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To carry out Designated Projects without a Permit, or not in accordance with the conditions on the Permit would be liable to a maximum fine of $5 million and a custodial sentence.
It was expected the bill would be introduced to the Legislative Council in late 1995.
Members were also briefed on the Buildings (Amendment) (No.2) Bill 1995 which was introduced to the Legislative Council yesterday (Wednesday). The bill seeks to introduce new measures to ensure safety on construction and demolition sites.
The bill also provides for a new system of registration for contractors in two categories: general and specialist. A key requirement will be that the contractors' qualifications, experience and competence will be assessed by a statutory committee, whose membership will include representatives of the concerned industry associations and professional bodies. In addition, registration will be personal to an individual.
The Committee noted that although the professions and the industry welcomed the clearer definition of statutory duties among the parties concerned, it was concerned that amendment should be extremely well considered so as not to confuse or distort the balance of duties and responsibilities between the Authorised Person, Registered Contractor and Owner.
Noting the Director of Buildings' undertaking to consult all parties concerned on details, the Committee set up an ad hoc committee under the chairmanship of the Deputy Secretary for Planning, Environment and Lands to facilitate early dialogue.
The Committee was also briefed on the recommendations on the streamlining of the Town Planning Board procedures.
These recommendations included the setting up of committees to hear objections to Outline Zoning Plans, the provision of a legal adviser in Town Planning Board meetings, the establishment of an independent Secretariat and expansion of the Secretariat.
End/Thursday, June 1, 1995