Transcript of CE's remarks at media session outside Metropark Hotel (with photos/video)

Transcript of CE's remarks at media session outside Metropark Hotel (with photos/video)
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     Following is the transcript of remarks (English portion) by the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, at a media session outside Metropark Hotel in Wan Chai tonight (May 8):

Chief Executive: Today marks the end of the seven-day quarantine period for the guests and staff of Metropark Hotel. It also marks the end of all quarantine arrangements arising from the first, and so far the only, confirmed case of human swine flu in Hong Kong.

     The hotel guests have just left.  Some of them will leave Hong Kong tonight.  I wish them a safe journey back home, and I hope they will visit Hong Kong again very soon.  For the majority who are staying here for a few more days, I wish them an enjoyable time with the accommodation and travel arrangements we have prepared for them.

     We all understand the boredom, the frustration they experienced during the quarantine period.  Many of the guests have expressed understanding of our measures.  I was deeply moved when I saw their “We love Hong Kong” banner.  We truly appreciate that, and we are thankful for the sacrifice they have made for the sake of public health.

     I take this opportunity to thank all those who have taken part in this quarantine operation.  They include staff from many government departments, the Civil Aid Service and the Tourism Board.  They gave their best to take care of the daily needs of the guests, performing duties they don’t normally perform, to make life a little easier for our guests.  Their work, and that of many others who worked behind-the-scene, deserves our full appreciation.

     Nor shall we forget the hard work of the hotel staff who continued to perform their duties during the period of quarantine.  I also wish to thank the hotel management for their support for our work which has caused serious disruption to their business.

     Many of us might think that by now the threat of the human swine flu to Hong Kong has gone.  It has not.  Rather, the first case of infection marks the beginning of our fight against the new virus.  It is a wake-up call for us all to pay increased attention to personal and public hygiene.

     The battle is far from over.  The Government will continue to monitor the situation.  With more knowledge about the virus, the experience of a full quarantine operation, and the benefit of overseas data, we shall immediately review our overall strategies and measures and make changes where necessary.  Severe challenges always bring out the best of Hong Kong.  These seven days are no exception.  With the support of the public, I am confident that we’ll win this battle. Thank you very much.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portions of the transcript.)

Ends/Friday, May 8, 2009
Issued at HKT 22:04

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