*********************************************************
The Monitoring Committee on Implementation of the SARS Expert Committee Report's Recommendations this morning (January 19) began its first meeting to check Hong Kong's state of readiness for a possible return of SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome).
The Monitoring Committee was appointed by the Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, last October to oversee the implementation of the recommendations of the SARS Expert Committee Report.
It comprises former members of the SARS Expert Committee - former co-chairpersons Sir Cyril Chantler and Professor Sian Griffiths, and Professor Rosie Young and Dr Lee Shiu-hung - and Legislative Councillor Dr Lo Wing-lok.
During the three-day meeting, the Monitoring Committee will discuss progress reports by the Health, Welfare and Food Bureau task force responsible for co-ordinating the implementation of the recommendations.
Members will also visit the Public Health Laboratory Centre and a hospital to inspect the measures and facilities in place and to hear the views of frontline staff on the improvements made since last year's outbreak of SARS. They will discuss research and training with academics from local universities.
This morning, members agreed that written materials for review by the Monitoring Committee and records of the meeting would be posted on the Health, Welfare and Food Bureau website as soon as practicable to enhance public understanding on the work being done on SARS and public health.
The Monitoring Committee will make periodic reports to the Chief Executive on the progress in implementing the Expert Committee's recommendations.
Ends/Monday, January 19, 2004
NNNN
