kakase/hk_gov_press_release huggingface dataset:
SLW visits Eastern District (with photos)
22.3.2019

The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong, today (March 22) visited Eastern District, where he took a closer look at elderly services and met with District Council members. The Under Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Caspar Tsui, also joined the visit. Dr Law first went to the Eastern District Council to exchange views with the Chairman, Mr Wong Kin-pan, and members on labour and welfare issues as well as matters of local concern. Accompanied by the District Officer (Eastern), Mr Simon Chan, he visited the Hong Kong Society for the Aged Chai Wan District Elderly Community Centre. Dr Law pointed out that the Government had regularised the Dementia Community Support Scheme, which provides support for elderly persons with mild or moderate dementia and their carers in the community, since February and would expand it to cover all 41 District Elderly Community Centres (DECCs) in Hong Kong in May. The Government has also increased the number of social workers in all neighbourhood elderly centres and allocated more resources to day care centres/units for the elderly and home care services teams across the territory to increase manpower, with a view to facilitating early detection of elderly persons suspected of suffering from dementia and enhancing care and support for demented elderly persons and their carers. In addition, the 2019-20 Budget set out a four-year pilot scheme to provide Wi-Fi service at welfare service units with an allocation of about $205 million through the Lotteries Fund, covering about 1 350 service units subvented by the Social Welfare Department, including DECCs. Dr Law said that this would facilitate elderly persons patronising the centre, particularly those living alone and elderly doubletons, to communicate with their children, relatives and friends locally and abroad via free Wi-Fi. The pilot scheme would also facilitate welfare organisations to use digital equipment to provide more efficient services. Dr Law then proceeded to a restaurant in Quarry Bay under the social enterprise, Gingko House, and had a tea gathering with its elderly staff. Apart from hiring elderly persons to work in its restaurants and grocery, Gingko House also provides elderly persons with opportunities in activities such as voluntary work, organic farming and band performances. He said that the Government has been assisting elderly job seekers to secure employment, which could also promote active and healthy ageing as well as their sense of worth.
Transcript of remarks by SLW on Budget initiatives
4.3.2019

Following is the transcript of remarks by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong, on initiatives under the Labour and Welfare Bureau in the 2019-20 Budget after attending a radio programme this morning (March 4): Reporter: Mr Law, can I ask a few English questions? The issue that the Government - just now you acknowledged that there may be a little impact on the market with this plan. In what ways can the Government minimise its impact on the property market? Secretary for Labour and Welfare: We will take it (purchase of premises for provision of welfare services) very cautiously. As I have mentioned, in 2018, there were about slightly more than 8 000 transactions involving the type of premises (non-residential building units) that we are thinking of. We are considering only buying around 20 such premises in one year. Out of 8 000, the impact should be very minimal. I can't say nil, but definitely it should be minimal. We will try our very best effort to make sure that we will not use a very high price to buy. That will not be consistent with the procurement policy of the Government. Reporter: But the overall plan is to buy 60 properties, so are you saying that you are going to do that gradually? If there is any money left, what would you be spending that on? Secretary for Labour and Welfare: The initial plan is about (purchasing) 60 sets of premises that involve around 134, to be exact, facilities for welfare use. In fact, on our list, we have more than 400 such kind of service facilities that we require, so the more we can buy, the better. It depends on the availability and the suitability of such premises. Thank you. (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
SLW visits Sha Tin District (with photos)
26.2.2019

The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong, today (February 26) visited Sha Tin District, where he took a closer look at child care services and met with District Council members. The Under Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Caspar Tsui, also joined the visit. Dr Law first went to the Sha Tin District Council (STDC) to exchange views with the Chairman, Mr Ho Hau-cheung, and other STDC members on labour and welfare issues as well as matters of local concern. Accompanied by the District Officer (Sha Tin), Miss Amy Chan, and the District Social Welfare Officer (Sha Tin), Mrs Gloria Lee, Dr Law then visited the Hong Kong Single Parents Association Jockey Club Neighbourhood Support Centre. Apart from operating the Neighbourhood Support Child Care Project under the Social Welfare Department, the centre provides support to parents of newborn babies, including information on baby care, parenting and emotional counselling, with funding from a charitable organisation. Dr Law pointed out that the Government will continue to adopt a multi-pronged strategy to enhance child care services to support families by the planning of child care centres (CCCs), improving the manning ratio, increasing the subsidy for CCC services and providing more flexible services.
Transcript of remarks by SLW on adjusting eligible age for elderly CSSA
28.1.2019

