XN000022-1996-10-07 — Page 8

7 -

BSA operators who have any queries are welcome to contact OLA on 2881 7746 on building safety requirements and 2881 7275 on fire safety requirements.

The Bedspace Apartments Ordinance, enacted in 1994 to provide for a licensing scheme to regulate the fire and building safety and sanitation of BSAs, will be fully implemented on July 1, 1998.

Meanwhile, an information leaflet listing the telephone numbers of HAD, Social Welfare Department, Housing Department, Rating and Valuation Department and the Agency for Volunteer Service - all tasked with assisting BSA tenants, will be distributed to them.

"BSA tenants are strongly advised to seek advice and assistance from the authorities when they encounter problems concerning their BSAs and accommodation arrangements," the spokesman said.

The leaflet, produced by HAD, also explains the rehousing arrangements for BSA tenants who might be affected as a result of the implementation of the ordinance.

The spokesman said tenants aged below 60 can apply for a place in HAD's singleton hostels located in Yau Ma Tei, Mong Kok, Tai Kok Tsui, Sham Shui Po, Ngau Tau Kok, Western, Shau Kei Wan and Wan Chai.

"Tenants aged 60 and above with social and medical difficulties, if found eligible, will be offered compassionate rehousing or admission to welfare institutions or homes for the elderly," he said.

"Other than these, the tenants can also apply for single person public flats as the Government has established a waiting list for single persons over the age of 18 to apply for public flats since 1985."

Furthermore, the leaflet reminds BSA tenants of their rights of security of tenure under the Landlord and Tenant (Consolidation) Ordinance.

Under the ordinance, any person who unlawfully deprives a tenant or sub- tenant of occupation of any premises commits an offence and is liable to a maximum fine of $500,000 and 12 months' imprisonment.

BSA tenants are advised to contact the Police immediately in case of unlawful eviction or harassment.

End