Relief funds for farmers affected by Typhoon Nesat
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     Local farmers who suffered crop losses caused by Typhoon Nesat can register with the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) from October 3 to 14 for assistance from an emergency relief fund.

     An AFCD spokesman said today (September 30) that an appropriate amount of relief funds would be released to affected farming households according to the level of damage suffered.

     The department's preliminary investigation has revealed that about 450 hectares of farmland in the New Territories were affected by the typhoon.

     "After each typhoon or natural disaster, our staff will inspect farmland areas in the New Territories to assess the resultant damage," the spokesman said.

     "Depending on the gravity of the damage, we may launch an operation to provide some relief to affected farmers."

     Applicants for the fund should register at the office of the Department's Agricultural Development Division at 5/F, Yuen Long Government Offices, 2 Kiu Lok Square, Yuen Long, or call 2476 2424 for enquiries.

Ends/Friday, September 30, 2011
Issued at HKT 16:49

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