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concept of flea markets or similar markets in the past. I too mentioned just now the ideas of markets, arts fairs or open art bazaars with characteristics specific to Hong Kong. In fact, the success of an idea depends on human efforts and urgency. I need to stress that there is urgency in the present case. We have brought up the issue a number of times, but the Department has been slow in making any response. Since there is no response, we have to take the initiative to get things moving. I hope Members will appreciate the spirit of the motion.
A Member raised concern for the problem of heat and rain. Flea markets are mostly open ones but the ground may be carpeted. This is a matter of administration and management. As for the Home for Artists, while supporting the setting up of a flea market, hopes that the use of the venue may be free of charge, it all depends on the nature of the activities held. If they are art performances, they will of course be welcome. As for the charging of fees, it is also a matter of administration and management.
A Member recommended that the flea market be open on Sundays. The idea is that it can be held in the daytime, but if the response is good, it may also be held on Saturdays, or even seven days a week. If appropriate administrative arrangements are made, such as providing colourful lanterns, an evening flea market should also be quite attractive. Mr. Chairman, my motion is aimed at trying out the idea on the proposed site and if it turns out to be appropriate, it could be extensively promoted. As Mr. Ambrose CHEUNG mentioned, the Cultural Centre and the waterfront park are all appropriate sites. As long as a high standard is ensured for management, cleanliness, hygiene, tidiness and appearance etc, I cannot see why a representative body with a large number of venues like the Council should fail to set up a market similar to the one proposed despite the lapse of one, two or even three years. I would therefore emphasize the urgency.
Lastly, I thank Members for their speeches and support. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The question was put to the vote.
The motion was vetoed with 6 for, 10 against and one abstention. (The record of voting on Mr. Chiang Sai-cheong's motion is at Annex V.)
Chairman (in Cantonese):—Although the motion was vetoed with 6 for, 10 against and one abstention, a Member will raise the issue at the meeting of the Standing Committee next Tuesday for follow-up action. This is a very good spirit. Just now I did not speak but I wish to point out that we must exercise care in future site selection.
The last motion is moved by Ms. Ada WONG. Would Ms. WONG move the motion and speak?
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