citizenship in Sri Lanka. In resettlement, only Tamil lands were occupied by the Sinhalese. Tamils were not forced to leave the country. Thus, Citizenship rights are a more important cause of conflict.

Chapter 4 5.1: Consequences of the Sri Lankan conflict

Factors: Political consequence, Economic consequence, and social consequence

PC: Political consequence is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan Conflict. Armed conflict arose out of the intense displeasure of the Tamils at their discrimination. An armed group, the Tamil Tigers, was formed which resorted to attacking Sinhalese as well as Tamil officials who supported the ruling party. Many incidences of violence ensued including the 1983 riots where 13 Sinhalese soldiers were killed by the Tamil Tigers. Foreign intervention is another example of such consequence. On 3 June 1987, the Indian government sent 20 ships to Jaffna to provide supplies to the Tamils living there. The Indian Air Force also dropped supplies into the Jaffna the following day. In doing so, it violated Sri Lankan Airspace. Thus, political consequence is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan Conflict.

EC: Economic consequence is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan Conflict. Unemployment arose due to all the disruptive riots that led to thousands of factory and plantation workers losing their jobs. Many of these jobless were Sinhalese who took part in looting and vandalism. The unstable situation also led to loss of investments from other countries. The amount of foreign investments fell from $70 million in 1982 to $20 million in 1986. Thus, Economic consequence is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan Conflict.

SC: Social consequence is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan Conflict. Sri Lankan Tamils were driven out of their homeland, many of them fled to Tamil Nadu in India. It is estimated that 65,000 Tamils still remain as refugees in India. High Security Zones were set up by the Sri Lankan army to combat the Tamil Tigers. Tamils living in these zones had to flee when the army came in to fight the Tamil Tigers. Thus, Social consequence is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan Conflict.


PC>EC: Political consequence is a more important consequence of the Sri Lankan conflict than Economic consequence based on the severity of the impact. Armed conflict resulted in many deaths and loss of property while Economic consequence only resulted in unemployment and overall loss of income. These economic problems would not matter if you were dead due to armed conflict. Thus, political consequence is a more important consequence of the Sri Lankan conflict.

PC>SC: Political consequence is a more important consequence of the Sri Lankan conflict than social consequence as it is the root cause. Tamils fled from Sri Lanka due to the armed conflict in Sri Lanka. They feared for their lives due to the extremist actions taken by both sides. Thus Political consequence is a more important consequence of the Sri Lankan conflict.

Chapter 4 8.1: Causes of conflict in Northern Ireland

Factors: Divided loyalties, Unequal allocation of housing, unequal employment opportunities, lack of voting rights and lack of opportunities for social interaction

DL: Divided loyalties are an important cause of conflict in Northern Ireland. Most Protestants view themselves as British and wish to remain part of the UK while Catholics wish to be reunited with the Republic of Ireland. This loyalty to different countries makes them intolerant of each other. For example, many Catholics resent the history of English conquest where Catholics were mistreated. Thus divided loyalties are an important cause of conflict in Northern Ireland.

UH: Unequal allocation of housing is an important cause of conflict in Northern Ireland. Catholics in Northern Ireland find the allocation of public housing by the government to be unfair. Large Catholic families have to often wait long periods of time in order to get a house; more houses were given instead to Protestants. For example, a house would be allocated to a single Protestant woman rather than a Catholic family with children. Thus unequal allocation of housing is an important cause of conflict in Northern Ireland.

UE: Unequal employment is an important cause of conflict in Northern Ireland. Equally qualified Catholics are refused jobs over Protestants and many Catholics do not have the same opportunities in getting the jobs that they want. For example, fewer Catholics were in senior positions in the public or private sectors and the number of Catholics engineers and civil servants were not proportionate to their numbers in the country. Thus unequal employment is an important cause of conflict in Northern Ireland.

VR: Lack of voting rights is an important cause of conflict in Northern Ireland. Before 1969, only those who owned houses and businesses were allowed to vote. Households were entitled to two votes while companies were entitled to more votes depending on their size. Since many companies

were owned by the richer Protestants, the voting system was unfair to the poor Catholic population. For example, voting districts were often drawn up to include a larger proportion of Protestants. Thus lack of voting rights is an important cause of conflict in Northern Ireland.

