All six gazetted beaches in Tuen Mun reopen
*******************************************

    The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) announced today (May 20) that all six gazetted beaches in Tuen Mun had been reopened to the public in phases from 12.05pm to 1pm.

    The Marine Police and Government Flying Service completed checks in the nearby waters of the six beaches in the Tuen Mun District - Golden Beach, Cafeteria New Beach, Cafeteria Old Beach, Kadoorie Beach, Castle Peak Beach and Butterfly Beach - last night and this morning, and confirmed that no shark was sighted.

    Sonar checks were conducted and no shark or suspected big fish was found inside the swimming zones enclosed by the shark prevention nets at all the six beaches.

    LCSD's shark prevention net maintenance contractor had also completed checking the nets in all six beaches and confirmed that they were in good condition.

    All the six beaches have been reopened to the public.

    LCSD¡¯s staff will remain vigilant and strengthen patrols inside the swimming zones.

    Staff of all other LCSD beaches have also enhanced vigilance. Swimmers are advised to stay inside the shark prevention nets to ensure safety.

    Based on the photos of a shark carcass brought yesterday by a man to Cafeteria Old Beach for washing, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department has identified the fish as a member of the Family Carcharhinidae. As the carcass was not available for examination, its species could not be further identified.

Ends/Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Issued at HKT 14:39

NNNN