(Translation)
Minutes of the 97th Meeting of the Kwai Tsing District Council
Date ：10 September 2015 Time ：2:35pm - 6:45pm Venue ：K&TDO Conference Room
Attendee Time of Arrival Time of Departure Mr FONG Ping, BBS, JP (Chairman) Start of meeting End of meeting Mr LAW King-shing, MH (Vice-chairman) 2:38pm End of meeting Mr CHAN Siu-man, Simon Start of meeting End of meeting Ms CHEUNG Wai-ching, Clarice Start of meeting End of meeting Mr CHOW Wai-hung, Rayman Start of meeting End of meeting Mr CHOW Yick-hay, BBS, JP Start of meeting 4:14pm Miss CHU Lai-ling Start of meeting End of meeting Mr HO Siu-ping Start of meeting End of meeting Mr HUI Kei-cheung Start of meeting 4:04pm Ms LAM Chui-ling, Nancy, MH Start of meeting End of meeting Mr LAM Lap-chi Start of meeting End of meeting Mr LAM Siu-fai Start of meeting End of meeting Mr LEE Chi-keung, Alan, MH Start of meeting End of meeting Mr LEUNG Chi-shing Start of meeting 6:04pm Mr LEUNG Kam-wai Start of meeting 5:53pm Mr LEUNG Kwok-wah Start of meeting End of meeting Mr LEUNG Tsz-wing, Dennis Start of meeting 5:25pm Mr LEUNG Wai-man, MH 4:28pm End of meeting The Hon. LEUNG Yiu-chung 3:25pm 6:04pm Ms LO Wai-lan 2:58pm End of meeting The Hon. MAK Mei-kuen, BBS, JP 3:56pm 5:54pm Mr NG Kim-sing Start of meeting End of meeting Mr POON Chi-shing, MH Start of meeting 3:19pm Ms POON Siu-ping, Nancy, MH 4:56pm End of meeting Ms TAM Wai-chun, MH Start of meeting End of meeting Mr TANG Shui-wah Start of meeting 4:51pm Dr TANG Shuk-ming, Winnie, JP 3:35pm 5:09pm Miss TSANG Tze-kwan, Marina Start of meeting End of meeting Mr TSUI Hiu-kit Start of meeting 6:29pm Mr TSUI Sang-hung, Sammy 3:13pm 5:53pm Mr WONG Bing-kuen Start of meeting 4:35pm Mr WONG Yiu-chung, MH Start of meeting End of meeting Mr WONG Yun-tat Start of meeting 5:53pm
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In Attendance Mr YUEN Hong-shing, Honson Chief Transport Officer/NT South West, Transport Department Mr Frankie WONG Manager, Community Affairs, The Kowloon Motor Bus Co. (1933) Ltd Mr LAM Lap-tak, Daniel Chief Engineer/NTW 2 (NTW), Civil Engineering and Development Department Mr CHENG Wai-kit District Environmental Hygiene Superintendent (Kwai Tsing), Food and Environmental Hygiene Department Mr WONG Kin Wah, Terry District Commander (Kwai Tsing), Hong Kong Police Force Ms CHUNG Lie-moy, Joany Police Community Relations Officer (Kwai Tsing), Hong Kong Police Force Mrs CHEUNG LO Pik-yuk, Helen Senior Housing Manager (KC), Housing Department Mr MAK Yook-ming, Stephen Senior Property Service Manager/KC, Housing Department Ms LEE Lee Property Service Manager/S (KC) 2, Housing Department Mrs TSANG CHAN Mi-fong Chief School Development Officer (TW & KwT), Education Bureau Mr CHENG Hon-fai Senior School Development Officer (KwT), Education Bureau Mr LAM Chi Fai Administrative Assistant/Lands (District Lands Office, Tsuen Wan and Kwai Tsing), Lands Department Ms LIU Pui Wah, Stella District Leisure Manger (Kwai Tsing), Leisure and Cultural Services Department Mr WONG Kwok-chun, Alex District Social Welfare Officer (Tsuen Wan/Kwai Tsing), Social Welfare Department Mr LO Ying-ki, Alan, JP District Officer (Kwai Tsing), Kwai Tsing District Office, Home Affairs Department Mr WU Tin-yau, Gordon Assistant District Officer (Kwai Tsing), Kwai Tsing District Office, Home Affairs Department Mr LEUNG Kai-sun, Sunny Senior Executive Officer (District Council), Kwai (Secretary) Tsing District Office Miss NG Kai-yue, Eliza Executive Officer I (District Council), (Assistant Secretary) Kwai Tsing District Office
Absent with Apologies Ms LAU Mei-lo1 Mr WAN Siu-kin, Andrew
1 Ms LAU Mei-lo submitted leave application before the meeting. 2
Opening Remarks
The Chairman welcomed everybody to the 97th meeting of the Kwai Tsing District Council (K&T DC).
Confirmation of Minutes of the 96th Meeting of the Kwai Tsing District Council held on 9 July 2015 and the 17th Special Meeting of the Kwai Tsing District Council held on 20 July 2015
2. Mr LEE Chi-keung, Alan moved the confirmation of the above minutes of meetings which was seconded Mr CHOW Yick-hay and Mr TANG Shui-wah. The minutes of meeting were confirmed unanimously by the DC.
Discussion Items
Discussion on Criminal Damage of Banners in the District (Proposed by Mr NG Kim-sing) (K&T DC Paper No. 46/2015 and 46a/2015)
3. Mr NG Kim-sing introduced paper no. 46.
4. Mr LAM Siu-fai worried that people who damaged banners would use the offensive weapons to commit other offence, and he urged the Police to step up enforcement action.
5. Mr LAM Lap-chi said that the number of such cases was in fact far more than police records and the detection rate was rather low. At present, the Police was too passive in taking enforcement actions and should step up patrols to combat vandalism proactively.
6. Mr POON Chi-shing said that people who damaged banners were in possession of offensive weapons and might affect the safety of residents. He urged the Police to step up patrols as long as manpower could be arranged.
7. Mr WONG Kin Wah, Terry gave a consolidated response as follows:
(i) The Police attached great importance to these cases, and would refer the cases to District Investigation Team (DIT) or District Crime Squad (DCS) for investigation based on its severity.
(ii) Normally the Police would review nearby CCTV recordings and leave no stone unturned.
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(iii) The Police would not rule out any motive. According to past statements of suspects, the motives were claimed to be acting on impulse, in a bad mood and dissatisfied with the performance of individual Members. However, there had not been evidence to prove that the damage of banners was organised or involved politics. As suspects were mostly acting on impulse and the crimes were not organised, it was, to some extent, difficult to collect intelligence.
(iv) This year was an election year. The police would step up patrols in high-risk areas and enhance notification mechanism for the public to report crime. The Police would also enhance publicity and education, and Police Clinic would be set up to educate the public.
