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Following is the transcript (English portion) of a media session by the Secretary for Economic Development and Labour, Mr Stephen Ip, after attending a radio programme today (June 19):
Reporter: Turning to the labour dispute (involving the bus companies), do you think the problem can be resolved before the industrial action escalates? Do you think the drivers should call off their industrial action in the interest of the public?
Secretary for Economic Development and Labour: The most important thing is for both the employees and the employers to discuss the issue and understand each other's position. The Labour Department is playing the role of the go-between and we are working behind the scene to bring the two sides together. I understand that in the coming two days, there will be meetings between the management and the labour side. I hope that both sides will sit round the table and try to resolve the problem.
Reporter: Referring to the opening date of the Ngong Ping 360, would you be comfortable that it be postponed?
Secretary for Economic Development and Labour: The most important factor is public safety. We have to ensure that the system is safe. This is the most important. At the moment both the cable car company and the EMSD are trying to find out the problem. We need to make sure that all problems are resolved. Then we will open only when we are ready.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript)
Ends/Monday, June 19, 2006
Issued at HKT 16:06
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