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The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, visited North District this afternoon (March 6) to exchange views with the District Councillors and see the supporting services provided by a non-governmental organisation for young people and new arrivals.
Mr Cheung first met the District Councillors to exchange views on a range of labour and welfare issues as well as matters of local concern. He also took the opportunity to update them on various labour and welfare initiatives including the enhanced employment services for the youth and different sectors.
He then visited the Jockey Club Fanling Integrated Children and Youth Services Centre operated by Hong Kong Children and Youth Services in Luen Wo Hui. He was briefed on the after-school care programme, the after-school support programme, youth employment assistance and support for new arrivals offered by the centre.
Mr Cheung met with some youngsters who took part in a development programme with training on coffee-making. Noting that some of them are new arrivals or cross-boundary students, Mr Cheung shared views with them on their studies, career aspirations and adaptation to Hong Kong life. Mr Cheung was glad to see that through participation in the programme they not only acquired coffee-making techniques but also built up self-confidence and social communication skills. He encouraged them to set clear goals and equip themselves for the pursuit of further education or career development in the future.
He also observed an activity of a women's group in the centre and chatted with some grass-roots women to hear about the difficulties they faced in seeking employment and taking care of their children. He also heard some women volunteers discuss how they had emerged to become supporters instead of support recipients.
Mr Cheung also reminded them that the Work Incentive Transport Subsidy Scheme had been further improved since January this year, allowing applicants to opt for individual-based or household-based application. Those who work no less than 36 hours per month are qualified for half-rate subsidy, and receive up to $3,600 per year.
Ends/Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Issued at HKT 17:02
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