Working Reports
WK LO's LegCo Express (July 2023)
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WK LO's LegCo Express
July 2023
1. Tackling Safety Problems Caused by Building Dilapidation
On 21 July, together with some other LegCo members and district members, I met with officials of the Development Bureau and the Buildings Department to express residents' concerns about the maintenance and safety of old buildings in various districts. I pointed out that in order to thoroughly resolve the safety problems caused by dilapidated buildings, the Government must introduce more measures to promote the redevelopment of old districts and inspection and maintenance of buildings.
2. Expressed concerns about the Government's resumption of brownfield sites
The Government has issued written notices to the brownfield sites business operators to require land resumption or demolition recently. On 12 July, together with some other legCo members, I held a press conference and expressed the concerns from the Construction sector as well as urged the Government to find ways to develop new land. I also pointed out that, at a time when innovation and technology development was vigorously pursued, the Government's planning should not only consider the future industries but also the land for the industries. The administration's response was positive and it would continue to communicate with different stakeholders in the industry.
3. Funding projects approved at the FC meetings
At the FC meeting of 7 July, members approved a funding project of HK$744.3 million for the construction of the Quarry Park in Anderson Road Quarry. On 14 July, members approved the relocation of Sha Tin Sewage Treatment Works to caverns with a cost of HK$3.1 billion. Starting from January to July 2023, funding projects with around HK$120.6 billion were endorsed by the FC.
4. Published my book “Healthcare, Food, Housing and Transport during the Epidemic”
On 24 July, a book-sharing session was held on my new book "Healthcare, Food, Housing and Transport during the Epidemic" at the Convention and Exhibition Centre. With the theme of "Engineering, Music, Food and Life", I shared my life journey and important moments. Thanks to all the friends who took time out of their busy schedules to attend the sharing session, the 100-seat auditorium was packed! On 26 and 28 July, I also arranged the book signing for our LegCo staff and colleagues. The response was very favourable. The 40-minute full-length video is now available on YouTube for your sharing. https://youtube.com/@lowaikwok5267
5. Labour Importation Scheme for Construction Sector to accept applications from 17 July 2023
The Labour Importation Scheme for the Construction Sector will be open for applications from July 17, 2023. Under the Construction Sector Scheme, public sector construction works contracts with a contract value of no less than $1 billion will be accorded priority. Principal contractors of eligible works contracts may submit applications, for themselves or on behalf of their sub-contractors, for importing skilled labour and semi-skilled labour, and technicians and site supervisory personnel. The application forms and details of the Construction Sector Scheme have been uploaded onto the DEVB webpage (www.devb.gov.hk/en/css).
6. LegCo delegation concludes study visit to Fujian
I joined the LegCo five-day study visit to Fujian province with other LegCo members from 15 to 19 July to learn about the latest development of their high-quality industries and explore ways to strengthen the cooperation between Hong Kong and Fujian in various areas. This visit has helped Members to understand and grasp the latest development of the high-quality industries in Fujian. Members also had the opportunity to meet with various provincial and city leaders to exchange views on strengthening the collaboration between Hong Kong and Fujian in various areas.
7. Supporting Hong Kong Athletes to Compete in the Hangzhou Asian Games
The Hangzhou Asian Games will be held from 23 September to 8 October 2023. On 5 July, the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong China together with Rock, the brand new mascot of the Hong Kong, China Delegation, invited LegCo members to cheer and root for our athletes so as to encourage public support and active participation from the public.