*******************************************
The Secretary for Security, Mr Lai Tung-kwok, visited North District today (December 11) to learn about the youth services and drug rehabilitation assistance provided by two organisations in the local community.
Accompanied by the Acting District Officer (North), Ms Maggie Kwong, Mr Lai met with members of the District Fight Crime Committee (North District) to exchange views on law and order matters.
Mr Lai then proceeded to North District Town Hall and chatted with a group of youngsters who were rehearsing for the upcoming Theatresports Competition 2015 organised by the North District Integrated Youth Service Centre of Evangelical Lutheran Church Social Service. The competition for improvised drama aims to enrich the team spirit of young people. Mr Lai encouraged the contestants to actively take part in healthy activities and establish a positive outlook on life.
Afterwards, Mr Lai visited the Cheer Lutheran Centre of Hong Kong Lutheran Social Service in Ching Ho Estate where he was briefed on the "We Cycle" project. The project, which is funded by the Beat Drugs Fund, provides cycling training to rehabilitees with a view to encouraging them to live a healthier lifestyle. Those who have completed the training are engaged by the centre as guides for bicycle tours to places of interest in North District and Tai Po.
Mr Lai said he was pleased to learn that the project has been well received and has made good progress with 70 per cent of rehabilitees showing reduction in relapse risk and over 80 per cent of the participating youths having their understanding of anti-drug messages enhanced.
Mr Lai also met with some of the bicycle tour guides and encouraged them to spread anti-drug messages before concluding his visit.
Ends/Friday, December 11, 2015
Issued at HKT 18:55
NNNN
