The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, reiterated his appeal to the public to attach the highest priority to effective building management to ensure fire safety during his visit to Kwun Tong district this afternoon.

Accompanied by the acting Director of Home Affairs, Mr Lui Hau-tuen, Mr Tung first went to Yue Man Square to inspect an old building which had fallen into disrepair as there was no owners' corporation (OC) to oversee its management.

His next stop was the Kwun Tong Industrial Centre where he was briefed by its OC on the maintenance of the outer wall of the building and the role of the owners' corporation. Mr Tung also visited a printing factory in the building.

He then inspected the environment of an industrial area in Hoi Bun Road and visited a market in Hiu Lai Court, Sau Mau Ping.

Referring to the On Hing Building fire two weeks ago, Mr Tung said, "The tragedy should serve as a stark reminder of the urgency to form OCs to effect proper and safe building management. Residents should not delay any longer in forming OCs. They provide a forum for residents to pool their efforts together in putting in place effective safeguards against fires."

"The issue has been the subject of intense discussions within Government and a number of positive steps are being taken to deal with the problem," Mr Tung said.

"Among other things, we are exploring the possibility of setting up a fund to help those OCs with financial difficulties. The Government has also deployed more fire services officers to inspect old buildings and encourage the public to be more concerned about their living environment," he added.

Mr Tung also stressed that fire prevention is a joint responsibility of the Government, building owners and tenants.

During the visit, Mr Tung learned that the Home Affairs Department is planning to set up a Building Management Resource Centre (BMRC) to provide a wide range of services, including free preliminary professional advice from lawyers, accountants, surveyors and property management companies to owners and officer-bearers of OCs. Relevant government departments, including the Fire Services Department, will join in the work of the BMRC.

The department will also soon set up district fire safety committees to promote and arouse the public's awareness of fire prevention at district level.

Before concluding the visit, Mr Tung met with Kwun Tong Provisional District Board members and local community leaders to exchange views on district issues and future development.

Kwun Tong District Officer, Mr Tsang Hing-kay, also accompanied Mr Tung on the visit.