<?xml version="1.0" encoding="iso-8859-1"?><?xml-stylesheet href="style.xsl" type="text/xsl"?><rss version="2.0"><channel><title>HKSAR Government Press Releases</title><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/today.htm</link><image><url>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/rss/rss_logo_en.gif</url><title>HKSAR Government Press Releases</title><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/today.htm</link></image><description>HKSAR Government - Press Releases</description><language>en-UK</language><copyright>Copyright, HKSAR Government</copyright><webMaster>irc@isd.gov.hk</webMaster><pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2009 16:00:00 GMT</pubDate><lastBuildDate>Sat, 10 Jan 2009 04:13:00 GMT</lastBuildDate><generator>ISD PR RSS Generator 3.21</generator><item><title>Appeal for information on missing girl (with photo)</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/10/P200901100135.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/10/P200901100135.htm</link><pubDate>Sat, 10 Jan 2009 04:04:07 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[Police today (January 10) appealed for information about a girl missing in Kowloon City. Lam Sze-man, 14, left Home Care for Girls on Argyle Street, Kowloon City on November 10, 2008 and went missing. The guardian of home care made a report to the Police on the next day. She is about 1.5 meters tall, of medium build and weighs about 50 kg. She has a long face, yellow complexion and long black hair. She was last seen wearing school uniform with white colour shirt and green colour skirt with checked pattern. Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing girl or who may have seen him is urged to contact the Regional Missing Person Unit, Kowloon West, on 2760 5564 or 9020 6542 any police station. Police report No.5 ]]></description></item><item><title>No.3 alarm fire in Lau Fau Shan</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/10/P200901100134.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/10/P200901100134.htm</link><pubDate>Sat, 10 Jan 2009 03:55:57 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[A fire broke out at Deep Bay Road, Lau Fau Shan in the New Territories at 9.54am today (January 10). The fire was upgraded to No.3 alarm at 11.28am. Other details are yet to be available. ]]></description></item><item><title>Live chicken supply</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/10/P200901100117.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/10/P200901100117.htm</link><pubDate>Sat, 10 Jan 2009 02:28:07 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[The number of live chickens available at the Cheung Sha Wan Temporary Wholesale Poultry Market this morning (January 10) is 13,198, with 7,000 imported from the Mainland and 6,198 from local farms. A spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department said the average wholesale price was $20.8 per catty.]]></description></item><item><title>Traffic arrangements for race meeting in Sha Tin today</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/10/P200901100114.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/10/P200901100114.htm</link><pubDate>Sat, 10 Jan 2009 02:18:37 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[Police advise motorists that special traffic arrangements will be implemented in Sha Tin to facilitate the race meeting this afternoon (January 10). The arrangements will come into effect two hours before the start of the first race and will last until the crowds have dispersed after the race meeting. Appropriate traffic signs will be put up and traffic Police will be on hand to guide motorists. Police also appeal to people going to the Shatin Racecourse for the race meeting and the Happy Valley Racecourse for cross betting to make maximum use of public transport. Parking spaces in the two racecourses are available only to holders of appropriate permits issued by Hong Kong Jockey Club and any vehicles illegally parked will be towed away. ]]></description></item><item><title>Red flag hoisted</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/10/P200901100094.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/10/P200901100094.htm</link><pubDate>Sat, 10 Jan 2009 00:15:42 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[Attention TV/radio announcers: Please broadcast the following as soon as possible: Here is an item of interest to swimmers. Due to big waves, red flag has been hoisted at Silverstrand Beach in Sai Kung District. Beach-goers are advised not to swim at the beach.]]></description></item><item><title>Territory-wide flag day today</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/10/P200901090227.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/10/P200901090227.htm</link><pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2009 22:01:22 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[Attention Duty Announcers, TV and radio stations: Please broadcast the following special announcement at frequent intervals this morning (January 10): The Social Welfare Department announces that today is a territory-wide flag day. Sheng Kung Hui St Christopher's Home Limited has been approved to sell flags throughout the territory from 7am to 12.30pm. For enquiries, please call the department's hotline at 2343 2255. ]]></description></item><item><title>CHP advises closure of a Jacuzzi at a private clubhouse</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090346.