Following is the transcript of remarks by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong, on adjusting the eligible age for elderly Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) after attending a special meeting of the Panel on Welfare Services of the Legislative Council today (January 28): Reporter: All the political parties are actually asking the Government to shelve the age change. Why does that not warrant the Government to consider shelving the whole idea? Secretary for Labour and Welfare: The policy decision has been made for more than two years already. The discussion has been thoroughly discussed and options have been considered, and the Government considered the present decision is proper. The only thing that we need to improve is the way that we are going to deliver, and to help those who are needing help to assist them to find jobs. I think that is the reason why we are making some of the refinements, so to speak, to accommodate the views of the community. Reporter: Even though you are worsening the relationship with all the political parties, it is still good for you to go ahead with this policy change? Secretary for Labour and Welfare: We will try our very best to improve the working relationship between the executive and the legislature. (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
Transcript of remarks by SLW on adjusting eligible age for elderly CSSA
26.1.2019

Following is the transcript of remarks by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong, on adjusting the eligible age for elderly Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) after attending radio programmes this morning (January 26): Reporter: Could you please briefly clarify whether elderly people would be punished and deducted from the allowances when they are reluctant to find jobs? Secretary for Labour and Welfare: For those who are 60 to 64 who are healthy and those who are able to go out to work, we will try our very best to encourage them to work. The minimum requirement basically is to meet our &ndash; what we call the Integrated Employment Assistance Programme for Self-reliance under the CSSA Scheme &ndash; (requirement) to see the social workers so that they can help them to find jobs. That requirement is quite minimal. Basically, they are only required to see the social worker once every two months. If they fail to do so without any reasonable excuses for not being able to do that, there will be a deduction of $200. That is only very nominal and symbolic. We just want people to know that we would try our very best to help them. There is no particular reason for actually punishing them. It is basically very symbolic. (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
LCQ16: Importation of care workers under Supplementary Labour Scheme
23.1.2019

Following is a question by the Hon Ho Kai-ming and a written reply by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong, in the Legislative Council today (January 23): Question : Will the Government inform this Council of the respective numbers of applications (i) received and (ii) approved in the past five years which were made under the Supplementary Labour Scheme for importation of care workers for residential care homes for the elderly; in respect of the applications approved, a breakdown of the number of care workers by education level and type of qualifications, as well as their current median monthly wage? Reply : President, My reply to Hon Ho's question is as follows: From 2013 to 2017, employers of the elderly care service sector applied to import 1 069, 1 885, 1 361, 2 039 and 1 694 care workers respectively under the Supplementary Labour Scheme (SLS). The numbers of imported care workers approved in these five years were 651, 1 377, 1 035, 1 383 and 1 510 respectively. The collation of relevant statistics of 2018 will be completed in the first quarter of 2019. The vetting of applications received towards year-end may be completed in the following year, and hence the number of imported workers approved in the year does not correspond to the number of imported workers applied for in the same year. The Labour Department does not have information on the educational attainment or qualifications of imported care workers employed by employers. According to the requirements under SLS, employers should pay wages to imported workers at a level no less than the median monthly wages of local workers in comparable positions. According to statistics of the Census and Statistics Department, the current median monthly wage of care worker post is $13,000.
SLW visits training centres for domestic helpers in Jakarta (with photos)
22.1.2019

The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong, visited two training centres for Indonesian domestic helpers this morning (January 22) before concluding his visit to Jakarta, Indonesia. Dr Law toured the centre's facilities, including simulated households and simulated home care facilities, and observed the practical skills training provided for Indonesians to work overseas as domestic helpers and carers. He also observed trainees attending language classes and met with the centre's trainers and staff to discuss tailor-made training across professions and collaboration with employment agencies. Speaking to the centre's management, Dr Law said that Hong Kong had launched a Pilot Scheme on Training for Foreign Domestic Helpers (FDHs) on Elderly Care in March 2018 to strengthen their skills in taking care of frail elderly persons, so as to enhance the quality of life of elderly people in the community and support ageing in place. A total of 300 free training places are provided, and two-thirds of trainees recruited are Indonesians. Dr Law added that, in view of positive responses from FDHs and their employers, the Government is planning to extend the Pilot Scheme to other districts, with around 800 training places in total starting from the third quarter upon completion of the training courses under the Pilot Scheme by May this year. Yesterday, Dr Law had a dinner gathering with Hong Kong people doing business in Indonesia. Dr Law encouraged them to look at the opportunities brought about by the country's Belt and Road Initiative as well as the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area when considering their business strategies. He added that with the unique strengths of "one country, two systems" and an excellent environment for doing business, Hong Kong is well positioned to help them tap such business opportunities. Dr Law concluded his visit and set off for Hong Kong this afternoon.
SLW hopes to further strengthen collaboration with Indonesian Government for better well-being of Indonesian domestic helpers in Hong Kong (with photos)
21.1.2019

