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There were 93 applications for comprehensive social security assistance from children born in Hong Kong to Mainland parents who are not Hong Kong residents since August 2006, Secretary for Environment, Transport & Works Dr Sarah Liao says.
Dr Liao told lawmakers today the Social Welfare Department started to collate data on new CSSA applications from children born in Hong Kong to Mainland parents who are not Hong Kong residents in August 2006. Up to the end of March, there were 93 cases, involving 102 recipients aged from two months to 17 years.
In response to a lawmaker's question, Dr Liao said Mainland residents cannot apply for one-way exit permits on the grounds they must take care of children in Hong Kong since the Mainland authority offers no specified permit quota for this specific group.
She pointed out the department has provided clear operational guidelines for staff, and there is a standing requirement that all CSSA applications be made on a household basis - including those from children born in Hong Kong to Mainland parents.
She stressed the Government has been concerned about such welfare applications, but no conclusion has yet been reached on their long-term impact on the social welfare system.
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