8. Mr NG Kim-sing said that he would not speculate on the motives for these cases, but it was obvious that the recent incidents of having excessive lead in drinking water had driven a rise of such cases. He urged the Police to take it seriously.
9. Mr LAM Lap-chi said that the detection rate was lower than ordinary crimes, and he urged the Police to step up patrols and conduct ambush operations. The damage of banners not only affected the use of public funds, it also seriously affected Members’ community work and public order of the community.
10. Mr CHOW Wai-hung, Rayman said that damage of banners was resulted from polarisation in the community, and the Police should not be held fully accountable for it.
11. Mr WONG Kin Wah, Terry said that from August 2011 to August 2015, the Police detected 24 cases of damage of banners, and the detection rate (30%) was higher than the detection rate (28%) of ordinary criminal damage cases. Of the 24 cases, 23 persons were arrested. Of the 15 persons prosecuted, 14 were convicted. He urged Members to take the initiative to report the case to the Police, so that the Police could better grasp of the situation.
12. The Chairman said that banners of any Member might be damaged regardless the party one affiliated with. The Hong Kong society practiced rule of law, and the Police should step up efforts in combatting damage of banners.
Proposal on and Implementation of Adding Shelters at Bus Stops in the District (Proposed by Mr NG Kim-sing) (K&T DC Paper No. 47/2015 and 47a/2015)
13. Mr NG Kim-sing introduced paper no. 47.
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14. Mr YUEN Hong-shing, Honson responded as follows:
(i) The shelter would be erected by a constructor arranged by KMB. The Department expected that KMB would commence the works soon.
(ii) The shelter installation works was delayed as the original installation site was at a temporary bus stop. After confirmation of the location of the bus stop, the installation site moved forward by dozens of meters, thus resulting in the delay.
15. Mr Frankie WONG added that according to the installation plan, the works would be completed in the 4th quarter of 2015. KMB had carried out immediate follow-up as soon as the location was found to be changed.
16. Mr HUI Kei-cheung said that the installation of shelters at bus stops was in slow. The Transport Department (TD) should urge KMB to expedite the works. KMB should also enhance maintenance and management of shelters and provide priority seats at the bus stops as well.
17. Mr LAM Lap-chi opined that KMB should install shelters and provide display panels of the Estimated Bus Arrival Time System at all bus stops. Relevant departments should enhance cooperation with KMB and expedite the installation and enhancement works.
18. Mr NG Kim-sing asked how TD supervised the progress and quality of KMB’s works, and he suggested KMB providing priority seats at major bus stops.
19. Mr LEE Chi-keung, Alan supported the provision of priority seats at suitable bus stops by KMB, thus building an elderly-friendly community.
20. Mr YUEN Hong-shing, Honson gave a consolidated response as follows:
(i) TD supported the installation of shelters at bus stops by the bus companies and would process the applications as soon as possible (asap). TD encouraged the bus companies to complete the works asap and as far as reasonable and practicable.
(ii) KMB had to call for tender before works could be commenced and the implementation of works would depend on internal resources. These might result in a longer lead time. However, TD urged KMB to review the lead time for installation of shelters at bus stops.
21. Mr Frankie WONG added that currently, 77% bus stops in Kwai Tsing had shelters erected or were located at places with cover. The bus company would consider implementing works step by step with reference to opinions received. At present, KMB was
5 also responsible for maintenance of the shelters. Members were welcomed to put forth opinions with regard to bus stops that required installation and maintenance of shelters.
22. Mr HUI Kei-cheung suggested installation of shelter at the bus stop at the Crown of Thorns Church, lengthening the shelter at Tai Wo Hau MTR station bus stop, and maintaining the shelters of bus stops at Fu On House and Fu Kwai House.
23. Mr LEUNG Kwok-wah suggested that the shelter at Greenknoll Court and Shek Chun House bus stop should be enhanced, and reference could be made to designs of foreign bus stop shelters.
24. Mr LAM Lap-chi further enquired whether KMB would consider installing large display panels of the Estimated Bus Arrival Time System and improving the designs of the advertisement panels.
25. Mr Frankie WONG responded as follows:
(i) Currently, KMB had stopped installing large display panels of the Estimated Bus Arrival Time System. He encouraged passengers to use online or smartphone to gain access to the Estimated Bus Arrival Time System. Passengers who did not use smartphones might enquire about the bus arrivals and departures by calling KMB customer service hotline. The existing installation of small display panels of the Estimated Bus Arrival Time System was a pilot scheme, which would be reviewed to consider its extension with regard to internal resources available and effectiveness of the scheme.
(ii) KMB noted Members’ suggestion on installation of bus stop shelters. The design of bus stop shelters was subject to the constraints of the nearby environment and large shelters could not be installed at all bus stops.
(iii) The size and location of advertisement panels at bus stops were under the regulation of Hong Kong Laws, and the revenue generated would be used for subsidising bus fares.
26. The Hon. LEUNG Yiu-chung suggested KMB adding facilities for assisting visually impaired persons in taking buses.
27. Mr Frankie WONG noted the suggestion.
Environmental hygiene in the district and legislation on shop front extensions (Proposed by Mr NG Kim-sing) (K&T DC Paper No. 48/2015, 48a/2015, 48b/2015, 48c/2015 and 48d/2015)
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28. The Chairman welcomed Mr CHENG Wai-kit, District Environmental Hygiene Superintendent (Kwai Tsing) to the meeting.
29. Mr NG Kim-sing introduced the above paper and added as follows:
(i) Relevant departments had conducted joint operation on the day of the meeting; however, hygiene condition of Kwai Fong Circuit was not improved up to the moment before the meeting.
(ii) The valid “Notice to Remove Obstruction” issued would not become invalid even if the article or thing concerned was moved slightly away from their original location.
(iii) There was no concrete progress and implementation timetable on the Bill on the “Fixed Penalty System”.
30. Mr CHENG Wai-kit gave a consolidated response as follows:
(i) The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) had always been concerned about the hygiene problem at Kwai Fong Circuit. FEHD conducted site inspection from time to time. Observation revealed that the miscellaneous articles were left-overs of loading and unloading goods or articles placed there by scavengers, and FEHD would follow up correspondingly.
(ii) FEHD would conduct joint action with the Police in the area every week to prosecute offenders, so as to achieve deterrent effect.
(iii) It was stipulated that 4 hours after the issuance of “Notice to Remove Obstruction” (the Notice). FEHD could seize and detain articles not removed. The Notice would not become invalid even if the article or thing was moved slightly away from its original location.
(iv) To tie in with the “Keep Clean 2015 @ Hong Kong: Our Home” campaign, FEHD had enhanced cleaning efforts at Kwai Fong Circuit area, such as street cleaning, pest control and enforcement action. He said that the complaint figures regarding shop front extensions (SFEs) and rubbish accumulation showed a slight decreasing trend this year, and he believed that the efforts were effective.