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090346.htm</link><pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2009 13:10:37 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 9) advised a private clubhouse in Discovery Bay to temporarily close its Jacuzzi facilities to facilitate investigation into a case of Legionnaires' Disease (LD) involving a 38-year-old man. Preliminary laboratory tests on water samples taken at the clubhouse's Jacuzzi earlier this month yielded positive results for Legionella, a type of bacteria that caused LD. Further tests are being conducted. A spokesman for CHP said the temporary closure is a precautionary measure to protect public health. "CHP has conducted visits to the clubhouse and advised the management to carry out thorough disinfection and cleansing measures." The spokesman said a hotline 2125 1122 would be set up to provide health information to the residents there. The hotline will be operated from 9 to 5 tomorrow onwards. He added, "LD mostly presents with fever, dry cough, shortness of breath, tiredness, headache, muscle pain, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. The incubation period is two to 10 days. Residents of Discovery Bay who had visited the Jacuzzi facilities should pay attention to their health condition and seek medical attention if they have the above symptoms." The 38-year-old patient developed fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pain and cough on December 27, 2008. He is now under treatment in a private hospital and is in stable condition. CHP's investigations revealed that during the incubation period, he had stayed in a relative’s home on Lantau Island and used Jacuzzi facilities in the clubhouse. He had also travelled to Mainland China. To prevent the disease, people are reminded to observe the following: * An individual may reduce their susceptibility to the disease by avoiding smoking and excessive drinking, and maintaining good health. * People handling garden soils, composts and potting mixes should take the following precautions: - Gently water gardens and composts using low pressure. - Open composted potting mixes slowly and make sure the opening is directed away from the face. - Wet the soil to reduce dust when potting plants. - Prevent working in poorly ventilated places such as enclosed greenhouses and - Wash hands carefully afterwards. * Proper design, operation and maintenance of man-made water systems. For more information about good practices to be followed in the design, installation, operation and maintenance of man-made water systems, please visit the website of the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (http://www.emsd.gov.hk/emsd/eng/pps/oa_ld_pub_cp.shtml) for the Code of Practice published by the Prevention of Legionnaires' Disease Committee in 2007. Information on LD and advice on preventive measures can also be found in CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk).]]></description></item><item><title>Public warned about unsafe cosmetic creams (with photos)</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090302.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090302.htm</link><pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2009 12:12:27 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[The Department of Health (DH) today (January 9) called on members of the public not to use cosmetic products called "新嬌麗回春素７天特效祛斑益膚套裝 (day and night cream)" and "TOP-GEL MCA" following a case of mercury poisoning reported by the Hospital Authority. The case involved a 44-year-old woman who was admitted to Ruttonjee Hospital on December 15 for generalised swelling. She was discharged on December 22. Laboratory results showed that the level of mercury in these products ranged from 2,432 to 8,333 times that of the acceptable level. The DH's investigations revealed that the woman had used "新嬌麗回春素７天特效祛斑益膚套裝" and "TOP-GEL MCA" since September 2008 and 2003 respectively. The products were bought from a shop in Central. The case has been referred to the Customs and Excise Department for follow-up action. A DH spokesman urged members of the public who have been using the cosmetic creams concerned should stop using them immediately and seek advice from their doctors as soon as possible. He said mercury poisoning is caused by an overdose of mercury in the body, causing damage mainly to the nervous system and kidneys. Symptoms may include tremors, irritability, insomnia, memory deterioration, difficulty with concentrating, impaired hearing and vision or change in taste.In the most severe cases, renal failure may occur.]]></description></item><item><title>Special traffic and transport arrangements for public procession this Sunday</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090334.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090334.htm</link><pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2009 11:52:07 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[The Transport Department (TD) today (January 9) issued a reminder that a public procession would be held at about 2.30pm from Victoria Park to the US Consulate this Sunday (January 11).The procession will take the route via Causeway Road westbound, Yee Wo Street westbound, Hennessy Road westbound, Queensway westbound and Queen's Road Central westbound. To facilitate the above procession, the slow lane along the procession route will be intermittently closed from about 2.30pm on Sunday.In addition, 41 bus routes and one green minibus route operating in the affected areas will be temporarily diverted from about 2.15pm.The concerned public transport operators will arrange publicity to inform passengers of the temporary arrangements. Members of the public are advised to avoid driving to the affected areas. In cases of traffic congestion, motorists are requested to exercise tolerance and patience, and follow instructions of the Police. The public should be alert to the latest traffic news via media. Details of the special traffic and transport arrangements are available at the Transport Department website (www.td.gov.hk).For further queries, please call 1823.]]