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The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, this afternoon (December 24) paid a Christmas Eve visit to the Hong Kong Construction Industry Employees General Union.
Mr Cheung met Chairman of the General Union Mr Choi Chun-wa and some members, who expressed concern over the pressure on employment brought about by the global financial tsunami.
Mr Cheung said, "The Government fully understands the concern of the construction industry. We are determined to accelerate and press ahead with both major infrastructure and minor works projects to create job opportunities and reduce, as far as possible, the negative impact on the industry. More than 55,000 construction jobs will be created in the next financial year."
He stressed that job creation topped the Government's agenda and called on the union to work closely with the Government to ride out the storm.
Mr Cheung also took the opportunity to provide an update on the Government's latest efforts to protect the rights and benefits of workers and promote labour relations and employment services, as well as occupational safety and health.
The visit was part of the secretary's liaison visits to the major labour unions.
"Through these visits, I hope to strengthen communication and co-operation with the labour sector in fostering labour relations, safeguarding employees' rights and enhancing their safety and health at work.
"I look forward to working closely with all labour unions to make our community a better place in which to live and work," Mr Cheung said.
Ends/Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Issued at HKT 16:42
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