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To address the longer term problem, a second consultancy study was carried out in 1995. A series of further measures including, for example, the paving of noise reduction surface layer, erection of noise barriers, noise canopies and noise enclosures at certain location were examined by the consultants. Their report is nearing completion.

Since 1992, all public projects have been required to carry out Environmental Impact Assessments to ensure that potential environmental problems, including noise nuisance, are identified and that comprehensive prevention and mitigation measures are implemented. The Environmental Impact Assessment Bill, which was gazetted on 19 January 1996, will make such arrangements statutory and provide for the enforcement of preventive measures through an Environmental Permit.

Mental patients' right under Patients' Charter

Following is a question by the Hon Elizabeth Wong and a written reply by the Secretary for Health and Welfare, Mrs Katherine Fok, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Question:

Will the Government inform this Council whether mental patients have the same rights as any other patients under the Patients' Charter; if so, what rights under the Patients' Charter do mental patients have; if not, why not?

Reply:

The Patients' Charter promulgated by the Hospital Authority makes no distinction between different types of patients. All patients of Hong Kong's public hospitals are entitled to the rights as set out in the Patients' Charter, and mental patients are no different.