Of course, the Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (ACRES) is not dedicated to the welfare of canines only, it did contribute to feline proliferation in Chong Pang by ending the culling of cats in that estate. ACRES is now setting its sights on promoting "a better bridge between the Government and civil society". Whether that means the founder is treating its new subjects of interest as dumb sheep or cattle is highly conjectural.
Institute of Policy Studies senior research fellow Gillian Koh was first to point out that "we sit up when a civic activist crosses over to the PAP." What made the talking heads really stand up was that Louis Ng broke protocol by making his own announcement about joining the People's Action Party as a bona fide card carrying member. And that he publicly fingered Tan Chuan-Jin as the recruiter. Tan was last seen at a television programme ("A Minute To Win It") with Gurmit Singh. Will the yellow booted contractor also turn to the dark side?
Ng supposedly founded ACRES with an $8,000 donation about a decade ago. That paltry sum could easily transform into a $16,000 a month windfall, what with the help of the GRC gravy train and all. And the heady ride could also end up with a million smackeroos per annum. It's not as far fetched as it may seem, Tan as good as confirmed the scripted move by saying, "We have many members and volunteers who come from different backgrounds, and that diversity is valuable as we see how best to help our community". Reptiles are probably also welcomed to join, since the ability to shed crocodile tears on call is highly valued by the political animals in charge.
To put to rest the doubting Thomases among us, veteran journalist PN Balji spelt it out in no uncertain terms: "I think for the next election, PAP will try to bring in people who have an affinity with the general public... The choice of Louis Ng may be a sign of that." Please don't take it out on your dog by kicking the poor mutt.