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Following is a transcript of the remarks by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare (SLW), Mr Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, at a stand-up media session today (July 10) on the Causeway Bay industrial accident:
Reporter: Do you have any idea how the accident happened and what would the Labour Department do in the wake of the accident?
SLW: Apparently the accident happened when the crane was lowering its height. During the process, apparently something had gone wrong. We will launch a thorough investigation into the case and in the meantime we have suspended the operation of the site. I have also directed the Commissioner for Labour to launch a thorough inspection of all similar sites in Hong Kong from tomorrow. It will take a few weeks. This is to ensure that they are safe.
Reporter: Are there any provisions requiring the companies to have regular check-up?
SLW: We have a very clear code of practice for them to follow and also the contractor should ensure the safety of workers at site. If at the end of the investigation we can establish criminal liability, then whoever is responsible will be subject to a fine of up to $200,000 and imprisonment for 12 months. We will be investigating very carefully and thoroughly.
Reporter: ¡K..?
SLW: It¡¦s quite uncommon. We will certainly look into the case and the reasons for the accident. We will also try to devise solutions as necessary to minimise similar accidents in the future.
(Please also refer to the Chinese transcript.)
Ends/Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Issued at HKT 21:59
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