The hong kong government has announced its intention to pursue compensation from contractors responsible for the installation of faulty lifts at Queen Mary Hospital’s new clinical block. This development comes as a significant setback to the hospital’s operations and has sparked a comprehensive review of the project’s supervision.
The new clinical block, which cost HK$13.5 billion (US$1.7 billion), was expected to enhance the hospital’s capacity significantly. However, the discovery of serious defects in 24 out of the 28 lifts has delayed the full commissioning of the facility by up to a year. This delay has prevented medical departments from moving into the new block, although some services like the blood bank and restaurants remain operational.
Government’s Stance on Compensation
Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn Hon-ho stated on Tuesday that the main contractor, a joint venture by Paul Y-Able, and the lift subcontractor, Anlev Elex Elevator, would be required to cover all costs of remedial work. This measure ensures that public expenditure on the project will not increase. Linn emphasized that the relevant works departments will reserve the right to pursue claims for compensation in accordance with the contract.
Review of Project Supervision
A spokesman for the Development Bureau (DEVB) expressed concern over the lift failures and requested the Architectural Services Department (ArchSD) and the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) to submit reports. This review aims to comprehensively assess the acceptance and supervision work undertaken by these departments for the project. The DEVB has prioritized the completion of rectification and follow-up works to minimize project delays.
The review process includes a thorough examination of various lift components, such as electronic devices, connections, and shaft conditions, as well as the workmanship of construction and installation. The goal is to identify the root causes affecting the stable operation of the lifts and rectify them. The relevant works are being carried out at full speed, with completion expected within the fourth quarter of this year.
Comprehensive Review and Future Improvements
The spokesman noted that the DEVB considers this an appropriate time to launch a comprehensive review of the supervisory work of the relevant departments. This review seeks to examine areas for improvement and explore enhancements to the supervision mechanism for similar projects. The DEVB has requested both departments to submit reports, aiming to complete the review and propose subsequent arrangements by October.
In a separate development, the third batch of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) young public officers, recommended by the Central Government of the People’s Republic of China, will be taking up positions in the United Nations (UN). The Launch Ceremony was held at the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the HKSAR (OCMFA) on September 8.
With the support of the Central People’s Government and the assistance of the OCMFA, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) recommended 16 young public officers to participate in the UN Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Programme in the current round. This marks a record high and reflects the nation’s recognition of the capabilities of the HKSAR’s civil servants. The officers come from various departments and will be working in the UN Headquarters and offices in Geneva, Switzerland; Vienna, Austria; and Nairobi, Kenya, for two-year tenures.
Chief Executive John Lee addressed the Launch Ceremony, emphasizing the importance of the HKSAR’s alignment with national strategies and contribution to He encouraged the officers to serve as pioneers in the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and as a driving force in promoting the high-quality development of the HKSAR. Lee also expressed his hope that the officers would build on the achievements of the preceding batches and tell authentic and compelling stories of Hong Kong on the international stage.
