The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) expressed great concern over the interference with the normal operations of the Kowloon Bay Health Centre.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of a community roadshow of the EOC held at Telford Plaza today (6 June 1999), Dr. Fanny CHEUNG Mui-ching, Chairperson of the Commission, said, "The Commission is very concerned about the protests against the operation of the centre. The suggestion that persons with a disability may cause harm to other people and should be segregated from the community is wrong and damaging. We want to make it clear that it is unlawful to interfere with the provision of services or facilities to persons with a disability."

Dr. Cheung continued, "The provision of health care facilities to those who need them will not pose any harm to the community. These facilities comply with the necessary medical and health standards."

Under the Disability Discrimination Ordinance (DDO), interference or prevention of the provision of services or facilities to persons with a disability constitutes unlawful discrimination.

It is also unlawful under the DDO to vilify persons with a disability by publicly inciting hatred towards, serious contempt for or severe ridicule of them.

"People who may not have a disability but are regarded as having a disability are also protected by the legislation," Dr. CHEUNG said.

The EOC has been in close contact with the Department of Health, the Community Liaison Group of the Centre, the Kwun Tong District Office, the Sau Mau Ping Police Station and the Health Centre to explain the relevant provisions of the DDO and the protections the Ordinance affords to the staff and users of the Health Centre.

"Anyone who is harassed, vilified or prevented from providing or acquiring the services or making use of the facilities can seek help from the EOC. We will investigate the complaints and provide necessary assistance," Dr. CHEUNG added.

The roadshow was the third of a series of similar events to promote equal opportunities in all 18 districts throughout the territory. It was a public education initiative of the EOC in reaching out to the community.

The opening ceremony was officiated by Dr. Fanny CHEUNG Mui-ching; Ms. CHAN Yuen-han and Mr. LEE Wah-ming, Legislative Councillors; Mr. Tsang Hing-kay, District Officer of Kwun Tong; and Mr. Cheung Wai-leung, Equal Opportunities Ambassador.

The roadshow also featured exhibitions, video presentations, quiz games and a "meeting the public" programme aimed at enhancing public understanding of equal opportunities.

Enquiry: EOC Hotline       25118211