The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) welcomes the Government’s special scheme to install some 230 lifts in various public areas to supplement the present walkways, which will help people with disabilities and the elderly to get around town easier.

Mr. LAM Woon-kwong, Chairperson of the EOC, said, “The EOC supports the Government’s initiatives to speed up the installation of barrier-free access in public places. This lift installation programme will benefit a wide spectrum of people, from wheelchair-users to parents with baby strollers.”

“We are glad that the Government has moved away from the mindset of doing the minimum and recognized the importance of universal access. There is higher public expectation and a growing demand for a more sustainable and accessible built environment in which people with diverse needs and lifestyles can be satisfied,” Mr. LAM said.

Mr. Lam hopes to see more government-led initiatives to enhance accessibility in Hong Kong’s built environment and raise local awareness about the impact and importance of accessible architecture. “A vision of ensuring equal access to our city's amenities for all residents, regardless of their age and physical conditions, should be the ultimate goal of policy makers and city planners,” added Mr. LAM.
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For media enquiries, please contact Ms. Mariana LAW at 2106-2226.

Equal Opportunities Commission
21 August 2012