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The Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, visited Tung Chung today (September 27) to look at the latest developments and recreational facilities in the district.
From a Tung Chung rooftop, Mr Tsang had a panoramic view of the new town. He was briefed by officials of the Planning Department, and Leisure and Cultural Services Department about the progress of work projects in Area 17 where a coliseum and a community hall with public library facilities will be built.
"The projects are expected to be completed by the end of 2009. Meanwhile, the Government is actively finding suitable locations in the district for the provision of temporary rental cultural and recreational venues to satisfy the needs of non-government organisations and other community groups in the district," Mr Tsang said.
The Chief Executive then visited the Tung Chung Health Centre to learn more about its various medical services, including out-patient and dental services; chest clinic and health protection centre services; as well as maternal and child health services. While the health centre provides family health and primary health care services, the attached elderly health centre offers free medical check-ups for those aged over 65, as well as health seminars on regular basis.
Next stop for Mr Tsang was the Tung Chung Integrated Services Centre of Sheng Kung Hui Welfare Council at Fu Tung Estate and where he talked to frontline social workers to understand their services and the difficulties their clients encountered.
He was pleased to learn that the centre provided community-oriented services for toddlers, children, teenagers, families, elderly people and new arrivals. Rehabilitation, community and counselling services are also provided to cater to the needs of individuals.
"We hope that with this service network and more people participating in community affairs, we will foster harmony in the community - a community where people care and support each other," the Chief Executive added.
Mr Tsang was then greeted by art works along the "Tung Chung ArtWalk" in Yat Tung Estate. The art-theme garden displays 29 pieces of sculpture and murals featuring the historical and cultural characteristics of Tung Chung.
"Thanks to the ArtWalk, with no space limitation as in museums, it brings art to the community by actually reaching out to residents. Its displays embody the history and development of Tung Chung and it is a good place to go for appreciating art and life," he said.
The Chief Executive also visited a shopping mall at Yat Tung Estate and toured the public library of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department. He also chatted with members of the public.
"I am pleased to see that Tung Chung residents care about community affairs. Their sense of belonging is important to foster harmony in the community. I hope that they will work with the Government to strengthen community networks in the district," he said.
Ends/Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Issued at HKT 18:01
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