In a press released published on 12 November 2024, the EOC expressed concerns over a recent incident in which a wheelchair user was denied entry into a restaurant.

EOC Chairperson Ms Linda LAM Mei-sau said, “The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities affirms that people with disabilities should enjoy equal opportunities to participate fully in all aspects of society and live independently, which includes being able to access dining services independently. The Convention is implemented in Hong Kong through the Disability Discrimination Ordinance (DDO). If a restaurant denies entry to a wheelchair user without reasonable justification, it could amount to unlawful discrimination under the DDO. Under the DDO, employees are personally liable for their discriminatory acts. Employers may also be held vicariously liable for the unlawful acts committed by their employees, regardless of whether they are aware of or approve of those acts, unless they can demonstrate that they have taken reasonable steps to prevent such acts. Hence, it is important for employers to take the DDO seriously and provide appropriate training to staff members to enhance their understanding of the protections under and applications of the DDO.”

In response to the incident, the EOC is proactively communicating with the catering industry to explore ways to enhance management and frontline staff’s understanding of the DDO, and share with them best practices for providing dining services for customers with diverse needs.

• Read the press release