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10.
The Honourable Lee Cheuk-yan referred to demand. In order to increase the supply of flats suitable for allocation to elderly people, we are building on new urban sites, infield sites and on low rise structures. A total of about 23,500 new units will be allocated for elderly people in the coming four years in addition to refurbished units. We will of course review future demand and provision.
We have previously considered the idea of building large housing estates dedicated entirely to the elderly, as proposed by the Honourable Lee Cheuk-yan. Our conclusion was that many elderly people would probably feel stigmatised by such a scheme. Furthermore, large areas of inexpensive land would only be likely to be available in remote areas. We would not wish to give the impression of exile or the feeling that elderly people should be physically separated from the rest of the community. On the contrary, we would do our best to encourage elderly people to lead an independent and dignified life as part of the community, and not in isolation.
Services for the elderly in public rental housing estates
Turning now to services for the elderly in public housing estates I would like to point out that there are services tailored to meet their needs. For example, the Housing Authority has introduced the Estate Liaison Officer Scheme under which staff are deployed to promote mutual help and foster community care among elderly tenants. Increase provision of such officers is being planned as already been suggested by some Honourable Members. Emergency alarm systems have gradually been installed in flats for single elderly tenants with a monitoring service being provided by estate office staff. I can confirm that consideration is now being given to implementing the concept of contracting out the management of flats for the elderly to welfare agencies, whose workers are well trained to look after the personal and social needs of elderly people.
My colleague the Secretary for Health and Welfare has asked me to point out that there are 160 social centres and 24 multi-service centres for the elderly. providing important community support for all elderly persons in the territory, including those living in public housing estates. A major expansion of centres and services is being planned for the next two years. Elderly people who need extra help can also receive telephone counselling through the Social Welfare Department's Hotline Service. Later this year, the Social Welfare Department will embark on a new programme, entitled "Older Volunteers Programme", which will mobilise elderly people to reach out to their peers in the neighbourhood, and to help in identifying those in special need.
Indeed when planning new housing estates, Mr President, the Housing Authority is very conscious of the need to consult other Government departments to ensure that there is adequate provision of community facilities and welfare services. which also satisfy the social and emotional needs of elderly people.