Family of deceased brave fireman given financial assistance
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     The Government announced today (February 17) that a sum of $4.05 million under the Financial Assistance Scheme for Family Members of Those Who Sacrifice Their Lives to Save Others (the Scheme) would be granted to the family members of the deceased brave Principal Fireman, Mr Leung Kwok-kei.

     Mr Leung died on December 4, 2014 after sustaining serious head injuries in an explosion whilst on duty attending to a gas leakage incident and rescuing people possibly trapped at the scene at Shek Kip Mei Estate on November 22, 2014.

     The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, who chairs the committee approving the grants, paid tribute to Mr Leung for his gallant act when he personally presented the notification letter to Mr Leung's family members at the Fire Service Department Headquarters this afternoon.

     "The late Mr Leung demonstrated a high degree of gallantry and selflessness to save and protect the lives of others. He spared no effort in rescuing people, risking his own life even in the face of grave danger. His professionalism and self-sacrifice command our greatest respect," Mr Cheung said.

     "We deeply mourn the loss of such an outstanding and devoted public servant. The grant represents the Government's recognition of Mr Leung's act of exceptional courage and gallantry of the highest order."

     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 the minimum and maximum levels set currently at $4.05 million and $8.1 million respectively.

Ends/Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Issued at HKT 17:58

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