Hong Kong is firmly committed to protecting the rights of foreign domestic helpers (FDHs) and maintaining Hong Kong's attractiveness for them to work, the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong, said in Indonesia today (January 21). In his meeting with the Minister of Manpower of Indonesia, Mr Hanif Dhakiri, during his visit to Jakarta, Dr Law noted that Indonesia is one of the largest FDH-sending countries for Hong Kong, and that Hong Kong families are thankful for the contributions of over 165 000 Indonesian domestic helpers (IDHs). They help relieve household chores and take care of the elderly and children, thereby unleashing the potential of the local labour force. Noting that Hong Kong is one of the few places that grant FDHs statutory labour protections that are on par with those enjoyed by local workers, Dr Law said he looked forward to strengthening collaboration with the Indonesian Government to further protect the rights of IDHs in Hong Kong. He welcomed more IDHs to work in Hong Kong in view of a soon-to-peak manpower supply and an ageing population. In addition, Dr Law met with representatives of the National Board for the Placement and Protection of Indonesian Overseas Workers as well as the Association of Migrant Worker Placement Companies and exchanged views on the recruitment of IDHs and regulation of employment agencies (EAs). Following the enactment of the Employment (Amendment) Ordinance 2018 last year, the maximum penalties for overcharging job seekers (including FDHs) and unlicensed operation by EAs were substantially raised with a view to further protecting the interests of job seekers. Dr Law assured the Indonesian Government that a Code of Practice for EAs is in place to regulate the operation of EAs in Hong Kong. The Code states that EAs must not get involved in FDHs' financial affairs or keep their passports without explicit consent. Speaking to the Indonesian media, Dr Law said that, to better protect FDHs from abuse, the Labour Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government would introduce an initial screening mechanism this year for early identification of FDHs suspected of being exploited. Enforcement against unscrupulous EAs will be stepped up. A round-the-clock dedicated hotline was launched in December 2018 with interpretation service (including Bahasa Indonesia) to provide one-stop support to FDHs. Speaking on other manpower issues, Dr Law added that a Talent List setting out 11 professions needed most for Hong Kong's economic development was promulgated in August 2018, with a view to attracting worldwide talents including those from Indonesia and other members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to develop their careers in Hong Kong. During the day, Dr Law took the opportunity to call on the Chinese Ambassador to Indonesia, Mr Xiao Qian, to update him on recent developments in Hong Kong. He will also attend a dinner gathering with Hong Kong people doing business in Indonesia.
SLW to visit Indonesia
19.1.2019

The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong, will depart tomorrow afternoon (January 20) for Jakarta, Indonesia, to meet with Indonesian senior government officials to exchange views and strengthen co-operation on mutual efforts in enhancing protection of Indonesian domestic helpers in Hong Kong. He will meet with the Minister of Manpower of Indonesia, Mr Hanif Dhakiri. In addition, he will meet with the National Board for the Placement and Protection of Indonesian Overseas Workers as well as an employment agencies association, and visit a training centre for foreign domestic helpers. He will also call on the Chinese Ambassador to Indonesia, Mr Xiao Qian. Dr Law will arrive in Hong Kong in the evening on January 22. During his absence, the Under Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Caspar Tsui, will be the Acting Secretary for Labour and Welfare.
Transcript of remarks by SLW on eligible age for elderly CSSA
14.1.2019

Following is the transcript of remarks by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong, on adjusting the eligible age for elderly Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) from 60 to 65 after attending a radio programme this morning (January 14): Reporter: It seems that there is a very slim chance for any of the proposed changes to be delayed or withdrawn. Why are you putting out such a firm position? Secretary for Labour and Welfare: The decision has been made for two years since the announcement of the change in policy back in the 2017 Policy Address. After that, it was just a matter of implementation. I would say we have been not too promptly in executing the decision that has been made two years ago. And now, we are going to implement the policy that was made two years ago. So, the decision has been made. So, to revise that policy or to revise that decision would take, I would say, a very long path. It is almost impossible for us to do anything before February 1. Reporter: So how would the Government respond to the public outcry so far? Will there be any special measures to help them in the process? Secretary for Labour and Welfare: We are considering what kind of measures, particularly administrative measures, that can be done before February 1 or be implemented by February 1 to help those who are needy and to provide more support for them, no matter in terms of welfare or in terms of employment support. Reporter: Can you give some examples? Secretary for Labour and Welfare: Within our welfare system, there are always elements that the public have expressed their views on needy improvement. In fact, one of the measures that was actually mentioned in the past few days - it was related to the disregarded earnings (for CSSA recipients), which basically means that, for those who earn some money while they are receiving CSSA, they can preserve some of their money (monthly earnings from employment) in their own pocket. At the present moment, it is $2,500 (total disregarded earnings per month) at the maximum. That was set back in 2003, which is almost 16 years ago. So, it is definitely time to review that particular amount. Because of the recent discussion, there may be a necessity to advance some of the changes that we had already been considering in the past. (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
SLW visits Sham Shui Po District (with photos)
4.1.2019

