Policy blowback shows why Hong Kong lawmakers must play a bigger role

The dust has settled on the election of the Legislative Council president, and committees and panels have settled into the new Legco. Most, it seems, are ready to hit the ground running. First on the agenda: dealing with the aftermath of the Tai Po fire.

The more immediate matters involve the rebuilding of a community that has lost so much. Equally pressing are the long-standing issues laid bare by the tragic fire that demand the government fix the entire building sector. Consultations with displaced families on rehousing options are under way.

The government has given Wang Fuk Court homeowners nine rehousing plans to consider. The quickest option would allow move-in by September. The options include Home Ownership Scheme housing developments, all outside the Tai Po district. Redevelopment was also offered but this is an option that would take the longest time – 2035 at the earliest.

Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong Wai-lun, who chairs a government task force on the emergency resettlement, drew flak for calling the redevelopment option “not practical” despite the wishes of some residents to stay within the community and be rehoused at the same site.