31. Mr WONG Kin Wah, Terry said that the Police joined hands with FEHD and conducted 88 inter-departmental joint operations in 2014, with 76 persons arrested by FEHD officers; 60 joint operations were carried out in the first 7 months of 2015 with arrest of 29 persons. The Police mainly played an assistive role in the joint operations. If FEHD officers encountered behaviours such as uncooperative acts, criminal damage, or breach of the peace and so on, the Police would intervene immediately and take resolute enforcement action to ensure that FEHD could carry out their duties smoothly. With regard to SFEs, if the 7 articles would constitute immediate dangers to road users, passers-by or the traffic, the Police would intervene immediately and take resolute enforcement action upon receipt of report. The Police would maintain close cooperation with FEHD.
32. Mr LO Ying-ki, Alan added that with regard to the legislative progress of the “Fixed Penalty System”, the Home Affairs Department (HAD) would submit the legislative proposal to the Legislative Council (LegCo) Panel on Home Affairs within this year. If support from the Panel was secured, the Bill would be submitted to the LegCo for scrutiny in the first quarter of next year.
33. Mr LEE Chi-keung, Alan said that hygiene problem of Kwai Fong Circuit existed for more than 10 years. He urged relevant departments to address the problem seriously and enhance enforcement. On the other hand, he pointed out that illegal parking problem was serious on Hing Fong Road, where miscellaneous articles occupied pedestrian walkway and the public had to walk on the carriage way, which was also occupied by the illegally parked vehicles, resulting in people and vehicle competing for the way.
34. Mr WONG Yiu-chung said that there was a complaint about a shop putting miscellaneous articles on the two kerb side lanes of Kwai Tak Street and the entrance/exit of building, such that vehicles could only drive on the central lane, i.e. blocking the in and out of vehicles. He hoped that relevant departments could address the problem seriously.
35. The Hon. LEUNG Yiu-chung pointed out that the existing actions could not tackle the root of the problem. He hoped that relevant departments could put forth proposals with greater deterrent effect and to the root of the problem.
36. Mr HUI Kei-cheung opined as follows:
(i) Apart from fixed penalty, the Government was carrying out “Keep Clean 2015 @ Hong Kong: Our Home” campaign, and participating departments should give an account on the content and effectiveness of the campaign.
(ii) Mr WONG Bing-kuen and he had sent a letter to the Chief Secretary for Administration (CS) with regard to the hygiene problem on Tai Ha Street. Subsequently, they had joined FEHD and the Police in cleaning and enforcement actions in Tai Ha Street area. However, the problem carried on the next day. He said that joint enforcement action had deterrent effect that it was important to conduct joint operations.
37. Mr LAM Lap-chi opined as follows:
(i) Relevant departments should enhance frequency and unify coordination of joint
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actions, so as to solve the problem of failing to ascertain responsibilities between departments.
(ii) As for SFEs, an increase in penalty might not be able to achieve a certain level of deterrence to shops with persistent SFEs, and the Government might consider enhancing punishment, e.g. confiscation of goods or even closure of the shops.
38. Mr LAM Siu-fai opined as follows:
(i) He praised FEHD for its efficiency in handling rubbish problem.
(ii) In North-east Kwai Chung, black spots of illegal dumping of construction waste included the car park on Shek Man Path, outside Shui King Building, Wo Yi Hop Road and beside On Shing Building, Tai Pak Tin Street. In dealing with construction waste, the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) would conduct inspection and then passed the case to the Highways Department (HyD) for handling the construction waste. EPD and HyD should increase the frequency of patrols.
(iii) With regard to SFEs at North Kwai Chung Market, he suggested that FEHD should request shops to clean up miscellaneous articles themselves instead of by FEHD Officers, so as to avoid using public funds for cleaning up miscellaneous articles for shops.
(iv) Someone kept illegally occupying two parking spaces on Tai Loong Street for recycling activities, which seriously affected hygiene condition in the area. He hoped that various departments could join hands to drive the person away.
39. Mr LEUNG Chi-shing doubted the effectiveness of increasing the fixed penalty. He pointed out that the sustainability of joint enforcement actions were most important. The Government should conduct joint operations to issue fixed penalty tickets persistently for 1 to 2 weeks to show the shops the determination of the Government.
40. Mr TSUI Sang-hung, Sammy pointed out that during the “Keep Clean 2015 @ Hong Kong: Our Home” campaign, hygiene problems in the district, e.g. illegal dumping of construction waste and illegal hawking on Shek Yam Road, were not eased. He said that the intensity in tackling hygiene problems in the district by the Government was inadequate.
41. Ms CHEUNG Wai-ching, Clarice opined as follows:
(i) Distribution of cleaning kit had little effect in the improvement of environmental hygiene condition in the district.
(ii) Enforcement departments might consider conducting “decoy operations” to tie in with prosecution actions to achieve deterrent effect. 9
(iii) Regarding illegal dumping of construction waste, she suggested that the department could enhance publicity on the punishment of offenders, such as posting posters at black spots.
42. Mr CHOW Yick-hay suggested that review should be conducted with regard to the authorities of the District Office (DO) and the District Council (DC) with a view to enhancing their capability in district administration.
43. Mr NG Kim-sing opined as follows:
(i) He agreed to Mr CHOW Yick-hay’s suggestion. He pointed out that some front line staff would avoid being obstructed and failed to cleaning up rubbish at some places, and he hoped that the Police could follow up the matter.
(ii) He hoped that CS could visit the district to observe the hygiene condition and review the effectiveness of the cleaning campaign.
(iii) He asked the District Officer to clarify whether the “Fixed Penalty System” would commence legislative process in next year or would complete legislative process and commence enactment in next year.
44. Mr LO Ying-ki, Alan gave a consolidated response as follows:
(i) The legislative proposal would be submitted to the LegCo for scrutiny in the first quarter of next year, but the time required for scrutiny was hard to predict.
(ii) If Members encountered problems in the coordination with departments, they were welcomed to inform DO and DO would provide corresponding coordination.
45. Mr CHENG Wai-kit gave a consolidated response as follows:
(i) FEHD mainly responsible for handling rubbish and cleaning street and so on, while illegal dumping of construction waste would be followed up by EPD and cleaned up by HyD. In view that illegal dumping of construction waste in the district became more serious recently, FEHD would held a meeting with EPD for discussion on the solution to illegal dumping of construction waste.
(ii) All restaurants operating in Hong Kong had to apply to the FEHD for licences and were subject to regulation of the FEHD under the law. This enabled the department to control the mode of operation of licensed restaurants and was favourable to and effective in the fight against illegal extension of business area by restaurants. As vegetable stalls, grocery stores and pharmacies and the like were not required to apply for licences from FEHD, they were not regulated directly by FEHD. FEHD would take into account the cleanliness of walkways and follow up on SFEs and behaviours 10
that obstructed the cleaning of streets.
