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The Government today (July 14) approved the provision of $3 million under the Financial Assistance Scheme for Family Members of Those Who Sacrifice Their Lives to Save Others for family members of Police Constable Tsang Kwok-hang, who died on March 17, 2006, while on patrol duty.
Despite his injuries, Constable Tsang protected the life of his colleague Sin Ka-keung, by shooting their attacker and seeking reinforcements through the beat radio.
The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, who chairs the committee which approved the application, praised Tsang for his heroic act. ¡§The late Mr Tsang remained loyal to the service and spared no effort to save his colleague, even in face of grave danger and at the risk of his own life. His gallantry and professionalism commanded our greatest respect,¡¨ Mr Cheung said.
"We deeply mourn the loss of such an outstanding member of our Police Force. The approval of the application represents the Government¡¦s recognition of his act of exceptional bravery and selfless devotion to the Hong Kong community. We hope that the assistance can provide some relief to his family members.¡¨
The scheme was set up in January, 2002, to provide financial assistance to family members of those who lose their lives attempting to save or protect others. Under the scheme, the amount of financial assistance for each approved application is worked out according to a formula having regard to the age and normal retirement age of the deceased and the prevailing median monthly employment earnings, with minimum and maximum levels at $3 million and $6 million respectively at present.
Ends/Monday, July 14, 2008
Issued at HKT 16:52
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