SI: Lack of social interaction is an important cause of conflict in Northern Ireland. Protestant children are taught in different schools from the Catholics. In addition, Catholics and Protestants lived in separate residential areas. For example, Protestants children are taught British history and play British sports while Catholic children learn Irish history and play Irish sports. Thus lack of social interaction is an important cause of conflict in Northern Ireland.


SI>DL: Lack of social interaction is a more important cause of conflict than divided loyalties as it is the root cause. The lack of understanding between the two parties stems from a lack of interaction and experience of each other. Many Protestants are taught nothing about the Catholic faith and vice versa. This has led to both parties mistrusting each other, leading to intolerance. Even though both parties have divided loyalties to different countries, it does not necessarily mean both sides have to act on their beliefs. With more social interaction both sides can simply agree to disagree. Thus lack of social interaction is a more important cause of conflict. *(Can be used as one paragraph for all the factors)*

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SI>UH: Lack of social interaction is a more important cause of conflict than unequal housing allocation as it is the root cause. Lack of understanding between the two sides is the underlying problem of the conflict, which left alone only becomes worse. Unequal housing allocation is a side effect of this misunderstanding which is not a permanent consequence. Catholic families do eventually get houses, albeit at a later time. Thus lack of social interaction is a more important cause of conflict.

SI>UE: Lack of social interaction is a more important cause of conflict than unequal employment based on root cause. Many Protestant employers are unwilling to hire Catholics due to the lack of knowledge they have about them. This ignorance has bred suspicion and stops Protestant employers from hiring them. Thus lack of social interaction is a more important cause of conflict.

SI>VR: Lack of social interaction is a more important cause of conflict than voting rights as it is the root cause. Due to the ignorance Protestants have of Catholics, they in turn become suspicious and intolerable of them; therefore they impose discriminatory policies on the poorer Catholics. If both sides understood each other better, then it would not matter that the majority that can vote are Protestants as the Protestants would have no reason to discriminate against them anyway. Thus lack of social interaction is a more important cause of conflict.

Chapter 4 10.1: Impact of Northern Ireland conflict

Factors: Social Segregation, declining economy and political reform

SS: Social segregation is an important impact of the Northern Ireland conflict. People in Northern Ireland grow up in an atmosphere of tension and violence and segregation between the Protestants and the Catholics is implemented. For example, it is possible for young people in Northern Ireland to

grow up not having met someone from the other community. Thus social segregation is an important impact of the Northern Ireland conflict.

DE: Declining economy is an important impact of the Northern Ireland conflict. The conflict in Northern Ireland has led to decreased domestic and foreign investments in the country. For example, the daily cost of maintaining the British Army and providing compensation for the victims of the conflict was £500,000. Thus, declining economy is an important impact of the Northern Ireland conflict.

PR: Political reform is an important impact of the Northern Ireland conflict. Civil rights protests put pressure on the Northern Ireland government to reform. For example, after two civil rights marches, the Northern Ireland government agreed to abolish the unfair voting system.


PR>SS: Political reform is more important than Social segregation based on the severity of the impact. The reforms to the government allowed for anti-discriminatory policies to be passed which put an end to some of the worse causes of the conflict. Social segregation is but a minor side effect of the lack of trust between the two sides, something which the government can work towards eradicating in time. Thus Political reform is more important than Social segregation.

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PR>DE: Political reform is more important than the declining economy based on long-term impact. Political reform will ensure that no further conflict will ensue and gives hope for a peaceful Northern Ireland. The declining economy will pick up again once the conflict is over, something which the political reforms are helping to achieve. Thus political reform is more important than the declining economy.

