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The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, today (Wednesday) promised prompt government action to tackle red tides during his visit to Islands District.

Mr Tung first took a helicopter ride to view developments on Lantau Island, including the Chek Lap Kok new airport and Tung Chung New Town. He then proceeded to Sok Kwu Wan on Lamma Island to inspect fish farms affected by the red tide and met with representatives of the fish farmers.

"We are aware that the fish farmers have been hard hit by this attack. We are also deeply concerned about its environmental impact," Mr Tung said.

Expressing sympathy to the affected fish farmers, Mr Tung said that the Government would take immediate action to deal with the situation.

"First, to avoid contamination, we will together with the fish farmers speed up the clean-up operation to remove the dead fish," Mr Tung said.

"Secondly, we will advise the public on the proper handling of seafood and closely monitor the seafood markets.

"Thirdly, we will provide the affected fish farmers with low-interest loans to enable them to resume their business as soon as possible.

"In the long term, the Government will seek to improve the red tide monitoring and warning system. This may include adopting the latest technologies from overseas and intensifying cooperation with our neighbouring areas," Mr Tung added.

Turning to the infrastructure developments on outlying islands, the Chief Executive said he was very impressed by what he saw on Lantau.

Mr Tung said: "The Islands District will play a vital role in the overall development of Hong Kong as we enter the 21st century. It will become a better place to live and visit for both local people and tourists."

Mr Tung also dropped by the Tin Hau Temple on Peng Chau where he was briefed on the development of village-style public housing estates on the island.

Before concluding the visit, Mr Tung met with Islands Provisional District Board members and local leaders at the Peng Chau Indoor Recreation Centre. Accompanying the Chief Executive on his visit were the Director of Home Affairs, Mrs Shelley Lau, and the Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, Mrs Lessie Wei.

End/Wednesday, April 15, 1998

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