XN000022-1995-01-17 — Page 6

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Rehousing for illegal structure dwellers

The Government will take steps to make dwellers of illegal structures subject to Government clearance more aware of the well-established rehousing policy and their position in respect of rates payment.

The Commissioner of Rating and Valuation in consultation with relevant branches and departments will work out measures to clarify the misconception that rates payment will bestow legality to any structures.

A Government spokesman reiterated that under the present policy, no one would be made homeless as a result of clearance by the Government.

The Housing Department, Buildings Department and Home Affairs Department work closely together to register people for rehousing well before a clearance takes place.

"Depending on individual eligibility, those who have registered with the Housing Department will be offered rehousing either in a public rental estate or a Temporary Housing Area."

The spokesman pointed out that at present there are 150.000 applicants on the Public Housing Waiting List. It would not be fair or reasonable to relax the present criteria for one particular group as it would lead to longer waiting time for other applicants.

"Moreover, such a relaxation may encourage people to acquire or put up more illegal structures as a means of short-circuiting the existing allocation system which has been well accepted by the community."

With regard to the clearance in Tsuen Wan last month, families registered with the Housing Department are rehoused at the Temporary Housing Area. The spokesman urged those who had not yet registered with the Housing Department to come forward now.

He noted that the Housing Department had approached these people again recently, but they continued to decline the offer for registration.

"We fully understand their wish for immediate rehousing in the same district. However, it would not be right under the present policy nor would it be fair to other applicants if we go out of our way to satisfy their demand.