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The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, opened the first enhanced elderly centre under a $900 million Improvement Programme of Elderly Centres (IPEC) today (February 22). He also announced that the third phase of the Public Transport Fare Concession Scheme for the Elderly and Eligible Persons with Disabilities (the $2 Scheme) will be rolled out on March 3.
"The twin initiatives will create a positive synergy effect in further promoting active ageing," Mr Cheung stressed.
Addressing the opening ceremony of the Bliss District Elderly Community Centre of the Hong Kong Christian Service in Choi Fook Estate, Kwun Tong, Mr Cheung said, "With an ageing population in Hong Kong, the needs of the elderly have become diversified too. Many senior citizens nowadays are more energetic and have developed a wider range of interests. They would expect to see modernised elderly centres equipped with new facilities such as computers and fitness equipment. These would enable them to bridge the digital divide and pursue continuous learning, exercise more to stay fit, or take part in voluntary work. The ultimate goal is to promote active ageing."
Mr Cheung added, "The Government announced in the Budget last year the allocation of $900 million from the Lotteries Fund to launch the IPEC in phases over six years to enhance the physical setting and facilities of all elderly centres over the territory. A total of 237 centres are participating in the programme now."
The IPEC was rolled out in April last year. As at January 2013, the Lotteries Fund Advisory Committee has approved funding for 31 elderly centres where improvement works have commenced in phases.
Participating elderly centres can make use of the grants to improve facilities such as air-conditioning, computer systems and health/gymnastics equipment to promote elderly persons' life-long learning and regular exercise. The elderly centres may also enhance their barrier-free facilities, layout and design so as to provide a safer environment. More than 200,000 centre users will benefit.
To supplement the programme, the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust has donated $110 million to launch the Jockey Club Elderly Facilities Modernisation Scheme, enabling participating elderly centres to purchase non-standard furniture and equipment. There are currently 192 elderly centres participating in both the IPEC and the Modernisation Scheme.
Mr Cheung noted that, apart from improving facilities in elderly centres, the Government is committed to promoting active ageing by encouraging the elderly to participate in community activities.
Mr Cheung announced at the opening ceremony that the third phase of the $2 Scheme will be launched on March 3, extending the concession to New Lantao Bus franchised routes and designated ferry services.
"Over 980,000 elderly people and 130,000 eligible persons with disabilities will benefit from the $2 Scheme. Since its implementation on the Mass Transit Railway and franchised buses last year, the daily passenger trips of beneficiaries have already exceeded 600,000," Mr Cheung said.
Ends/Friday, February 22, 2013
Issued at HKT 11:32
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