(iii) He agreed that there were a number of hygiene black spots in the district and FEHD had invested a great deal of resources for solving the problems.
46. Mr WONG Kin Wah, Terry said that Kwai Fong Circuit, Tai Ha Street, Shek Lei and Tai Loong Street and so on were responsible by police inspector of the street management team. Apart from re-checking, the inspector would maintain close communication with DC Member of the area and observe if the situation became worse. He added that the Police’s major duty was to ensure that main roads in Kwai Tsing were unobstructed, while the importance of secondary roads would not be overlooked. To this end, the Police would enhance enforcement.
47. Mr LEE Chi-keung, Alan said that it was a waste of time that the department had to define the categories of rubbish before enforcement and confirmation of the responsible department. He suggested that the Government should deploy one department to be responsible for addressing the problem of cleaning up rubbish.
48. The Chairman said that the Government should take rigorous enforcement action in handling SFE problem.
49. Mr WONG Bing-kuen said that HyD was responsible for cleaning up construction waste, while the power of enforcement was vested in EPD. He doubted the actual prosecution figures of EPD.
Motion: “The Chief Secretary for Administration is requested to visit the Kwai Tsing District, and various departments are requested to deal with environmental hygiene black spots seriously, and the feasibility of setting up Fixed Penalty System with regard to shop front extensions should be announced as soon as possible.” (Proposed by Mr NG Kim-sing; seconded by Mr LAM Siu-fai, Mr TSUI Sang-hung, Sammy and Mr WONG Bing-kuen)
50. The Chairman put the motion to vote. There were no vote against and 7 abstentions. The motion was endorsed.
Update and follow-up on lead in drinking water incident in Kwai Luen Estate Phase II (Proposed by Mr NG Kim-sing) (K&T DC Paper No. 49/2015, 49a/2015, 49b/2015 and 49c/2015)
51. Mr NG Kim-sing introduced paper no. 49/2015 and reiterated the three demands from residents of Kwai Luen Estate Phase II:
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(i) Conduct blood tests for residents of Kwai Luen Estate Phase II.
(ii) Replace water supply system of Kwai Luen Estate Phase II. Although residents could get water from temporary water supply systems on respective floors, water from these temporary water points contained more impurities and was milky in colour at the beginning, thus residents could not use the water with peace of mind.
(iii) Ascertain the responsibility with regard to excessive lead content in drinking water.
52. The Chairman welcomed Mr MAK Yook-ming, Stephen, Senior Property Service Manager/KC, Housing Department, Mrs CHEUNG LO Pik-yuk, Helen, Senior Housing Manager (KC), Ms LEE Lee, Property Service Manager/S (KC) 2, Mrs TSANG CHAN Mi-fong, Chief School Development Officer (TW & KwT), Education Bureau and Mr CHENG Hon-fai, Senior School Development Officer (KwT) to the meeting.
53. Mr MAK Yook-ming, Stephen gave a consolidated response as follows:
(i) After the incidents had occurred, the Housing Department (HD) had arranged blood tests for the three more easily affected groups living in Kwai Luen Estate Phase II, which included children below six, and the blood tests were almost completed. Subsequently, HD had extended the coverage of blood test targets to children below eight in response to demand from residents.
(ii) After the incidents had occurred, HD provided drinking water to residents in common area of Kwai Luen Estate Phase II immediately. In mid-August, the contractors extended connection pipes from the roof-top water tanks to each floor of the two buildings of Kwai Luen Estate Phase II, providing three temporary water points on each floor, which were put into use at the end of August.
(iii) The contractors had promised to provide filters good for lead reduction to residents of Kwai Luen Estate Phase II, and as at the date of the meeting, the contractors had contact 95% of the tenants for installation of such filters.
(iv) Regarding responsibility and compensation, some people might put forth claims. If it was against the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA), HA would consult legal advice for handling the matter specifically and therefore it would be inappropriate to comment. In addition, there were contracts between HA and the main contractors, and HA would follow up the incidents in accordance with the contracts and the question of responsibilities under and in relation to the contracts. With regard to responsibility, HD was the executive agency of HA and had no power in the enforcement of water supplies legislations, and it could only investigate and find out contractual responsibilities in accordance with the contracts between HA and the main contractors. According to the contracts, if the main contractors breached any
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requirements in the contract, they must provide remedies, and main contractors should be held responsible was without doubt. HA had issued letters to relevant contractors to request for investigation and follow-up.
(Chairman left the meeting temporarily and the Vice-chairman took the chair.)
54. Mrs TSANG CHAN Mi-fong said that the Education Bureau (EDB) was very concerned about the quality of drinking water in schools and the health of students, and had adopt a series of measures in response to the lead in drinking water incidents. The Task Force on Investigation of Excessive Lead Content in Drinking Water (Task Force) set up by the Government was investigating the causes of excess lead content in drinking water. While pending confirmation of the causes, the high level inter-departmental meeting had come to a view that operators of the facilities built in or after 2005, the users of which were mainly children below six and users who stayed in the facilities for a long time and consumed drinking water, should consider installation of filters which could reduce the lead content in water. As such, EDB advised operators of kindergartens to install filters which could reduce the lead content in water as soon as practicable. The Government Logistics Department (GLD) would assist kindergartens and schools in need (including schools built before 2005 and those non-Government built schools completed in or after 2005) for bulk purchase of lead-reducing filters. Besides, EDB would also install filters for Government built public sector or Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) schools completed in or after 2005 as soon as practicable. As children below six were in the more easily affected groups, the Government announced on 1 September that water sample testing would be conducted for kindergartens and primary and secondary schools built with public funding and completed in 2005 or after. Updated information was uploaded to the website of EDB, and EDB had also set up an enquiry hotline for secondary schools, primary schools and kindergartens to seek advice and information. Education Officers of respective district would also maintain communications with schools to provide assistance.
55. Mr WONG Yun-tat said that HD currently only arranged water sample testing for public rental housing (PRH) estates completed in or after 2005, which could not ease the anxiety of residents in other PRH estates. Even if PRH estates were completed before that, there were flat units with fresh water pipes replaced in recent years, which might use copper pipes or other materials suspected to be resulted in the excessive lead content. Therefore, he requested HD to arrange water sample testing for all PRH estates.
56. The Hon. LEUNG Yiu-chung opined as follows:
(i) The officials attending the meeting were mainly responsible for district administration duties, and relevant policy making officials should explain to DC on policy level.
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(ii) He asked HD about the reasons for water supply on each floor to be available at specific time slots instead of 24 hours.
(iii) He asked if HD knew that the quality of water from temporary water points was unsatisfactory, resulting in residents kept getting water from common area on the ground floor or took other measures.
