The government pledged to investigate the cause of the Tai Po fire rigorously and strictly follow up on accountability to prevent such disasters from recurring, said Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu during the Constitution Day seminar.
The annual seminar takes place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on Thursday, beginning with a minute's silence to pay respects to the victims of the five-alarm blaze at Wang Fuk Court last week.
In light of the tragedy, the applause segment was canceled, and attendees were reminded not to applaud after each guest speech.
Lee said the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation has entered an “irreversible historical process”, stressing that Hong Kong must play three crucial roles: uphold the Constitution and the Basic Law, integrate with and serve the nation’s development and act as a bridge for cultural exchange between China and the world.
He noted that the fire has reinforced his belief that the spirit of the Constitution is in ensuring the welfare of the people. The ultimate goal of law is “to provide everyone with a warm life under its protection.”
“We will transform the painful lessons from this incident into concrete measures to enhance safety and reform our systems,” he said.
Lee hoped the voters would cast their ballots in the Legislative Council election on Sunday to choose representatives who would work together with the government to promote post-disaster recovery and reform.
He added that the independent committee, chaired by a judge and formed in response to the tragic fire, will consist of experienced professionals. It will have the authority to request assistance from government departments with investigative powers.
This will allow an efficient and comprehensive review of the incident, to complete recommendations and submit a report promptly, Lee said.
