********************************************
In view of public concern about the excavation works at Sai Wan in Sai Kung, the Government departments concerned mounted joint efforts and carried out an inspection of the site this morning (July 19).
Joining the inspection were representatives from the Environment Bureau (ENB), Environmental Protection Department (EPD), Lands Department (LandsD) and Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD).
"The Government attaches great importance to this site," said a Government spokesman.
"There is no infringement of the Country Park boundary but the excavation works involve both private and some Government land," the spokesman said.
The affected areas are mainly private lots and are outside Sai Kung East Country Park but some Government land adjoining to the private land is affected.
Sai Kung District Lands Office (DLO/SK) has already taken land control action by erecting notice boards thereon against further unauthorised excavation or occupation of the Government land.
For the private lots affected and according to the lease covenant, no buildings shall be erected on the agricultural lots and any redevelopment of the building lots shall obtain approval from DLO/SK. So far, DLO/SK has not received any application for buildings on the agricultural lots or redevelopment of the building lots.
Notwithstanding the above, DLO/SK has issued advisory letters to the landowners reminding them:
(a) to respect the boundary of the Government land; and
(b) not to erect any structures on the agricultural lots; and
(c) to obtain approval from DLO/SK for any redevelopment of the building lots before the related works commence on site.
Meanwhile, three bulldozers were seen on site today. The workers on site were reminded that the beach of Sai Wan falls inside Sai Kung East Country Park. They are required to apply for permission from the Country and Marine Parks Authority if they intend to move the bulldozers away from the site through the beach.
So far, no violation of pollution control legislation under EPD's purview can be observed. Nevertheless, the personnel on site have been reminded of the pollution control requirements.
"The departments concerned will continue to monitor the case closely and will meet the private lot owners to follow up the case. Further enforcement actions will be taken when necessary," the spokesman added.
Ends/Monday, July 19, 2010
Issued at HKT 21:14
NNNN