XN000022-1995-10-19 — Page 25

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"In the longer term, the Secretary for Planning, Environment and Lands has a comprehensive programme of river training projects at a cost of some $5 billion, some of which are already underway."

Mrs Lau said HAD, in consultation with rural leaders and the local population, would continue to prioritize RPIS Minor Works projects to meet urgent local needs as far as possible. Flood relief measures will be accorded high priority within the RPIS programme.

However, she stressed that ultimately, only the major infrastructural projects to fully train these rivers would bring long-term, lasting relief.

Endorsed by the Executive Council in March 1989, the RPIS is divided into two segments, one covering major works projects and the other minor ones.

Mrs Lau pointed out that the Administration has earmarked $1.6 billion for a 10-year Minor Works programme of infrastructural development and environmental improvement in rural areas in the New Territories.

To better manage the Strategy, HAD assumed overall responsibility for the Minor Works programme in November 1994 and introduced a two-tier administrative structure: the RPIS Minor Works Steering Committee and nine District Working Groups. Such an arrangement has enhanced the formulation of the programme and facilitated consultation with rural residents, New Territories District Boards, Heung Yee Kuk and Rural Committees.

Mrs Lau said that the Tak Yuet Lau minor works project is a typical example of co-operation between the authorities and the local community. Constructed at a cost of about $3 million, the flood shelter will provide temporary accommodation for 130 villagers.

Under HAD's RPIS Minor Works programme, $50 million worth of projects were constructed in 1994-95, in line with our projections. For 1995-96, the aim is to construct $150 million worth of projects. Good progress is being made in constructing these projects.

End/Thursday, October 19, 1995