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The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Gregory So, today (November 10) welcomed the provision of screening facilities and related upgrading works by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) at the auditorium of North District Town Hall to promote movie-going among residents in the district, in particular students and young people.
He said, "The Chief Executive mentioned in the 2015 Policy Address various initiatives to promote the development of the local film industry.
"At present, there is no commercial cinema in some districts. Following discussion among the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau (CEDB), the LCSD and the Architectural Services Department (ArchSD) and site visits, it was decided that screening facilities will be installed at the auditorium of North District Town Hall as a pilot project.
"North District Town Hall is at the centre of the district. Providing screening facilities at the premises will facilitate film screening activities by different organisations and promote movie-going in the community. This will cultivate interest in and appreciation of films among movie-goers and in the long run build up audiences and promote the development of Hong Kong's film industry."
The ArchSD will arrange for the works project. In view of the events already scheduled at the auditorium, the works will begin in September 2016 for completion by the end of the year.
Mr So said the CEDB will, having regard to the experience of the pilot project, explore whether and how to provide or upgrade screening facilities at government premises in other districts. In addition, the Government will also continue to work with the Hong Kong International Film Festival Society to conduct film appreciation activities and offer special concessionary tickets.
Ends/Tuesday, November 10, 2015
Issued at HKT 10:55
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