Page 283 of 606
PROVISIONAL URBAN COUNCIL
277
The development of sports is at present quite good in Hong Kong. The Chinese (Hong Kong) Amateur Sports Federation and Olympic Committee has acknowledged the full support of the Municipal Councils which is crucial to its development. If Hong Kong is to be developed into a venue for large scale recreational activities and international sports competitions, this Council is duty bound to assist. We must try to stage more activities on local venues and vow stronger support to the staging of such activities. For example, we should relax the principle of balance of profit and loss and grant special concessions.
Apart from making full use of the Council's venues to promote tourism, the motion itself can bring farther and wider effects for Hong Kong:
1.
2.
3.
By drawing more mega international recreation and sports events to Hong Kong, we can arouse knowledge, interest and participation of the public. We can thereby bring sports to the people and attract more young athletes to participate. By so doing, we can develop and cultivate more elite athletes;
Promote appreciative sports as a way to healthier body and mind. While watching the games in motion, one learns about the strategies of sports competition. Under the present economic downturn, this offers spiritual support for the people and helps to enhance social morale;
Present a new image of Hong Kong to the international ring. We are not only a leading financial centre, we are also a metropolis that emphasises health. From this, we will one day go on to become the recreation centre of our region. Maybe one day, we can host the Asian Games or even the Olympic Games.
Mr. Chairman, by taking the initiative to assist in organising mega international recreational and sports activities and competitions, we can make full use of our venues and promote tourism and economic development. In the long run, we are creating a new sports culture for Hong Kong and encouraging the public to pursue a healthier living. This is in line with the Healthy Living Campaign promoted by the Chief Executive.
With the above remarks, I support the motion.
Ms. GRACE AU YUK-HAR (in Cantonese): Mr. Chairman, concerning Mr. Ronnie Wong's motion today, I am sure no one or fellow Members will, under the present gloomy economic condition, vote against any proposal to build our economy and enhance our international image.
By reading the wording of the motion, I note that it mentions the Council helps promote the development of the local tourist industry and holds major international recreation and sports projects that attract overseas audience to Hong Kong.
Page 282 offe
Page 283 of 606
Page 283 of 606