></description></item><item><title>Hospital Authority update on Designated Clinics and Special Assessment Centres</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090322.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090322.htm</link><pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2009 11:51:42 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority: Regarding the services of the Designated Clinics and the Special Assessment Centres, the Hospital Authority (HA) spokesperson provided the following update today (January 9): The Designated Clinics today (as at 5pm) provided initial assessment to 25 patients.Patients who require further assessment and treatment have been referred to the Special Assessment Centres (SACs).The Assessment Centres attended to 143 patients today.A total of 55,474 attendances and 25,952 assessments have been reported at the Designated Clinics and SACs respectively since they began operations on September 23, 2008. The clinics and SACs will be in operation for at least six months and as long as there is demand for the service.Children who could not be assessed at the Designated Clinics on the same day of attendance will be given the earliest possible appointment in the following days.In the coming three days, a total of around 66 appointments have already been made at the Designated Clinics. As of today, the HA has reported 13 cases of renal problems suspected to be related to the consumption of melamine tainted milk products. The HA reiterated that the free screening service was a contingency arrangement with its prime focus on local children who had an "eligible person" status.Other patients will be referred to private healthcare providers to reserve adequate capacity for locals.]]></description></item><item><title>Tuen Mun Hospital gastroenteritis cases updates</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090326.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090326.htm</link><pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2009 11:46:02 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority: Regarding a medical ward of Tuen Mun Hospital in which some patients and staff had presented with vomiting and diarrhoea symptoms, the hospital spokesman announced the following update today (January 9): Two more female patients (aged 47 and 50) and one more staff member of the concerned ward have presented with vomiting and diarrhoea symptoms today. Appropriate tests had been arranged for the patients, and the results are pending. The patients are being treated under isolation whilst the staff member is on sick leave. So far, five patients and four staff members have presented with vomiting and diarrhoea symptoms. All are in stable condition. Admission to the ward has been suspended. Restricted visiting to and discharge from the ward has been imposed. Patients' relatives have been informed about the situation. Infection control measures in the ward concerned have already been stepped up. All other patients and the staff in the ward are under close surveillance. The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority and the Centre for Health Protection for follow up.]]></description></item><item><title>Hong Kong scientists receive 2008 State Science and Technology Awards</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090323.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090323.htm</link><pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2009 11:45:02 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[Scientific talent in Hong Kong is well recognised with a first-class award and six second-class awards conferred under the 2008 State Science and Technology Awards (SSTAs) announced today (January 9). "We congratulate the awardees on their achievements and encourage them to keep up their good work," a Government spokesman said. "Their outstanding results demonstrate Hong Kong's strengths and capabilities in both basic and applied research and development (R&amp;D). It also further affirms the efforts by the HKSAR Government in promoting innovation and technology. Their achievements will encourage the local R&amp;D community and help stimulate our younger generation's interest in pursuing science and technology." The award recipients include projects nominated by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government as well as projects nominated by other agencies on the Mainland.They are listed as follows: The State Natural Science Award (SNSA) * In 2008, more than 160 entries competed for the State Natural Science Award (SNSA), which is China’s most prestigious award in the field of natural science and aims to recognise academic excellence in basic and applied research in natural science.The research project “Carboranes and Metallacarboranes: Synthesis, Structure and Reactivity” led by Professor Xie Zuowei of the Department of Chemistry of the Chinese University of Hong Kong won him an SNSA second-class award.This project explores exciting new horizons at the interface of organic and inorganic chemistry, and its findings have important implications for the fields of catalysis and materials science.His work has resolved several fundamental problems in the chemistry of carboranes (cage molecules containing both carbon and boron atoms).One of the most important developments in this project has been the invention of a novel class of catalysts for olefin polymerisations, which may not only bring down the cost of producing plastic materials but also go far to eliminate metal impurities in these materials, thereby improving the purity of the products made from them. Professor Xie has also raised