Two unions seek police nod for worker rallies

Stacy Shi

At least two rallies with less than 500 participants each are being planned to mark Labor Day.

Two former officials from the disbanded Hong Kong Confederation of Trade Unions said they have applied - on individual capacities - to police for a letter of no objection to host a rally.

Former chairman Joe Wong Nai-yuen and ex-committee member Denny To Chun-ho said they submitted the applications.

The rally is planned to start at 3pm on May 1, with participants departing from Victoria Park and marching to the government offices in Central.

Speaking on radio yesterday, Wong said Labor Day processions are a tradition in Hong Kong. He estimated that less than 500 people will participate in the rally and is optimistic about the outcome of the application.

Wong said authorities are capable of "maintaining an orderly public event for only 500 people."

But he said further discussions are needed if police will require participants to wear numbered tags, designated clothing or identification. Measures to prevent violent people from hijacking the event are not being considered as of now, Wong added.

The pro-establishment Federation of Hong Kong and Kowloon Labor Unions has also applied to host a rally of 200 to 500 participants on April 29 at Prince Edward and Mong Kok.

Secretary Chau Siu-chung said the federation will require participants to wear designated clothing and use pickets to maintain order.

Chau said that while he understands the requirements, he hopes the limitations can be eased.

As for the anti-mask law, Chau said he would suggest people who are unwell to not join the rally. But he believes it is a reasonable excuse for wearing a mask.

Police said they are considering the applications and are conducting risk assessments on the purpose of the event, number of participants, past experience and the current situation.

stacy.shi@singtaonewscorp.com