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(b) In general, our policy requires that illegal immigrants, unless there are exceptional humanitarian or compassionate grounds, be repatriated to their country of origin at the earliest opportunity. Exceptions are made in respect of certain types of illegal entrants, e.g. those found in workplaces, or those who committed other crimes, where the illegal entrants are repatriated to their country of origin after they have served whatever sentences imposed by the courts. In the case of illegal entrants of Vietnamese origin, we have undertaken as part of the Comprehensive Plan of Action to examine and determine their refugee status in accordance with UNHCR's criteria (ie. whether they have a well-founded fear of persecution). Those who are determined to be non-refugees are repatriated to Vietnam as soon as they are accepted for return by the Vietnamese Government and when appropriate arrangements can be made for their repatriation. As regards those who are screened in as refugees, the UNHCR arranges for their resettlement elsewhere.
(c) Repatriation of illegal immigrants depends not only on the powers available under the Immigration Ordinance, but also on the agreement of the receiving country or region to accept back persons believed to be its citizens. Normally, when the receiving country is able to verify the identity of the illegal immigrant, repatriation can then be effected. In the case of illegal immigrants from China, we have an arrangement with China to immediately repatriate illegal immigrants arrested in Hong Kong without any verification of the illegal immigrants' identity by China.
End
Marine traffic safety
Following is a question by the Hon Miriam Lau and a reply by the Secretary for Transport, Mr Haider Barma, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
A number of reclamation projects are now in progress and this has resulted in the narrowing of the fairways in the harbour. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(a) of the number of traffic accidents which have occurred in the territory's waters over the past three years, and the number of such accidents which have resulted in injury and death; and