the tantalising possibility that the largest carboranes known to date, which were reported in this project, may be a new class of reagents for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy, a treatment that can selectively destroy cancer cells upon radiation. Professor Xie’s research has won him international recognition, and some of the work done for this project was highlighted in the March 2005 issue of Chemical and Engineering News, an official weekly magazine of the American Chemical Society. * Another SNSA second-class award was conferred on a project entitled “Chaos Anti-control and Generalised Lorenz Systems Family - Theory and Applications” led by Professor Guanrong Chen of the Department of Electrical Engineering of the City University of Hong Kong.This project belongs to the frontier of interdisciplinary scientific research on chaos theory, control systems and mathematical sciences.The main contributions of the project are: establishment of the fundamental rigorous mathematical theory of chaos anti-control; discovery of the dual system of the famous Lorenz chaotic system, namely, the internationally well-known “Chen system”; in particular, discovery of the generalised Lorenz systems family, which includes all previously unknown chaotic systems between the two extreme systems – the Lorenz and the Chen systems – and establishment of its fundamental theory and framework.The findings of this project provide some new theories and technologies for the applications of chaos theory in engineering, physics and biology alike. * In addition, an SNSA second-class award went to the project “Molecular Mechanism Underlying Sperm Maturation in the Epididymis”, with Prof Hsiao-chang Chan of the Chinese University of Hong Kong among its team of researchers. * Last but not least, the project “Theory, Methodology and Applications of the Uniform Design” also received an SNSA second-class award, with Prof Fang Kai-Tai of the Hong Kong Baptist University among its team of researchers. The State Scientific and Technological Progress Award (SSTPA) * In 2008, more than 660 entries competed for the State Scientific and Technological Progress Award (SSTPA), which is conferred on people working in science and technology and who have made outstanding contributions in the implementation of technology development projects and public welfare projects.An SSTPA first-class award was conferred on the project “Discovery of Malignant Phenotype-Related Molecules and Establishment and Application of Sequential Prophylactic Strategy in Gastric Cancer”, with Professor Benjamin CY Wong and Dr Jide Wang of the University of Hong Kong on its team of researchers. * The project "The Study and Engineering Application of a New Biological Technology for the Removal of Organic Nitrogenous Pollutants from Wastewaters", in which Professor Herbert HP Fang of the University of Hong Kong participated, received an SSTPA second-class award. The State Technological Invention Award (STIA) * The State Technological Invention Award (STIA) is conferred on people working in the fields of science and technology whose significant technological invention is being used to produce products, industrial techniques, materials and their related systems by applying the knowledge of science and technology.More than 150 entries competed for this award in 2008, and the project “High Quality Superfine Natural Polymer Powders and High-Value-Added Applications”, in which Professor Li Yi of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University participated, won a second-class award. Organised by the State Council of the People's Republic of China, the SSTAs are highly prestigious awards in the science and technology fields on the Mainland. They aim to reward citizens and organisations that have made outstanding contributions to scientific and technological progress.There are five categories for SSTAs. Apart from SSTPA, SNSA and STIA, there are also the State Pre-eminent Science and Technology Award and the International Scientific and Technological Co-operation Award of the People's Republic of China. The HKSAR Government has been invited by the National Office for Science and Technology Awards to co-ordinate and submit nominations from Hong Kong for the categories of STIA, SSTPA and SNSA.The Innovation and Technology Commission is responsible for the nomination of the STIA and SSTPA in Hong Kong. The nomination of the SNSA in Hong Kong is co-ordinated by the Education Bureau with the help of the Research Grants Council and the Beijing-Hong Kong Academic Exchange Centre.]]></description></item><item><title>Outstanding Estate Management Services Contractors Awards presented (with photo)</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090186.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090186.htm</link><pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2009 11:29:02 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Housing Authority: A total of 12 contractors providing outstanding property management services to the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA) were acknowledged at the prize presentation ceremony of the "Estate Management Services Contractors Awards 2008"held today (January 9). Officiating at the ceremony, Mr Thomas Chan, Permanent Secretary for Transport and Housing (Housing), said, "The event gives due recognition to the outstanding performance of service contractors engaged in the management of the HA's public rental housing (PRH) estates, Home Ownership Scheme (HOS) courts, commercial facilities, car parks, office buildings and factory estates. It also serves to encourage contractors to continue providing quality services." The HA started to contract out the management and maintenance services of