HONG KONG, May 5 – Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu convened a high-level briefing today, affirming the government’s commitment to immediate mental health support for victims of the recent deadly fire in Tai Po’s Wang Fuk Court and pledging significant legislative reform. Flanked by key cabinet members and health officials at the Leung Shing Lee Community Centre in Yau Ma Tei, Mr. Lee delivered an update on the recovery efforts while simultaneously issuing a stern warning against those attempting to exploit the tragedy for social unrest or financial gain.
The Tai Po blaze, which injured scores of residents, has prompted an urgent government response focusing on holistic recovery. Mr. Lee announced that Dr. Lam Ching-choi, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Mental Health, has been tasked with coordinating support efforts across the Labour and Welfare Bureau, Education Bureau, and Health Bureau. These services are specifically targeting fire victims, their families, nearby residents, students, and educators impacted by the psychological trauma.
In an effort to swiftly assess emotional needs, Mr. Lee visited the 24-hour “18111 Emotional Support Hotline,” operated by a non-governmental organization, where he met with frontline counselors. He emphasized the necessity of providing immediate psychological support to help afflicted residents navigate the crisis.
Combating Exploitation and Disinformation
While focusing on aid, the Chief Executive strongly condemned individuals he accused of attempting to profit from the disaster, either financially or politically. Mr. Lee warned that some individuals were seeking to “exploit the tragedy,” citing instances of people allegedly feigning volunteer status or posing as victims to fraudulently claim aid.
Casting a critical eye on disruptive elements, Mr. Lee drew parallels between current disinformation campaigns and tactics used during the “black violence” period of 2019. He alleged that malign actors are disseminating false information, often using fabricated narratives about individual emergency responders or residents, with the goal of causing social division and chaos. He assured the public that the government would take decisive action against those attempting to interfere with the recovery process.
Health and Social Services Update
Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han provided an update on the support initiatives. He confirmed that 79 people injured in the fire have been released from critical condition, with 49 already discharged from hospitals. Six individuals remain in serious condition, and 24 are listed as stable.
The government’s “One Household, One Social Worker” program has seen overwhelming participation. As of 4 p.m. this afternoon, over 1,900 affected households had registered for the service, with only a dozen left to enroll. Mr. Sun reassured residents that this personalized support commitment is indefinite.
Call for Legislative Reform
Beyond immediate aid, Mr. Lee announced a push for systemic change. He stated that the government plans to collaborate closely with the Legislative Council (LegCo) to introduce motions during its inaugural session focusing on long-term accommodation, disaster relief, and institutional reform to close regulatory loopholes exposed by the tragedy.
Specifically addressing widespread public concern over fire safety, Mr. Sun indicated a willingness to mandate complete smoking bans at construction sites. While current regulations only declare a site smoke-free if fire risk is determined by inspections, Mr. Sun noted the strong public outcry for a universal ban. He committed to proposing legislative amendments to the new LegCo, assuming the members support the measure.
Mr. Lee concluded by urging citizens to participate in the upcoming LegCo elections, encouraging them to elect candidates who would support these key reforms, champion disaster victims, and unite the community in moving forward.
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