The Independent Committee in relation to the Wang Fuk Court fire is expected to commence its hearings in mid-March, according to the exclusive report by Sing Tao Daily -- The Standard's sister publication.
It is understood that the directions hearing will begin in February, focusing on two main areas -- investigation of the causes of the fire and making recommendations, as well as examining suspected bid-rigging corruption.
The Committee, which was established by Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu last December, is chaired by Justice David Lok Kai-hong, with ex-lawmaker Chan Kin-por and former chairman of MTR Corporation Rex Auyeung Pak-kuen appointed as members.
Sources also indicated that the Committee has hired the law firm Lo & Lo to conduct an independent investigation. The firm has previously handled investigations into incidents such as the lead in Hong Kong's drinking water in 2015 and the Lamma Island ferry collision in 2012.
The Committee has also appointed five individuals as representative barristers.
According to sources, the investigation involves various government departments and statutory bodies, primarily including the Buildings Department, the Fire Services Department, the Urban Renewal Authority, and the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau, as well as the relevant property management company, consulting firms, and maintenance companies.
Additionally, the police, the Independent Commission Against Corruption, and the Competition Commission will also send witnesses to testify in court.
The Independent Committee formally commenced its operations in late December last year and aims to complete its work within nine months of starting.