its PRH estates in 1999. At present, there are 90 PRH estates and 11 HOS courts under the out-sourced management mode. By building a close partnership with the service contractors, the HA has been able to capitalise on the resources of the private sector and tap their experience in managing private properties, thus raising the level of its estate management services. Out-sourcing management services is a long-term strategy and the HA will review its implementation regularly and monitor the performance of the service contractors closely to ensure cost-effectiveness and the delivery of quality services to PRH residents. There were six major categories under the awards: Best Property Services Agent (PRH), Best PRH Estate (Property Services) (these two awards were further divided into two sub-categories according to the size of the estates), Best Cleaning Services Contractor, Best Security Services Contractor, Best Property Management Contractor (HOS and Non-domestic Properties) and Best Carpark Operator. To promote safe estate management, a special award entitled "Best Property Services Agent (Safety Management)" was presented to the contractor who struck a remarkable record of "zero accident claim" in all the PRH estates under its management throughout last year. The results of the awards were determined by the scores given by the assessment panel, while also taking into account feedback from the Estate Management Advisory Committees and the results of random surveys conducted among PRH residents and HOS owners. The 12 award winners were Good Excel Consultants Ltd., Creative Property Services Consultants Ltd., Synergis Management Services Ltd., Hong Kong Housing Society, Top One Ltd., Ying Wah Cleaning Service Ltd., Hong Kong Commercial Cleaning Services Ltd., Kai Fat Cleaning Co., Hong Kong Guards Ltd., Tonwell Security Ltd., Fidelity Property Management Ltd. and Yue Xiu APT Parking Ltd. (Please see attached table for details.)]]></description></item><item><title>HKMA urges Authorised Institutions to study its report on Issues Concerning the Distribution of Structured Products Connected to Lehman Group Companies</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090315.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090315.htm</link><pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2009 11:27:02 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority: Following the release of the report of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) on Issues Concerning the Distribution of Structured Products Connected to Lehman Group Companies on January 8, the HKMA today (January 9) issued a letter to all Authorised Institutions asking them to study the Report carefully and to implement some of the recommendations of the Report within a specified timeframe. Registered Institutions (RIs) have been asked to note in particular the 19 recommendations in the Report, which are aimed at strengthening the existing regulatory regime and investor protection framework. The institutions are expected to implement seven recommendations in accordance with a timetable determined by the HKMA, and to formulate plans on how to implement a further two recommendations for discussion with the HKMA by the end of March 2009. "The HKMA has already asked RIs to carry out a number of the recommendations in its previous circulars to RIs. We expect the other recommendations in the letter to be implemented as soon as practicable, to improve the existing regulatory regime and better protect investors," an HKMA spokesperson said. "Today's action is in line with the steps outlined by the Financial Secretary yesterday and relates to administrative measures to improve investor protection. The HKMA will work closely with the Government and the Securities and Futures Commission in the review of the regulatory structure," the spokesperson added. For further enquiries, please contact: Thomas Chan, Communications Chief, at 2878 1480 or Peggy Lo, Manager (Communications), at 2878 1687]]></description></item><item><title>14 employers ordered to pay MPF arrears</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090300.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090300.htm</link><pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2009 10:53:02 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[The following is issued on behalf of the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority: The Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority (MPFA) today (January 9) obtained two orders for payment of outstanding MPF contributions at about $230,000 against two employers in the District Court. Meanwhile, the MPFA pursued 12 claims in the Small Claims Tribunal for some $140,000 on behalf of 42 employees, who were owed MPF contributions by their employers. The District Court today issued judgment against two employers, Joint Well Management Limited and Data-form Engineering Limited. The defendants were ordered to pay the MPFA the sums of $186,560 and $53,244.99, being mandatory contributions in arrears and surcharges payable to 18 and four employees of the defendants respectively. Meanwhile, at the tribunal's hearing today, three defendants, namely Print-quick Limited, Treble Paper Company Limited and Ip Wai Yuen trading as Lee Ming Landscape Management Co., did not dispute the amounts claimed. The adjudicator ordered them to pay the MPFA the sums of $26,680.5, $18,900 and $10,780.5, being mandatory contributions in arrears and surcharges payable. The other nine defendants, namely Wong Yat Fai Jimmy trading as Great Freight Cargo Service, Soonbase Industrial Limited, South Sing (Kwong Ming) Transportation Co., Limited, Videonline Communications (Asia) Limited, Luk Moon Chuen trading as Chuen Kee Chiu Chow Restaurant (translation), Huge Fine Engineering Limited, Chan Kim Ming trading as Hung Fat Ki Sum Bakery, Sinotrading &amp; Operations Limited and Alcove Limited, did not appear at today's hearing. In their absence, the adjudicator ordered them to pay the MPFA the sums of $42,269.84, $22,386.1, $12,483.6, $9,875.26, $6,245.15, $4,326.93, $488.56, $300 and $138.38, being mandatory contributions in arrears and surcharges payable. The amounts awarded at both the District Court and the tribunal will be reimbursed to the employees' MPF accounts as soon as they are received by the MPFA. The District Court ordered the defendants each to pay costs of $930. The tribunal ordered the respective defendants to pay $152, $152, $180, $240, $126, $188, $226, $90, $196, $150, $178 and $60 as the costs in respect of the claims.]]