SS Notes 4:

Chapter 5 3.1: Challenges of a multi-ethnic society

Factors: Managing perception of different racial groups, managing perception of different religious groups and managing threats from external forces

Race: Managing perception of different racial groups is a key challenge of a multi-ethnic society. The lack of understanding among racial groups can create suspicion and unhappiness among the people. An example of this is the 1964 race riots. The PAP participated in the Federal Election in Malaysia, displeasing the UMNO party in the process. The PAP called for a non-communal approach to politics while the UMNO favored the Malays. An anti-PAP campaign was thus launched that claimed the PAP was anti-Malay and highlighted the poverty of Malays in Singapore. This caused race riots which resulted in 36 people dead and 560 others injured. This shows how easily the peace and harmony in Singapore can be broken. Thus, managing perception of different racial groups is a key challenge of a multi-ethnic society.

Religion: Managing perception of religious groups is a key challenge of a multi-ethnic society. Differences in religious beliefs and practices are issues that can be used to create tension in Singapore. An example of this is the 1950s Hertogh riots. A Dutch couple was imprisoned by the

Japanese in the 1940s and placed their daughter Maria in the care of a Malay lady, Aminah. Maria was consequently raised as a Muslim and married a Malay teacher at the age of 13. When her parents demanded that custody of Maria be returned to them, a court trial ensued. The court decided to award Maria to her birth parents. This caused unhappiness among the Malays as they felt the British legal system was biased against Muslims. Riots ensued as a result of escalated tensions which resulted in 5 dead and 100 others injured. The riots show how religious issues can cause hostility and distrust among the people. Thus managing perceptions of religious groups is a key challenge of a multi-ethnic society.

EF: Threats from external forces is a key challenge of a multi-ethnic society. In countries like Singapore, the threat of transnational terrorism is prevalent. Acts of terrorism can test the social bonds of the people in Singapore. An example of this is the JI activities in 2001. Thirty-four members were arrested for their involvement in terrorist-related activities from 2001-2002. These activities include fund-raising and the purchase of materials for making bombs. As a result of these arrests, Muslim organizations unanimously condemned the JI group and some Singaporeans harbored feelings of mutual suspicion and distrust. These mixed reactions showed an urgent need to ensure that social cohesion was not affected by the JI arrests. Thus threats from external forces are a key challenge of a multi-ethnic society.


Race>all others: Managing perceptions of different racial groups is the most important challenge of a multi-ethnic society as mixed perceptions of racial groups is the root problem. If all of Singapore practiced racial harmony, even if there were threats from external factors or mixed perceptions of religious groups, there would still be no problem as the whole of Singapore would remain one united people. Thus, managing perceptions of different racial groups is the most important challenge of a multi-ethnic society.

Chapter 5 4.1: Managing ethnic diversity

Factors: Building a national identity, protecting minority groups and developing a common space.

NI: Building a national identity is an important way of managing ethnic diversity. It is important that each individual does not see himself as exclusively part of any racial or religious group, but rather as one united people. This is achieved through a number of ways. For example, the policy of multi-racialism ensures that no race is disadvantaged or favored over the others, no special rights are given to any particular racial or religious group and everyone has equal opportunities to succeed. Since everyone is considered a valued member of Singaporean society, a sense of national identity is fostered. Common practices also help build a national identity; loyalty and national pride are inculcated in all Singaporeans through practices like reciting the pledge and singing the national anthem. This helps Singaporeans see themselves as one people. Thus building a national identity is an important way of managing ethnic diversity.

MG: Safeguarding the interests of minority groups is an important way of managing ethnic diversity. It is important to ensure that no minority group is discriminated against and that everyone has a say in governance. This is achieved through a number of ways. For example, minority representation ensures equal representation in two ways. The PCMR consisting of members from minority racial

and religious groups ensures no discriminatory law is passed in Parliament. GRCs require at least one of the candidates in a contesting team to be from a minority racial community. With these two methods, equal representation is ensured as no minority group is excluded from governance. Self-help groups also play an important role in helping less fortunate members of their community get aid for their studies and training for their jobs. This helps Singaporeans to cope and compete with each other on an equal footing. People from the minority groups will also be able to improve their social and economic positions in society. Thus safeguarding the interests of minority groups is an important way of managing ethnic diversity.

