Development Authority to Recruit Around 90 Staff: Linn Bernadette

The Hong Kong government established the Building Maintenance Support and Services Council in the wake of the Wang Fuk Court fire last year, aiming to assist homeowners with building maintenance and renovation works. Secretary for Development Linn Bernadette said the new hires will include professionals, technicians, and support and administrative personnel. The council is set to be established this year, with staff to join in phases, aiming to be fully in place by mid-next year.

Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn announced the Building Maintenance Support and Services Council would recruit around 90 people initially. This new body, established in response to the Wang Fuk Court fire, is set to operate by the year's end, providing a service for homeowners' building maintenance and renovation works. Linn stated the recruitment aims to have all hires onboard in phases, completing the process by the middle of next year.

The development minister clarified that the two-envelope approach could be used for more complex projects without likely increasing costs. This method separates the technical assessment from the price evaluation to ensure quality remains intact. Linn also mentioned the possibility of implementing a demerit points system and enhancing penalties, along with spot checks.

Separately, Linn reported that over 1,000 training applications had been approved under the Construction Innovation and Technology Fund, benefiting more than 400 companies and organizations with a total funding of HK$50 million. Over the past three years, more than 4,500 people have enrolled in courses provided by the Construction Industry Council. Linn stressed the importance of continuing local training and technological advancements to boost overall construction productivity.