></description></item><item><title>Estimated live pig supply</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090299.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090299.htm</link><pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2009 10:32:02 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[The number of live pigs arriving at slaughterhouses today (January 9) was 3,900, with 3,723 imported from the Mainland and 177 from local farms.The wholesale price for live pigs ranged from $950 to $1,260 per 100 catties, with an average price of $1,124, a spokesman for the Food and Health Bureau said. According to the information provided by the Special Commissioner's Office in Guangzhou, Ministry of Commerce, the estimated number of live pigs to be imported from the Mainland for tomorrow (January 10) will be 4,200.There will be a supply of some 100 live pigs from local farms tomorrow.The total number of live pigs available for auction tomorrow will be about 4,300. The spokesman added that announcing the estimated live pig supply for the following day could enhance information flow and transparency of the market.Members of the public and traders could better understand the overall supply of live pigs. Noting that the estimated figures only served as an indicator, the spokesman said the actual supply should be adjusted in accordance with market demand.]]></description></item><item><title>Statutory Independent Police Complaints Council to be established on April 1, 2009</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090289.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090289.htm</link><pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2009 10:15:02 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA["The Secretary for Security has appointed April 1, 2009, as the commencement date for the Independent Police Complaints Council (IPCC) Ordinance.The statutory IPCC will be established on the same day", a Government spokesman said today (January 9). The IPCC Ordinance (Commencement) Notice, which was gazetted today, will be tabled at the Legislative Council next Wednesday (January 14) for negative vetting. "The commencement of the IPCC Ordinance will mark an important step in further enhancing the independent operation of the IPCC and the transparency of our police complaint system.This will better ensure that complaints against members of the police force are handled fairly and impartially," the spokesman said. Enacted on July 12, 2008, the IPCC Ordinance codifies the existing police complaints system and turns the IPCC into a statutory body.It sets out the IPCC's functions, powers and operation under the police complaints system.The Ordinance also stipulates the statutory responsibilities of the Police to comply with the requirements of the IPCC. The main functions of the IPCC as provided for under the IPCC Ordinance include: (a) to observe, monitor and review the handling and investigation of reportable complaints by the Police and to make recommendations in respect of the handling or investigation of such complaints; (b) to monitor actions taken or to be taken in respect of a member of the police force by the Commissioner of Police in connection with any reportable complaint and to provide its opinion on such actions; and (c) to identify any faults or deficiencies in the practices or procedures adopted by the Police that have led to or might lead to reportable complaints and to make recommendations in this regard. The Ordinance provides the IPCC with a wide range of powers for discharging its functions. These include the powers: (a) to require the Police to provide information or materials relating to reportable complaints and clarify the facts, discrepancies or findings; (b) to require the Police to investigate or re-investigate reportable complaints; (c) to conduct interviews for the purpose of considering police investigation reports on reportable complaints; (d) to require the Police to provide explanations in relation to any actions taken or to be taken in respect of a member of the police force in connection with reportable complaints; (e) to require the Police to submit to the IPCC reports on any actions taken or to be taken by the Police in respect of the IPCC's recommendations; and (f) to require the Police to consult the IPCC on any proposed new or significant amendments to police orders or manuals relating to the handling or investigation of reportable complaints. IPCC members and observers are empowered to attend any interview conducted by the Police in respect of a reportable complaint and observe the collection of evidence by the Police in the investigation of a reportable complaint at any time and without prior appointment. "The statutory IPCC will be able to employ its own staff to assist it in discharging its functions of monitoring the Police's handling and investigating reportable complaints," the spokesman said. The Administration has been working with the IPCC since the enactment of the IPCC Ordinance to prepare for the effective operation of the IPCC as a statutory body.]]