Press Releases

Financial assistance for family members of four heroes

The Government announced today (May 26) that financial assistance would be provided under a scheme to family members of the three health care workers who died of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) contracted at work, and the Senior Police Inspector who drowned in a flood.

"All four have sacrificed their lives to save others. The high levels of professionalism displayed, as well as their selfless devotion to the Hong Kong community, command our greatest respect. In the case of the three health care workers, this was in the face of the unknown threat of a new disease. We deeply grieve at the loss of these dedicated individuals," said Dr Yeoh Eng-kiong, the Chairperson of the Committee on Financial Assistance for Family Members of those who Sacrifice their Lives to Save Others.

"The Scheme represents the Government's recognition of the gallant acts and in a practical sense, our respect for the heroism they have displayed in serving the people of Hong Kong.

"We will spare no effort in addressing the needs of the bereaved families, and we sincerely hope that the assistance provided under the Scheme, can provide them with some relief at this difficult time," added Dr Yeoh.

The Committee considered the four cases at today's meeting. In recognition of their gallant acts, the Committee supported providing financial assistance to the families of the deceased. Financial assistance of around $3 million will be available in each case.

The four cases that have been considered by the Committee are:

(a) Mr Lau Wing-kai, a Registered Nurse who worked in the Tuen Mun Hospital. He died on April 26, 2003 of SARS contracted at work;

(b) Mr Leung Bo-ming, a Senior Police Inspector who drowned on May 5, 2003.

(c) Dr Tse Yuen-man, a Medical Officer who worked in the Tuen Mun Hospital. She died on May 13, 2003 of SARS contracted at work;

(d) Ms Tang Heung-may, a health care assistant, who died on May 15, 2003 of SARS contracted at the United Christian Hospital; and

The Scheme was set up in January 2002 to provide financial assistance to family members of those, who sacrifice their lives to save or protect others. A Committee chaired by the Secretary for Health, Welfare and Food and comprising four non-official members, was set up to serve as the approving authority for the Scheme.

Under the Scheme, financial assistance will be disbursed independent of any other assistance or compensation the family might receive in relation to the death of the deceased. Payment will be funded from the Government's General Revenue. This is the first time funds have been approved under the Scheme to the surviving family members.

End/Monday, May 26, 2003
NNNN