(iv) The water flow from the filters provided by the contractors was too weak. He asked HD when normal water supply in flat units could be resumed.
57. Mr LEUNG Kam-wai opined as follows:
(i) HD currently only arranged blood tests for three more easily affected groups, while other residents also expressed their need for blood tests.
(ii) Transport and Housing Bureau (THB) said earlier that water sample testing would be conducted for PRH estates completed before 2005. He asked if HD had specific timetable.
(iii) For schools completed before 2005, although the pipes used were not copper pipes, the risk of excessive lead content in drinking water could not be excluded. He asked if EDB had timetable on water sample testing for those schools.
58. Mr LEUNG Kwok-wah opined as follows:
(i) Life of residents of Kwai Luen Estate Phase II were affected by the incidents of excessive lead content in drinking water, however, up to the moment, the Government had not announced any compensation schemes.
(ii) He asked HD when the replacement of water supply systems would be completed to resume normal water supply to the flat units.
(iii) He asked when EDB would finish water sample testing for kindergartens in Kwai Tsing and whether EBD would subsidise schools completed before 2005 and those non-Government built schools completed in or after 2005 to buy lead-reducing filters.
59. Mr NG Kim-sing opined as follows:
(i) The water flow from filters provided by the contractors was too weak. On the other hand, HD should test for the quality of filtered water to give residents peace of mind.
(ii) HD should explain to the residents the causes of milky colour in water from temporary water points.
(iii) HD should exempt water charges of residents of Kwai Luen Estate Phase II.
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(iv) He asked EDB that apart from arranging water sample testing for kindergartens, were there in place any other measures for assisting affected schools.
60. Mr LEUNG Wai-man said that since the occurrence of incidents of excessive lead content in drinking water in Kwai Luen Estate Phase II, HD and the management company of the Estate had made every effort to provide assistance to residents. He hoped similar incidents would not happen again. Besides, he suggested that HD should conduct water sample testing for PRH estates all over Hong Kong irrespective of their years of completion.
61. Mr LEE Chi-keung, Alan opined as follows:
(i) If contractors failed to comply with contract requirements of using water pipes and soldering materials meeting stipulated requirements, HD should request the contractors to replace those with up-to-standard water pipes and soldering materials in accordance with the contracts and held contractors liable as and when necessary.
(ii) The standard of lead content in drinking water was made reference to the standard devised by the World Health Organization (WHO), i.e. 10 μg/L, which was pretty strict, while the standard in the United States was 15 μg/L. Even if lead content in drinking water slightly exceeded the level set by WHO, the public should not be too panic. For cases that blood lead levels were found to have exceeded the standard level, the causes might also be other sub-standard kitchen utensils, toys or other household gadgets.
62. The Hon. MAK Mei-kuen opined as follows:
(i) The incidents of excessive lead content in drinking water was not only a scientific and medical issue, they also destroyed the public’s confidence in the water supply systems. The Government had to rebuild the public’s confidence in the water supply systems.
(ii) As water from temporary water points was milky in colour, she asked HD for solution.
(iii) After residents installed filters provided by the contractors, the flow of fresh water became weak, she asked HD if that was normal and if there were any solution to the weak water flow, i.e. installation of booster pumps.
63. Ms LAM Chui-ling, Nancy opined as follows:
(i) EDB’s support to the kindergarten sector was inadequate in the incidents of excessive lead content in drinking water, and the arrangement and guidelines for water sample testing was unsatisfactory and unclear.
(ii) Some of the kindergartens were not financially viable for installation of filters, she suggested that EDB should make reference to the practice of subsidising kindergartens 15
in the purchase of epidemic prevention kits during the swine flu in 2009 and subsidise kindergartens in the purchase of filters and provide other support as well.
64. Mr MAK Yook-ming, Stephen gave a consolidated response as follows:
(i) HA conducted systematic water sample testing for PRH estates completed in or after 2005 which were expected to be finished within September. Then based on the experience of the testing, arrangement would be made to conduct water sample testing for PRH estates completed before 2005. He reiterated that currently, HD conducted water sample testing for PRH estates by batches was not because of there were signs showing excessive lead content was found in drinking water in PRH estates completed before 2005, but for the peace of mind residents of PRH estates.
(ii) The water supply at temporary water points was from 7am to 9pm as the frequency and volume of water obtained by residents were less after 9pm. Outside these hours of water supply, residents could still get water from water supply system and filters inside their flats, and water supply facilities in the common area on the ground floor were 24 hours open.
(iii) The milky colour of water from temporary water points was believed to be caused by the air bubbles and was only more conspicuous in the morning. Residents could simply allow the water tap to run for 1-2 minutes and improvement could be seen. Water quality of every temporary water point was tested by WSD and complied with the standards of WHO.
(Post-meeting note: HD told that after water was taken, let the water stand still for a while, the air bubbles would disappear gradually.)
(iv) HA had requested contractors to investigate and submit comprehensive options for inspection and replacement of the pipes. The preliminary idea was to replace the water pipes in the common area first and then to conduct replacement work inside flat units. Replacement of pipes in common areas could be completed in a shorter period of time and had less impact on residents, and the removal of any soldering materials containing lead in public water plumbing system could reduce the risk of lead content in water supplied to residents. The replacement of pipes inside the flats had to be carried out carefully to minimise inconveniences caused to the residents. The comprehensive inspection and replacement of pipes would take a longer time.
(v) Response was given in the earlier discussion with regard to responsibility and liability, and he had nothing to add.
(vi) HD currently arranged blood tests for three more easily affected groups residing in
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Kwai Luen Estate Phase II, including infants, children aged below six, pregnant women and lactating women, and arranged blood tests for children aged between 6 to 8 by discretion. If individual persons needed to have blood test, they could call the hotline of the Department of Health (DH) (2125 1122) to make an appointment.
65. Mr CHENG Hon-fai gave a consolidated response as follows:
(i) EDB had issued letters to all kindergartens on 28 August to collect information for ordering filters. Kindergartens had confirmed information on 9 September and contractors would provide filters to kindergartens as soon as practicable. EDB would also conduct second round of purchase in later time.
(ii) Whether kindergartens would be subsidised for the installation of filters, he said that as kindergartens were private institutions, the costs for acquisition of equipment was always met with their daily expenses. However, EDB would relay Member’s suggestion to relevant departments. If individual kindergartens had worries or financial difficulties, they could contact and discuss with the district education offices (DEOs) of EDB.
(iii) EDB expected that water sample testing for kindergartens would be commenced on 10 September. WSD would be responsible for arranging water sample testing for all kindergartens. EDB expected to finish the water sample testing exercise for all kindergartens and relevant secondary and primary schools in three months.
(iv) EDB would study follow-up actions required for other schools based on experience, data, and the report and recommendations of the Task Force.
