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Crop farmers and pond fish farmers affected by the recent floods may apply for help through the Emergency Relief Fund. So far, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department has received more than 230 applications from crop farmers.

"The rainstorm in these past two days has affected about 154 hectares of farmland mainly in Sha Tau Kok, Ta Kwu Ling, Sheung Shui, Fanling and Pat Heung," a spokesman for the department said today (May 6). "It is estimated that about 500 farming households may have suffered from the flood.

"Grants will be made to eligible applicants who are found to have suffered a loss to such an extent that merits assistance.

"All applications will be thoroughly investigated by departmental staff to assess the extent of damage and the amount to be granted," the spokesman said.

Application forms for the Emergency Relief Fund are available at the department's Yuen Long Agricultural Extension Office, 5/F, Yuen Long Government Offices, Tai Kiu Market, 2 Kiu Lok Square, Yuen Long; and Tai Lung Experimental Station, Lin Tong Mei, Sheung Shui.

Crop farmers or pond fish farmers who wish to apply for the fund should submit their applications in person to the above offices on or before May 15. Crop farmers may call 2476 2424 or 2668 0248 for enquiries. Pond fish farmers may call 2471 9174 for assistance.

End/Tuesday, May 6, 2003

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