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Transformation is the stuff of Hong Kong's daily life. Here this centuries-old anchorage, these valleys settled in the early days of the Ching dynasty, have in their tum been transformed not into something better or worse, but into something completely new, and something essential to the life of Hong Kong.
It is for us to see that the reservoir and its surroundings remain beautiful as well as efficient, and are cared for and protected as the Lees, the Chows, the Mans and the other original settlers cared for their villages, fields and boats.
We wish their descendants prosperity and continuing happiness
in the estate built for them in Sai Kung.
This project exhausts the major natural water potential of Hong Kong. The Kwang tung authorities have agreed to increase their supply by 30 per cent by 1981/82 and we are busy constructing works to take this increased supply.
The agreement for the increase will be signed over the next couple of days in Canton. The Kwangtung authorities have also agreed to consider what they can do to meet our long-term requirements. For this we are most grateful.
For our part we are completing a study of what additional minor catchment schemes might be practical. In a year or two we should therefore be able to see our way more clearly. Meanwhile if local rain fails, last winter proved how useful the desalter can be.
In conclusion I would like to congratulate all those who have worked on this project.
Though they are too numerous to mention I would lie to say a special word to the Italians at what I am sure will be eventually known as Vianini village. They have been most welcome guests and have left a great monument behind them.
I have now great pleasure in declaring this scheme open.
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