66. The Hon. LEUNG Yiu-chung opined as follows:
(i) The current arrangement of time limited water supply at temporary water points and 24 hour water supply at the standpipes on the ground was illogical, as the public could get water more easily on respective floors than on the ground floor, therefore water should be supplied 24 hours on respective floors.
(ii) He doubt the explanation provided by HD regarding the milky colour of water from temporary water points, as the water remained milky in colour. He said that some residents had no confidence in the temporary water supply systems on the floors.
(iii) He criticised HD for failing to address the problem of weak water flow from filters.
(iv) He opined that year 2005 should not be taken as the reference point, and he urged the Government to conduct water sample testing for estates completed before 2005.
(v) He felt sorry that no policy-making official attended the meeting.
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67. Mr LEUNG Kam-wai opined as follows:
(i) If kindergartens had to bear their own costs for the purchase of filters, the costs would be very likely transferred to the parents. The lead in drinking water incidents stemmed from inadequate supervision from the Government, it was unreasonable for kindergartens or parents to bear such expenses.
(ii) He asked EDB about the number of primary and secondary schools completed in or after 2005 in the Tsuen Wan and Kwai Tsing school net.
(iii) He agreed to the views of the Hon. LEUNG Yiu-chung, and criticised the arrangement for time limited water supply at temporary water points being unreasonable.
(iv) If estates and government quarters completed before 2005 had undergone comprehensive or large scale maintenance, they might have installed pipes with excessive lead content, so the Government should not ingore such buildings.
68. Mr LEUNG Wai-man praised the performance of HD’s lower and middle level staff. On the other hand, he condemned the Secretary for Transport and Housing (STH) for disseminating confusing information of the lead in drinking water incidents and being slow in taking contingency measures and carrying out investigation.
69. Ms LAM Chui-ling, Nancy said it was disappointing that EDB grouped all kindergartens as private institutions, as there were over 700 non-profit making kindergartens under the regulation of EDB, which should not be grouped as private institutions. In addition, she criticised that EDB should provide funding to kindergartens before the commencement of new school year in August to conduct water sample testing, and it was slow in response as water sample testing was just shortly arranged.
70. Mr LAM Lap-chi opined as follows:
(i) He agreed to the views of Ms LAM Chui-ling, Nancy, non-profit making kindergartens under the Pre-primary Education Voucher Scheme (PEVS) should not be deemed as private institutions. He opined that the Government should subsidise kindergartens for the installation of filters to protect the children.
(ii) He urged the Government to conduct water sample testing for estates completed before 2005, as many buildings had undergone comprehensive maintenance and refurbishment and might also had laid pipe with excessive lead content. Many residents worried about this.
71. Mr LEUNG Kwok-wah opined as follows:
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(i) EDB requested kindergartens to bear their own costs in the purchase of filters was unreasonable. Kindergartens needed to install filters was due to the lead in drinking water incidents resulted from inadequate supervision by the Government, and the installation of filters was not routine maintenance works of kindergartens, i.e. the costs should be provided by the Government.
(ii) He condemned the Chief Executive (CE) for taking leave during the occurrence of the lead in drinking water incidents and failing to pay visit to Kwai Luen Estate Phase II and other affected estates to understand the situation of the residents. He also condemned the Secretary for Food and Health (SFH), Secretary for Home Affairs (SHA) and CS and so on for failing to reach out to the districts to understand and address the sentiments of the people. He also opined that principal officials, but not just HD staff managing Kwai Luen Estate Phase II, should attend the meeting and be accountable.
72. Mr MAK Yook-ming, Stephen gave a consolidated response as follows:
(i) As residents’ demand for water after 9pm was lower and to minimise disturbances to the residents living near the temporary water points, HD set the time for water supply at temporary water points to 7am to 9pm.
(ii) Observation of HD officers revealed that the number of residents taking water on respective floor and on the ground was similar.
(iii) HD had installed filters for most of the households in Kwai Luen Estate Phase II. Residents could get fresh water inside their flats. Regarding the weak water flow from filters, it was suggested that residents could use filtered water for cooking, and for cleaning kitchen utensils and the like, unfiltered water, which had similar flow rate as normal water tap, could be used.
(iv) HA would conduct water sample testing for PRH estates completed before 2005 making reference to the result and experience of water sample testing for PRH estates completed in or after 2005. The arrangement and timetable would be announced later. Most of the PRH estates completed before 2005 did not use soldering materials in water pipe connections. The fittings used in the replacement of pipes did not contain lead, and routine maintenance of fresh water pipes mainly used fittings for pipe connections.
(v) Every temporary water point in Kwai Luen Estate Phase II were connected to drains, therefore, the temporary water supply system would not make the corridor wet.
73. The Hon. LEUNG Yiu-chung asked how HD could ensure that fittings used in the replacement of pipes were lead-free, as the Task Force had not found out the causes of lead
19 content in drinking water and soldering materials might not be the only source of lead.
74. Mr MAK Yook-ming, Stephen said that HD had confirmed that soldering materials was one of the sources to excessive lead content in drinking water.
75. The Hon. LEUNG Yiu-chung doubted if HD had confirmed the causes of lead content in drinking water that replacement of pipes was carried out.
76. Ms LEE Lee said that investigation by the Task Force was still on-going and not every cause of lead content in drinking water was identified, however, it was confirmed that soldering materials of some water pipes contained lead.
77. The Hon. LEUNG Yiu-chung doubted why HD could be sure that fittings used before were lead-free.
78. Ms LEE Lee responded that HD did not said that fittings used before were sure to be lead-free, and therefore, HD had committed to gradually conduct water sample testing for PRH estates completed before 2005. As water sample testing for PRH estates completed in or after 2005 was about to be finished in September, HD would work out the direction of water sample testing afterwards based on the experience in September.
79. Mrs TSANG CHAN Mi-fong gave a consolidated response as follows:
(i) EDB was based on the advice of the high-level inter-departmental meeting to decide on the installation of filters for schools built with government funding and completed in or after 2005.
(ii) DEOs of EDB always maintained close relationships with schools and if schools encountered problems in conducting water sample testing and so on, they could contact DEOs and EDB would provide assistance.
(iii) Members’ opinions on requesting the Government to subsidise kindergartens for the installation of filters would be relayed to EDB.
(iv) There were about eighty schools built with government funding and completed in or after 2005 in the territory, and EDB would provide information on the number of such schools in Tsuen Wan and Kwai Tsing later.
(Post-meeting note: EDB informed that the total number of schools built with government funding and completed in or after 2005 in Tsuen Wan and Kwai Tsing was 4.)
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80. Ms LAM Chui-ling, Nancy agreed to the opinions of Mr LEUNG Kwok-wah in that principal officers, such as SED, should attend the meeting but not just let officers of the local district respond to Members’ enquiries. In addition, she once again urged the Government to subsidise kindergartens for the installation of filters and doubted the Government for grouping non-profit making kindergartens as private institutions.