The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong, today (January 4) visited Sham Shui Po District, where he toured a youth hostel and a music education body and met with District Council members. Accompanied by the Chairman of the Sham Shui Po District Council (SSPDC), Mr Ambrose Cheung, and the District Officer (Sham Shui Po), Mr Damian Lee, Dr Law visited YHA Mei Ho House Youth Hostel. The revitalised Mei Ho House invited past residents to contribute to exhibitions about the building and has introduced life in old estates to students through teaching materials and guided tours. Dr Law said he appreciated that students could learn more about the essence of neighbourhood with a deeper understanding of social capital from these activities. He then proceeded to the Music Children Foundation, an organisation receiving a grant in the First Round Application of the Dedicated Portion of the Partnership Fund for the Disadvantaged (PFD) for implementing after-school learning and support programmes. The Foundation had provided free music training for underprivileged children since April 2016 with both its business partner's sponsorship and the Government's matching grant. Concerts have been held to boost participants' confidence during performance. Dr Law said he was glad to note that, upon completion of the above project supported by the PFD's Dedicated Portion in March 2018, the Foundation obtained sponsorship from other charitable organisations to extend the project to other districts across the territory, achieving the goal of promoting partnership among the welfare sector, business corporations and the Government to help the disadvantaged. The Social Welfare Department is inviting a new round of applications for the PFD. Its Regular Portion has so far approved grants of over $437 million for 923 welfare projects covering more than 1 million disadvantaged persons, while its Dedicated Portion has approved about $180 million in grants for 239 after-school learning and support projects benefiting more than 100 000 primary and secondary school students. Prior to the visits, Dr Law went to the SSPDC to exchange views with SSPDC members on labour and welfare issues as well as matters of local concern.
SLW expresses sorrow over passing of the Most Reverend Michael Yeung
3.1.2019

The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong, was deeply grieved today (January 3) to learn of the passing of the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong, the Most Reverend Michael Yeung. "The Most Reverend Michael Yeung devoted himself to Caritas Hong Kong, founded by the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong. Its units have long been serving those in need across different walks of life with welfare assistance and community development services, including families, children, youths, women, the elderly and persons with disabilities. Caritas is also an active organiser of volunteering and charitable activities, making contributions to the well-being of the community. He has been the Government's close ally on alleviating poverty, elderly care and supporting the disadvantaged," Dr Law said. "The Most Reverend Michael Yeung served as the Chief Executive of Caritas Hong Kong from August 2003. Before joining the Government, I had the privilege to work with him as a member of the Council and the Board of Management as well as the Chairman of the Social Work Committee of Caritas Hong Kong. His utmost care for the last, the least and the lost paved the way for the development of Caritas Hong Kong under his distinguished leadership. He made valuable contributions to the organisation, the Catholic Diocese and Hong Kong."
Transcript of remarks by SLW on "Hong Kong Poverty Situation Report 2019"
24.12.2020

Following is the transcript of remarks by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong, on the "Hong Kong Poverty Situation Report 2019" after attending a radio programme this morning (December 24): Reporter: One English question. So, you said people should not pay too much attention to the record-high number of 1.49 million people in poverty. Could you explain a little bit more and how do you think the Government is doing to help those people? Secretary for Labour and Welfare: The number of people living below the poverty line basically means those who have received assistance from the Government and income on their own, so that figure is basically around 640 000 people. On the other hand, the figures that represent the pre-Government intervention tell us something else. It doesn't tell us how many people are actually living below the poverty line. It tells us that if the Government does nothing at all, then how many people will be living in poverty. It also tells us the impact of the downturn of the economy, its impact on different sectors of the community. So, just looking at that particular figure is not very meaningful, but looking at what's behind those figures will be more useful, in particular in terms of evaluating government policy, no matter they are regular recurrent expenditure or whether there are some relief measures. Those figures will help us evaluate the extent of impact and the differential impact on the relief of poverty and they are more useful. I believe that the Report is a very important instrument for us to review the policy and have people reading them and giving us constructive suggestions. (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)