'Care Of Disabled Has Become A Social Tragedy'

The plight of people taking care of those with disabilities has become “a social tragedy” as restrictions imposed due to the Covid-19 outbreaks has left many without any help, said Labour Party lawmaker Fernando Cheung.

Cheung, who formerly represented the social welfare sector, said that things are even harder for carers as welfare services meant for the handicapped have been suspended.

"During this pandemic, we know a lot of these services are suspended. Daycare services, community services, and even schools have been suspended,” said Cheung.

“As a result, all of the caring responsibilities fall on the carers – the mothers mostly," he said.

Democratic Party lawmaker and chair of Legco’s welfare services panel, Roy Kwong, said he has called for a special panel meeting next week to discuss the issue.

He referred to the recent case of a woman who was arrested on suspicion of killing her 21-year-old intellectually disabled son in Kwai Chung and said it was a tragedy that has left the community feeling heartbroken.

He also accused the government of failing to propose specific measures to tackle the problem.

He said that although Legco panel meetings are rarely held in September, the legislative term doesn't end until the end of the month and the chair still has the right to hold meetings.

Kwong said he has requested for a special meeting to be held next Wednesday and urged officials to attend. Other stakeholders will also be invited to be present.

Cheung also backed the move to call the special meeting. “We think that this is important to make the government accountable, and make sure they should respond with immediate ... and also long-term measures," he said.