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Relevant Factors
3.
After the announcement of the liberalisation of closed centre policy in June, the Government has been considering a number of factors prior to implementing this policy. It is important that the message of our new policy reached Vietnam to deter the outflow of Vietnamese boat people. With increased publicity measures and the first round of talks on repatriation, this has been possible. The rate of arrival has decreased as follows:-
July
August
Monthly Total
5,562
Daily Average
179
2.375
September
274
34
(till 9.9.33)
!
Although it could be argued that the liberalisation process should be delayed further, other factors have come into play.
The overcrowded conditions at Sham Shui Po and San Yick have to be improved in order to avoid potential health and safety hazards. The absence of space within these centres have limited the provision of social services including those activities, e.g. vocational training which are necessary to enhance their chance for resettlement overseas. At this juncture, the UNHCR have made specific proposals on using their resources to provide schooling, job placement and medical services etc. for the refugees. Against all these factors, the Government has decided to proceed with the liberalisation plan, to be implemented in phases. In order to ensure that the interests of the local residents are fully taken into account in the process of implementation, special steering groups will be set up in each of the closed centres, as necessary, comprising representatives from relevant departments, UNHCR, voluntary agencies, and District Boards concerned.
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