Motion: “The Transport and Housing Bureau and the Housing Department are requested to include all public housing in Kwai Tsing District into the plan of water sample testing, and the Transport and Housing Bureau and the Housing Department are requested to provide timetable and details on replacement of all fresh water mains in Luen Yat House and Luen Yuet House of Kwai Luen Estate Phase II, and the Housing Department and the Department of Health are requested to provide blood testing service for all residents of Kwai Luen Estate Phase II, and the Transport and Housing Bureau and the Housing Department are requested to provide basic compensation proposals for residents affected.” (Proposed by Mr NG Kim-sing; seconded by Mr LEUNG Kwok-wah and Mr LAM Siu-fai)
81. Mr LEE Chi-keung, Alan said that there was risk in blood test which might affect the health of children, so he did not agree to a full scale blood test service.
82. Mr NG Kim-sing said that many children had accepted blood tests service, and if blood test was not done, the overall impact of the lead content in drinking water incidents on the residents would not be identified. Therefore, he only suggested providing blood test service to residents of Kwai Luen Estate Phase II.
83. The Hon. LEUNG Yiu-chung asked the proposers whether they meant to provide full scale non-mandatory blood test service for residents of Kwai Luen Estate Phase II.
84. Mr NG Kim-sing responded that residents could decide if they would accept blood test service based on their own wills.
85. Ms CHEUNG Wai-ching, Clarice asked the proposers whether they requested replacement of pipes for all households in Luen Yat House and Luen Yuet House, Kwai Luen Estate Phase II.
86. Mr NG Kim-sing said that HD had taken 44 water samples in the two buildings, of which 5 samples were with excessive lead content. He also conducted water sample testing in the estate and found that all samples contained lead content, thus by inference, he supposed that all the pipes of Luen Yat House and Luen Yuet House were problematic and required full replacement.
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87. Ms CHEUNG Wai-ching, Clarice said that results differed in water sample testing conducted by the Government and various Parties, and she asked if the Government found any sample of drinking water to be lead-free.
88. Mr NG Kim-sing said that there were 3 different groups conducted water sample testing in Kwai Luen Estate Phase II. As results from one of the groups had great discrepancies with those from the Democratic Party and the Government, the result would not be quoted. According to the results of water sample testing from the Democratic Party and the Government, he made an inference that all the pipes of Luen Yat House and Luen Yuet House were problematic
89. Mr LAM Siu-fai added that although the Government did not conduct water sample testing for all households in Kai Ching Estate and it was not sure if all the pipes were problematic, but still, all the pipes in that Estate would be replaced. This could release residents’ worries.
90. Mr LEE Chi-keung, Alan opined that this was a matter of the contract. If contractors used pipes not in compliance with the standards of WSD, then all of them should be replaced.
91. The Acting Chairman put the motion to vote, and DC endorsed the motion unanimously.
92. The Acting Chairman received a provisional motion as follows:
Provisional motion︰“The Kwai Tsing District Council requested the Education Bureau to install filters for non-profit making kindergartens in the territory for free, ensuring that drinking water was safe for children and alleviating financial burden on kindergartens.” (Proposed by Ms LAM Chui-ling, Nancy and seconded by the Hon. MAK Mei-kuen)
93. The Acting Chairman put the acceptance of the provisional motion to vote. DC accepted the motion。
94. The Acting Chairman put the motion to vote, DC endorsed the motion unanimously.
(The Chairman returned and continued to chair the meeting.)
Information Papers
Salary Adjustment of Kwai Tsing District Council Non-civil Service Contract Staff
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(Proposed by the Kwai Tsing District Office) (K&T DC Paper No.50/2015)
95. Members noted the above paper.
Kwai Tsing District Coordinating Committee on Festivals (Proposed by the Kwai Tsing District Office) (K&T DC Paper No.51/2015)
96. Members noted the above paper.
Report of the Kwai Tsing District Management Committee meeting held on 19 June 2015 (Proposed by the Kwai Tsing District Office) (K&T DC Paper No. 52/2015)
97. Members noted the above paper.
Reports of the Kwai Tsing District Area Committees (Proposed by the Kwai Tsing District Office) (K&T DC Paper No. 53/2015)
98. Ms CHEUNG Wai-ching, Clarice reported that Tsing Yi (South West) Area Committee would convene a residents’ meeting on 18 September this year at the hall of Cheung Ching Estate Community Centre to discuss on the public housing development project on Tsing Hung Road. Up to the moment, the Planning Department (PlanD) and HD had confirmed to send representatives to the residents’ meeting. She urged TD to send representative to the meeting to explain to residents on transportation facilities in the area. She also invited all K&T DC Members to attend the meeting to give their views.
Briefing on Public Order Situation in June and July 2015 (Proposed by the Hong Kong Police Force) (K&T DC Paper No. 54/2015)
99. Mr LAM Siu-fai pointed out that drug trafficking in Shek Lei (II) Estate worsen in the past few months. He had seen drug addicts carrying out drug transactions in the Estate. There were many drug addicts gathered at the shopping arcade of the Estate in the evening, and residents worried that public order situation in the area would be affected. In view of the problem, he had sent letter to the Police to urge the Police to tackle the problem in high profile and promptly.
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100. Mr NG Kim-sing said that that illegal parking was serious in Hing Fong area, such as around Kwai Shing Circuit. As road surface was occupied by illegally parked vehicles, dangerous scenes were seen when bus passed by, and obstruction was also caused to ambulance and fire appliance. Another black spot was at the bend of the flyover (near Kwai Chung Police Station) in the direction to Sun Kwai Hing Gardens. People often parked vehicles illegally there, causing obstruction to traffic.
101. Mr WONG Kin Wah, Terry responded as follows:
(i) Shek Lei area was an old area, and the Police had always been keen in solving its underlying public order problems, including reviewing public order report of the area every day with a view to deploying resources for combating the problem.
(ii) As for people gathering in the Estate, he pointed out that if the people were not found to have breached the law, the Police could hardly intervene and he hoped Members understand.
(iii) The Police would keep maintaining close communication with Members of the local community to enhance the public order situation in Shek Lei Estate
(iv) Regarding illegal parking in Hing Fong Circuit, while resources were limited, the Police’s priority was to ensure that main roads were accessible and free from obstruction. For secondary roads and some narrow streets/lanes, teams would be deployed to enhance enforcement. He said that the Police would ensure that roads were free from obstruction and accessible by emergency vehicles.
