DEVB requests review of project supervision on new Clinical Block of Queen Mary Hospital
A spokesman for the Development Bureau (DEVB) said today (September 4) that the Bureau is highly concerned about the newly installed lifts at the new Clinical Block of Queen Mary Hospital failing to function effectively. The DEVB has requested the Architectural Services Department (ArchSD) and the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) to submit reports, so as to comprehensively review the acceptance and supervision work undertaken by the two departments for the project.
The Development Bureau, Photo source: reference image
The spokesman pointed out that the relevant departments have been responsible for supervising the contractor’s work for this hospital project. Upon learning of the unsatisfactory progress of works earlier, the DEVB has accorded top priority to urging the departments to complete the rectification and follow-up works expeditiously over the past few months. This includes conducting comprehensive examination of various lift components (such as electronic devices, connections, and shaft conditions), as well as the workmanship of construction and installation, with a view to identifying the root causes that affect the stable operation of the lifts for rectification. The relevant works are being carried out at full speed to minimise project delays. Currently, various follow-up works are progressing in an orderly manner as planned and are expected to be completed within the fourth quarter of this year.
Queen Mary Hospital, Photo by Bastille Post
The spokesman said, "We consider this an appropriate time to embark on another area of work, and launch a comprehensive review of the supervisory work of the relevant departments, including the ArchSD and the EMSD, for this project. It seeks to examine whether there are areas for improvement and explore whether there is room to enhance the supervision mechanism for similar projects. We have requested both departments to submit reports, so that the DEVB can complete the review and put forward subsequent arrangements within October."
The new Clinical Block of Queen Mary Hospital, Photo source: Hospital Authority
Speech by SCST at Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra "Welcome Tarmo Reception"
Following is the speech by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, at the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra (HK Phil) "Welcome Tarmo Reception" today (November 7):
David (Chairman of Board of Governors of the Hong Kong Philharmonic Society, Mr David Cogman), Tarmo (Music Director of the HK Phil, Mr Tarmo Peltokoski), Vincent (Chairman of the Chow Sang Sang Group, Mr Vincent Chow), ladies and gentlemen,
Good evening. I have the greatest pleasure to join you at this reception to officially welcome our new Music Director, Tarmo Peltokoski. I say welcome, but of course, Tarmo is already a familiar and highly respected figure among our musicians and audiences. Tonight's reception is a formal introduction, but really, it should feel even more like a homecoming party.
First, let me propose that once again we give a good round of applause to Tarmo and all the talented instrumentalists, vocalists and choristers, from Hong Kong and overseas for the stunning performance of Mahler's Symphony No. 8 just now. The performance was a magnificent close to the HK Phil's complete Mahler cycle; but it was also a splendid fanfare for the new era under Maestro Tarmo's baton.
Great artistic synergy takes time to build, yet today it felt entirely natural. Tarmo first sparked this chemistry as the HK Phil's Guest Conductor in 2023, strengthened it as Music Director Designate last season, and he now finally steps into his new role with deep familiarity and well-honed artistry. Tonight's concert is a brilliant showcase of Tarmo's assured stage performance, exceptional conducting prowess, and seamless teamwork with the HK Phil's talented musicians. Just now I told Winnie (Vice-Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Hong Kong Philharmonic Society, Ms Winnie Tam), if I were a choir member, I would also be very, very happy to work with a conductor like Tarmo.
I am fully confident that this strong partnership will elevate the HK Phil to new heights and enrich Hong Kong's vibrant cultural scene. The Hong Kong SAR Government proudly supports the HK Phil in its further effort to solidify its role as a cultural flagship of our city. Together, we will project Hong Kong's artistic brilliance on the global stage, reinforcing our position as an East-meets-West cultural exchange centre.
As a music lover myself, please allow me to express my warmest thanks to Tarmo and all the musicians for an unforgettable orchestral feast. Here is to a new era for the HK Phil - one filled abundantly with breathtaking music, rewarding projects, and exciting milestones ahead. Tonight is just a remarkable beginning, and the best is yet to come.
Let us all enjoy the rest of this delightful evening. Do keep your eyes and ears open. I'm told there will be surprise bonus encore performances during the reception, and I, for one, definitely won't want to miss them. Thank you very much.
Source: AI-found images