CS: Developing a common space is an important way of managing ethnic diversity. This common space provides opportunities for Singaporeans to interact. As a result, understanding among Singaporeans from the different races can be deepened. This is achieved through a number of ways. Common living space provided by public housing is a way to promote ethnic integration. By ensuring that there is an even distribution of the different races in housing estates, chances for social interaction is increased leading to better ethnic cohesion. Opportunities offered by educational institutions also help develop a common space. Students from different races and religions study together. The daily interaction provides an opportunity for friendships to be cultivated and strengthened. The implementation of CCAs also helps promote closer bonds among youths of all races. Students from different races come together to play games and work on a task. This helps build teamwork among them. Thus developing a common space is an important way of managing ethnic diversity.


NI>All others: Building a national identity is the most important factor over all the other factors in managing ethnic diversity as it targets the root cause of the problem. If the entire country views itself as one united Singapore, then there is no need for the other factors to intervene as there would be no minority races or need for integration but rather a single race; Singaporeans. Thus building a national identity is the most important factor in managing ethnic diversity.

SS Notes 5:

Chapter 3 3.2: Managing healthcare in Singapore (sub-points)

Factors: Medisave, Medishield, government subsidies, Medifund, restructuring of hospitals and means-testing

Medisave: Medisave is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore. A certain amount of money is channeled into the individual’s Medisave account from his monthly CPF contributions. This can be used to pay hospital bills and other medical treatment. For example, 33% of the individual’s salary goes into his CPF contribution, of which 6.5% of it is stored in his Medisave account. This encourages Singaporeans to be responsible for their own health and lightens the government’s load, which means the government does not need to raise taxes to meet rising healthcare costs. Thus Medisave is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore.

Medishield: Medishield is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore. Medishield is the national health insurance scheme. Singaporeans can pay for this scheme using their Medisave. This is used to pay for large hospital bills not covered under Medisave. For example, Medishield pays 80%

of the amount left after the payment of the deductible. This helps people who require long-term treatment of more serious illnesses to pay for their hospitalization. Thus Medishield is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore.

GS: Government subsidies are an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore. Direct subsidies are given to government hospitals, polyclinics and some nursing homes. This helps these hospitals to keep their costs affordable for the public and helps offset the rising costs of providing healthcare. For example in 2000, subsidies made up one quarter of government spending on healthcare. The government also gives different rates of subsidies to different classes of wards in government hospitals. For example, the patients in C class wards receive 80% subsidy. This helps lower income Singaporeans to continue to be self-reliant by providing a safety net. Thus government subsidies are an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore.

Medifund: Medifund is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore. Medifund was set up in 1993 as a way of helping lower income Singaporeans who earn less than $50 a month and thus do not contribute to CPF, with their healthcare bills. Patients who need help can apply for the fund at the hospital where they are being treated. Medifund started with a fund of $200 million and the interest earned from this fund is given to public hospitals. For example, 58% of the fund goes to inpatients in Class B2/C wards. This ensures that no person is in a situation where medical services are not given to him because he cannot afford it. Thus Medifund is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore.

Restructuring: Restructuring of hospitals is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore. One of the ways the government managed rising healthcare costs was through the restructuring of hospitals in the 1990s. This gave hospitals more freedom to reorganize to meet the needs of Singaporeans. For example, general hospitals such as Alexandra Hospital and Changi General Hospital were restructured. This allowed the government to reduce the amount of subsidies to these hospitals, lightening the government’s load. Thus restricting of hospitals is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore.

MT: Means-testing is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore. It was implemented in 2009 as a way of checking whether patients are able to pay for healthcare and awarding different amounts of subsidy accordingly. For example, those who earn $3,200 and below will receive 65% subsidy if they stay in a B2 class ward. This ensures that subsidies provided by the government benefits patients who need them most. This also ensures a fairer distribution of resources by giving those who cannot afford to pay for healthcare the most subsidies. Thus means-testing is an important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore.


Medisave>all others: Medisave is the most important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore as it targets the root cause. If the individual has sufficient funds in his Medisave and is able to afford Medishield as a result, then there is no need for the other factors to intervene as the costs of healthcare will be easily affordable and the individual will not need subsidies or government help. Thus, Medisave is the most important factor in managing healthcare in Singapore.