102. Mr CHOW Wai-hung, Rayman said that he had assisted the Police in finding drugs in a flat unit suspected to be a “drug canteen” in Shing Hei House in June, but the Police had not prosecuted any person yet. After drugs were found in the flat unit, there were still many people with unknown identities visiting the unit and residents nearby suffered. It was suspected that somebody in the flat unit kept watching if there were any policemen or HD officers approaching and alert people inside to leave beforehand. As a result, the Police and HD could do nothing at the moment. He asked whether the Police had any solution to the problem to stop the abuse of PRH resources.
103. Mr WONG Kin Wah, Terry said that, the Police acknowledged the problem mentioned by Mr CHOW Wai-hung, Rayman. As the case involved a private place and personal particulars, it was inappropriate to disclose details of the case. He pointed out that even if people were found frequently visiting a flat unit in an estate, if there was no evidence of illegal behaviour, the Police could hardly intervene.
104. Mrs CHEUNG LO Pik-yuk, Helen said that HD also acknowledged the problem of the
24 flat unit mentioned by Mr CHOW Wai-hung, Rayman and a task force was set up to follow up and investigate. After the Police had sought advice from the Department of Justice (DOJ), the task force would discuss with the Police the next step to take.
105. Mr CHOW Wai-hung, Rayman thanked the front-line officers of the Police and HD for their efforts. However, he opined that if DOJ’s advice did not recommend prosecution, then nothing could be done again. He opined that if there was evidence showing that there were non-registered residents staying in the flat unit for a long time, HD should use its vested power proactively to combat the abuse of PRH resources.
Reports of the K&T DC Committees (K&T DC Paper No. 55/2015)
106. Mr LAM Lap-chi said that he received DFMC Circulation Paper No. 15/2015 submitted by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) on setting up of temporary cricket grounds at Gin Drinkers Bay. As the issue was not discussed in the meeting, he doubted if it was appropriate for LCSD to inform Members of the issue by circulation of paper. He asked if LCSD could provide the comprehensive planning on Kwai Chung Park (“the Park”) for discussion in the meeting.
107. Ms LIU Pui Wah, Stella responded that, to her understanding, Members of the District Facilities Management Committee (DFMC) had noted the paper and Member had no comment on the issue.
108. Mr LAM Siu-fai opined that submitting paper for Members to note was just to inform Members about the issue. He asked whether the proposal on the temporary cricket grounds was confirmed and information on its location, supporting facilities, facilities and mode of operation in its management.
109. Ms CHEUNG Wai-ching, Clarice provided additional comment on the earlier agenda item (Reports of the Kwai Tsing District Area Committees). She said that Tsing Yi (South West) Area Committee would hold a meeting at Cheung Ching Estate Community Centre on 18 September to consult on the approved Tsing Yi Outline Zoning Plan No. S/TY/26 of PlanD. As the project was about important planning in the district, she opined that in addition to PlanD and HD, TD should also send representative to attend the meeting. At the same time, she welcomed Members to attend the meeting to exchange views.
110. The Chairman urged K&T DO to invite TD to the meeting.
111. Mr LO Ying-ki, Alan responded that K&T DO would relay Members’ opinions to TD proactively. On the other hand, he provided additional information on the setting up of 25 temporary cricket grounds at Gin Drinkers Bay. He said that the DFMC Circulation Paper No. 15/2015 was issued on 7 August, and the letter attached had stated that Members were welcome to initiate discussion at the meeting of DFMC. Although the 4th meeting of DFMC (2015) was held on 2 September and DC would soon suspend operation, if Members considered that there was a need to convene a special meeting for discussion on the issue, then under the consent of the Chairman of DFMC, K&T DO would carry out corresponding preparation proactively.
112. Mr CHOW Wai-hung, Rayman opined that there was inadequate greening area in the district, and setting up 3 cricket grounds in a large area of land in the Park would deprive the public of greening area. He opined that cricket sport in HK was not popular yet, and the proposal to set up cricket grounds did not take into account the overall need of the community.
113. Mr LAM Lap-chi said that BMX cycling and cricket were both sports played by small groups of people, and the Park should be used for multi-purpose development. He opined that LCSD should consult Members’ opinions on the comprehensive planning of the Park at the meeting.
114. Mr LO Ying-ki, Alan responded as follows:
(i) The Park was 23 hectares in size, and the 3 proposed temporary cricket grounds to be set up were about 4.48 hectares in total.
(ii) If Members would like to convene a DFMC special meeting to discuss on the matter, advice could be sought from DFMC Chairman, and K&T DO would carry out corresponding preparation proactively.
115. Mr CHOW Wai-hung, Rayman said that the plan showed that the cricket grounds were located at the centre of the Park and taking into account the space taken up by their entrances and exits and the area taken up by the Hong Kong Jockey Club International BMX Park, space available for the public in the Park was signficantly reduced.
116. Ms LIU Pui Wah, Stella responded that there was certain level of demand for cricket facilities from people in the district, while exiting LCSD venues could not be altered for the use as cricket grounds, it was desirable to make good use of the land of the Park by setting up temporary cricket grounds of about 4.48 hectares in simple setting before completion of technical study and implementation of the comprehensive planning of the Park.
117. Mr NG Kim-sing said that land restoration for the Park was completed years ago and the problem of landfill gas was addressed. However, the date for the opening of the Park
26 was not fixed. In view that sitting-out facilities in Kwai Tsing was far below relevant planning standards and criteria and the Park was the only large public space in the district, he would like to know when comprehensive planning and confirmed date of opening would be available.
118. Mr LEE Chi-keung, Alan said that in past DFMC meetings, Members had suggested building featured sports grounds in the Park, but there was still no specific planning available. As detailed planning of the Park was not available at this stage, it was reasonable to provide some vacant land for short term use by non-governmental organization. Setting up temporary cricket grounds could not only better utilise the land, it also helped promote typical cricket sports in Kwai Tsing.
119. Ms TAM Wai-chun said that circulation paper about setting up temporary cricket grounds in Gin Drinkers Bay was earlier distributed to all DFMC Members, but no Member raised any opinions or question at the DFMC meeting on 2 September. If Members opined that detailed discussion was required, she agreed to convene a special meeting.
120. Mr LAM Lap-chi opined that a DFMC special meeting should be convened to discuss on the matter. On the other hand, LCSD should have comprehensive planning and carry out multi-purpose development for the Park.
121. Ms POON Siu-ping, Nancy said that transportation network should be developed before the Park was developed or the public could hardly be attracted to the Park. As cricket sport was not popular yet, people interested in the sports would still be willing to go to the Park to use the temporary cricket grounds even if transportation facilities were not comprehensive. Therefore, she opined that it was desirable to set up temporary cricket grounds in form of short term contract.
122. The Chairman suggested convening a DFMC special meeting for further discussion before the suspension of operation of DC.
123. Members noted the above paper.
Any Other Business
124. There was no other business. Date of Next Meeting
125. The date next meeting was to be confirmed.
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Kwai Tsing District Council Secretariat November 2015
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