Transcript of CE's remarks (with photos/videos)

Transcript of CE's remarks (with photos/videos)
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     Following is the transcript of remarks (English portion) by the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, at a media session after his meeting with members of the Action Committee Against Narcotics (ACAN) as well as the chairmen and vice-chairmen of the 18 District Councils today (July 16):

     I just met the Advisory Committee Against Narcotics and the Chairmen and Vice-chairmen of the District Councils this morning to exchange views on ways to tackle the growing problem of youth drug abuse.  I am very glad that they are in full support of the approach that we announced last week in tackling this problem.

     We also discussed a few measures that we plan to introduce very shortly, for instance:

(a) holding four large-scale seminars for teachers during the summer to help them step up their anti-drug efforts on campus, and providing them with on-line anti-drug resources in co-operation with the Hong Kong Ed City forum;

(b) holding seminars for parents at the district level and organising anti-drug community activities through the parent-teacher association network.  The first such seminar is scheduled to take place on August 8;

(c) arranging for professional social workers to man our anti-drug hotline starting August;

(d) launching a district-based anti-drug community programme to offer youngsters healthy and interesting activities.  I am very happy to learn that many districts have already formulated their plans which involve sports and recreational activities of various kinds which appeal to young people;

(e) continuing our discussion with schools and parents in Tai Po on the details of the drug-test trial scheme to be implemented in that district in the coming school year.

     I also take this opportunity to appeal to the public for support for the "Path Builders" scheme launched last year, which provides an excellent platform for every sector of the community to show their care for our younger generation to keep them away from drugs.

     Meanwhile, we are also studying ways to facilitate individuals and companies to make donations in support of this major anti-drug drive.

     We in the Government will continue to spare no effort in tackling the youth drug problem.  And I know we are not alone, because our community as a whole cares about our youths.   Knowing this, I am sure no obstacle is too big for us.

     Thank you very much.

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

Ends/Thursday, July 16, 2009
Issued at HKT 13:08

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