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ExCo agrees to set up statutory Commission of Inquiry
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     At the Executive Council meeting today (October 9), the Chief Executive in Council has approved in principle the setting up of a Commission of Inquiry under the Commissions of Inquiry Ordinance (Cap. 86) to investigate into the collision of two passenger vessels near Lamma Island on October 1, 2012.

     The Terms of Reference of the Commission, as approved by the Executive Council, are to inquire into the facts and circumstances leading to and surrounding the collision of the two vessels that took place near Lamma Island, Hong Kong, on October 1, 2012:

(a) ascertain the causes of the incident and make appropriate findings thereof;

(b) consider and evaluate the general conditions of maritime safety concerning passenger vessels in Hong Kong and the adequacy or otherwise of the present system of control; and

(c) make recommendations on measures, if any, required for the prevention of the recurrence of similar incidents in future.

     The Government is actively securing the most appropriate person(s) to be appointed as Commissioner(s). Once the suitable person(s) have been identified, the Executive Council's approval will be sought for formal appointment of the Commission. The formal appointment will be published in the Gazette.

     The collision of two passenger vessels near Lamma Island on October 1 has resulted in the death of 39 passengers and injuries among many other passengers.

     The tragedy has aroused wide public concern about its cause and the broader question of marine regulation and safety in Hong Kong.

Ends/Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Issued at HKT 14:45

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