************************************************************
The Secretary for Home Affairs, Mr Tsang Tak-sing, visited Tai O today (June 9) to gain a better understanding of the latest situation in the village which was affected by the recent rainstorms, as well as the residents' needs and concern.
Accompanied by Islands District Officer Mr Byron Lam, Mr Tsang inspected a number of areas in Tai O which were damaged by the heavy rainfalls and landslides.
Mr Tsang also met with members of the Tai O Rural Committee, district councillors, village representatives and local residents to learn about their present situation and needs.
He sent his regards to the affected residents and promised that the Home Affairs Department (HAD) would try its best to coordinate among various departments to help them resume a normal life as soon as possible.
On some residents' concern that their houses were piled by mud, Mr Tsang said apart from taking the initiative to contact the affected residents, the HAD had already liaised with the Civil Aid Service to assist the residents in clearing up the mud today. Arrangements have also been made by the SARG for contractors to remove the debris. HAD would continue to understand if more residents were facing similar problem through the rural committee.
In response to residents' request, the SARG, in addition to the announcements yesterday, has liaised with the ferry operators to run one extra ferry from Tai O to Tung Chung at 6.30 am during holidays to facilitate those who have to work in these days. An extra ferry from Tung Chung to Tai O at 8 am will also be arranged in week days to facilitate students going to school.
Mr Tsang said, "The Islands District Office's Emergency Coordination Centre will continue to operate to enhance communication with the residents. Staff from the District Office will also be deployed to the Tai O Rural Committee to provide assistance for the residents. Furthermore, the HAD will strengthen the manpower of the Islands District Office should needs arise."
"We will continue to keep in close contact with the Tai O Rural Committee and the Islands District Council to keep abreast of the residents' needs and concern. We will make every effort to provide appropriate assistance to the residents."
Ends/Monday, June 9, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:01
NNNN