></description></item><item><title>Fatal traffic accident in Western District</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090292.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090292.htm</link><pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2009 10:07:27 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[Police are investigating a traffic accident in Western District this afternoon (January 9) in which a 48-year-old man was killed. About 1.55pm, a medium goods vehicle driven by a 51-year-old man was traveling inside Western Wholesale Food Market, and reportedly knocked down the 48-year-old male pedestrian. The pedestrian was rescued by firemen. Sustaining serious chest injuries, he was sent to Queen Mary Hospital where he was certified dead at 2.48pm. The 51-year-old driver was arrested for dangerous driving causing death. Investigations by the Special Investigation Team of Traffic, Hong Kong Island are underway. Anyone who saw the accident or who has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers at 3106 8800 or 3106 8848. Police report no. 12 ]]></description></item><item><title>SHA inspects district minor works in Sha Tin (with photos)</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090273.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090273.htm</link><pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2009 10:05:02 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[The Secretary for Home Affairs, Mr Tsang Tak-sing, visited Sha Tin today (January 9) to see the progress of minor works projects in the district. Mr Tsang said that in view of the financial tsunami, the Government had been actively carrying out minor works projects in various districts to improve community facilities as well as create employment opportunities. The Sha Tin District Council has so far allocated $15.55 million to the District Minor Works programme, with 41 projects to be or being launched this financial year. Accompanied by the District Officer of Sha Tin, Mr Andrew Lai, Mr Tsang visited the Stone Park in Sha Kok Estate where he was briefed on the district minor works projects carried out by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department. The site of the park was once vacant government land. Through active co-ordination by the District Office of the Home Affairs Department, beautification project was carried out by the Architectural Services Department in 2006 with the provision of pavilions, flower beds and a pebble path. The Sha Tin District Council also allocated $215,000 in 2008 for the installation of fitness equipment for the elderly and construction of additional entrances in the park. The project is targeted for completion in March this year. Mr Tsang then visited the cooked food stalls in Sha Kok Estate to learn about their business. He also toured the Hin Keng Neighbourhood Community Centre in Tai Wai where the offices of four non-governmental organisations and Junior Police Call Clubhouse are located to hold various activities to serve the local community. Through funding by the Sha Tin District Council, the facilities at the centre have been improved with the provision of audio-visual equipment. Mr Tsang was satisfied with the progress of the works. After the visit he met members of the Sha Tin District Council to discuss local issues and encourage them to keep up the efforts in carrying out various district minor works, to create a better living environment for the residents. The projects funded by the Sha Tin District Council include improvement and beautification works of facilities managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, enhancement of facilities in Home Affairs Department’s community halls, and a number of minor works such as construction of rain shelters, village roads, sitting-out areas, basketball courts and pebble paths.]]></description></item><item><title>Biggest outdoor farmers' market "FarmFest 2009" opens today (with photos)</title><guid>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090231.htm</guid><link>http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200901/09/P200901090231.htm</link><pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2009 09:59:02 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[The biggest outdoor farmers' market in Hong Kong, "FarmFest 2009", opened in Fa Hui Park, Mong Kok today (January 9) featuring about 200 booths promoting local agricultural and fisheries products. The three-day event is jointly organised by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, Vegetable Marketing Organisation, Fish Marketing Organisation and Organising Committee of FarmFest 2009. Of the 200 booths, more than 150 will sell local premium fruit and vegetables, chilled and dried seafood, organic products and ornamental plants while about 40 booths will sell local delicacies, gourmet food and specialty culinary products. This year the exhibition zone will resemble a traditional New Territories village with antique buildings, fishponds and the farming tools of yesteryear. Also featured in the exhibition are the themed specialties - organic sweet corn and grey mullet. Visitor can get to know more about the specialties by sampling the pleasures of a walk in the organic sweet corn field and a funny show of the king of grey mullet competition. A variety of fun-filled art performances, green living talks, game booths and displays are presented for the enjoyment of visitors of all ages. Admission is free. There will be free shuttle bus service every 15 minutes from Shek Kip Mei MTR Station exit B1. ]]></description></item></channel></rss>