Renovation worker convicted for illegal disposal of construction waste on government land in Tsuen Wan following report from public
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     A renovation worker who illegally disposed of construction waste on government land in Tsuen Wan was fined $5,000 by Fanling Magistrates' Courts today (April 11) for contravening the Waste Disposal Ordinance (WDO).

     A spokesman for the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) said that the department received a report from a member of the public with video recording in November 2016, which indicated that waste was being illegally deposited on government land near Pai Min Kok Village in Tsuen Wan. EPD staff traced the renovation worker involved based on the information and video provided. After investigation, it was confirmed that the worker had illegally deposited several bags of rubble and some wooden planks at the area after completion of renovation works nearby. The EPD subsequently prosecuted the worker in accordance with the WDO.

     The spokesman urged the public to make a report to the EPD when witnessing illegal dumping of construction waste. EPD enforcement staff will conduct investigation according to the information provided and initiate prosecution should there be sufficient evidence.

     Under the WDO, it is an offence for anyone to dispose of waste at public places, on government land or without the permission from land owners. First-time offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and six months' imprisonment. A maximum fine of $500,000 and six months' imprisonment may be imposed on second or subsequent convictions. In addition, a daily fine of $10,000 may be imposed for a continuing offence.

     The spokesman reminded members of the public, especially those involved in building renovation or handling waste, that they should dispose of waste properly in accordance with the law. Reusable materials or waste with recycling value should be collected by recyclers, while non-recyclable waste should be delivered to appropriate waste management facilities, such as designated waste transfer stations, public fill reception facilities or landfills, for proper treatment or disposal.

Ends/Tuesday, April 11, 2017
Issued at HKT 15:15

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