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The Government announced today (June 29) that financial assistance would be provided under a scheme to family members of another three health care personnel who died of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) contracted at work.
"All three sacrificed their lives to save others. Their selfless devotion to the Hong Kong community, together with the high levels of professionalism displayed, commands our greatest respect," said Dr Yeoh Eng-kiong, the Chairperson of the Committee on Financial Assistance for Family Members of those who Sacrifice their Lives to Save Others.
"They all made gallant acts in the face of the unknown threat of a new disease. We deeply mourn the loss of these dedicated individuals.
"The Scheme represents the Government's recognition of the gallant acts and in a practical sense, our respect for the heroism they have displayed in serving the community in Hong Kong.
"We will spare no effort in addressing the needs of the bereaved families, and trust that the assistance provided under the Scheme provides them with some relief at this difficult time," said Dr Yeoh.
The Committee considered the three cases and agreed that their families should be provided with financial assistance, under the Scheme. The three are -
(a) Ms Lau Kam-yung, a Health Care Assistant who worked in the United Christian Hospital. Died on May 27, 2003 of SARS contracted in Ward 12A whilst carrying out her duties. The financial assistance is around $3 million;
(b) Ms Wong Kang-tai, a Ward Attendant who worked in the Prince of Wales Hospital. Died on May 31, 2003 of SARS contracted in Ward 8A whilst carrying out her duties. The financial assistance is around $3 million; and
(c) Dr Cheng Ha-yan, Kate, a Medical Officer who worked in Tai Po Hospital. Died on June 1, 2003 of SARS contracted in a convalescent medical ward whilst carrying out her duties. The financial assistance is around $3.6 million.
The scheme was set up in January 2002 to provide financial assistance to family members of those who sacrifice their lives to save or protect others. A Committee chaired by the Secretary for Health, Welfare and Food and comprising four non-official members (the Hon. Bernard Charnwut Chan, Mr Chau How-chen, SBS, JP, Ms Lam Shuk-yee and Mrs Leung Ngai Mou-yin, Justina, JP) was set up to serve as the approving authority.
Under the scheme, financial assistance for each approved application is worked out according to a formula having regard to the age and normal retirement age of the deceased and the prevailing median monthly employment earnings, with minimum and maximum levels at $3 million and $6 million respectively at present. It is disbursed in addition to any other assistance or compensation the family might receive in relation to the death of the deceased. Payment is funded from the Government's General Revenue.
End/Sunday, June 29, 2003
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