The commission to alleviate poverty as announced by the Chief Executive in his 2005 Policy Address must reach a consensus on the definition of poverty and study how to tackle the problem using social resources, Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food Dr York Chow says.
Speaking on radio talkshows this morning, Dr Chow said the commission should deal with the diverse views of the definition of poverty, and consider whether or not to set a poverty line.
But he said all along the Government has not set a poverty line, though the criteria for receiving comprehensive social security assistance is set at a monthly average income of $2,534 per person.
Dr Chow said it is not in the best interest of needy families to set a definite poverty line as their needs are different, while the present practice of providing a safety net in addition to the CSSA can better cater to a family's specific needs.
But he reiterated the CSSA mechanism should strike a balance between proving basic needs and reliance on government.
Help needy children from birth
Regarding other countries' practice of issuing coupons instead of money to needy people, Dr Chow said it is not feasible in Hong Kong as it would incur a heavy administration cost.
Turning to measures on reducing inter-generational poverty, Dr Chow said expert views are that service to needy children should be provided as early as possible so as to enable them to face the future with confidence.
The Head Start Programme on Child Development for children under five will be launched in four local communities first, and be extended in phases to other communities later.
Subvention discussions to take place with NGOs
He said $75 million has been set aside for the Education & Manpower Bureau to arrange extra-curricular activities with schools and youth organisations so that individual students' potential can be developed.
On welfare funding, Dr Chow said discussions with non-governmental organisations will be held in the coming months on a new subvention mechanism.
He understood the difficulties NGOs encountered after implementing the lump-sum grants, leading to new recruits having to take salary cuts. It is not a healthy development and the Social Welfare Department will get a better understanding of individual NGOs in due course.
Report on healthcare financing due by year end
On healthcare financing, Dr Chow said he will head up a new consultation framework to be set up this quarter to study the issue.
He expected a report outlining future modes of healthcare and financing options will be ready by year end for public consultation. After a consensus is reached, an implementation timetable will be worked out.
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