Press Releases
Provision of concessionary public transport fares for persons with disabilities
It is Government��s policy to encourage and facilitate the full integration of
persons with disabilities (PWDs) into the society through participation in
social activities, a Government spokesman said today (April 4).
The Administration provides point-to-point Rehabus service to meet PWDs�� basic
transport needs. In addition, the Administration is in active pursuance of
introducing accessible taxis for wheelchair users. In terms of financial
assistance, Disability Allowance (DA) and Comprehensive Social Security
Assistance (CSSA) are provided to PWDs.
As regards public transport facilities, the Environment, Transport and Works
Bureau and the Transport Department actively encourage public transport
operators to improve the accessibility of their facilities and to provide
concessionary fares for PWDs, having regard to their financial position and
operating environment.
"When considering fare concession schemes for any particular groups of PWDs, it
is necessary to consider whether such schemes would discriminate against other
PWDs under the Disability Discrimination Ordinance (DDO).
"We have sought legal advice on the Subcommittee��s proposal to offer fare
concession in the first instance to recipients of DA and CSSA with 100% loss of
earning capacity from various sources, including the Equal Opportunities
Commission (EOC), the Department of Justice (DoJ) and the Legal Service Division
of the Legislative Council Secretariat. All consider that the offer of fare
concession to a particular group of PWDs might expose us to risks of legal
challenge by excluded PWDs.
"The Rehabilitation Advisory Committee (RAC) noted circumstances of the case and
proposed to offer concession to PWDs who require company of carer for travelling
on public transport, as it would likely meet the 'special measures' provision of
Section 50 of the DDO for a defence, and that this option is less likely to
contravene the DDO. RAC considered it a more acceptable option for public
transport operators," the spokesman said.
Representatives of PWD groups, EOC, DoJ and the Administration met with the
Legislative Council Subcommittee this afternoon for further discussion on the
matter. At the meeting, the Subcommittee and representatives of PWD groups
strongly requested the offer of fare concession to recipients of DA and CSSA
with 100% loss of earning capacity in the first instance.
The Subcommittee also requested the Administration to consider legislative
amendments to avoid possible legal challenges that may arise.
"The Administration agrees to consider carefully the suggestion for amendments
to the respective legislation. We shall work closely with the EOC to ensure that
any amendments, if to be made, will not affect the protection provided to PWDs
under the DDO," the spokesman added.
Ends/Tuesday, April 4, 2006
Issued at HKT 19:31
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