Chapter 4 5.1: Consequence of conflict in Sri Lanka (sub-points)

Factors: Armed conflict, foreign intervention, unemployment, loss of investments from other countries, fall in the number of tourists and Sri Lankans driven out of their homeland

AC: Armed conflict is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan conflict. In 1976, a new political party, the Tamil United Liberation Front was formed which rallied for a separate independent state in Sri Lanka known as Tamil Eelam. As their demands were not met, a militant group, the LTTE or Tamil Tigers was formed. The Tamil Tigers attack the Sinhalese, as well as Tamils in the police force and Tamil members and supporters of the ruling party. They attack anyone that does not support the proposed separate state. This has led to a long war with the Sri Lankan government, lasting for 20 years and has cost more than 60,000 lives. This shows how a militant group like the Tamil Tigers has caused violent clashes with the Sri Lankan government as a result of the Sri Lankan conflict. Thus armed conflict is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan conflict.

FI: Foreign intervention is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan conflict. The Sinhalese-Tamil conflict attracted the attention of India who initially, tried to mediate the conflict between the two sides. However, on 3 June 1987, the Indian government sent 20 Indian ships to Jaffna to provide food and petroleum products to the Sri Lankan Tamils. When the ships were turned back, the Indian Air Force dropped food and medical supplies in Jaffna the following day. In doing so, it violated Sri Lankan airspace. India then sent a peacekeeping force to Sri Lanka in order to seize weapons from the uncooperative Tamil Tigers. This resulted in many clashes between the peacekeeping force and the Tamil Tigers. The peacekeeping force was later withdrawn in 1990. This shows how India, as a foreign power intervened on behalf of the Tamils in Sri Lanka as a result of the conflict. Thus foreign intervention is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan conflict.

Unemployment: Unemployment is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan conflict. The Sri Lankan riots in July 1983 led to massive unemployment as thousands of factory workers, the self-employed and plantation workers lost their jobs. For example, many Tamil owned businesses and factories were destroyed with the loss of 25,000 jobs. It was also reported that 150,000 jobs had been lost and that 90% of these jobs belonged to the Sinhalese. This shows that both sides suffered losses in the Sri Lankan conflict. Thus, unemployment is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan conflict.

Loss of investments: Loss of investments from other countries is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan conflict. Due to the instability of the Sri Lankan economy caused by the ongoing conflict deterred investors from other countries from investing in Sri Lanka. This caused the economy to become stagnant. For example, foreign investments fell from $70 million in 1982 to $20 million in 1986. Thus loss of investments from other countries is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan conflict.

Tourists: Fall in the number of tourists is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan conflict. Tourism contributes significantly to Sri Lanka’s economy. However this was adversely affected by the violence and internal conflict. After the 1983 riots, tourist arrivals steadily decreased resulting in a loss of jobs. For example the number of tourist arrivals fell from 400,000 in 1982 to 200,000 in 1986. This has had an adverse impact on the economy. Thus fall in the number of tourists is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan conflict.

Displacement: Sri Lankan Tamils driven out of their homeland is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan conflict. The conflict has caused large-scale displacement beyond its borders. For example, thousands of Tamils fled to Tamil Nadu in South India in the 1983 riots. High security zones also caused large-scale displacement as Tamils had to flee when the Sri Lankan army entered these zones to take on the Tamil Tigers. This has caused many Tamils to live in overcrowded refugee camps as a result of the conflict between the Sri Lankan government and the Tamil Tigers. Thus Sri Lankan Tamils driven out of their homeland is an important consequence of the Sri Lankan conflict.


Armed Conflict > all others: Armed conflict is the most important consequence as it is the root cause of all the other consequences. If not for the violent acts carried out by the Tamil Tigers, India would never have intervened and all the economic problems that arose due to the violent upheaval would never have occurred. Sri Lankan Tamils would also not have been driven out of the homeland as the Sri Lankan government would not have set up HSZs to combat the Tamil Tigers. Thus, armed conflict is the most important consequence.

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SS Notes (Sec 3 Full Notes)