Talk of the town : Homelessness in Hong Kong
【明報專訊】What was the ruling of the court?
The Small Claims Tribunal ruled on 29 March that the police and the staff failed to meet the standard of reasonable care. Regarding compensation, the street sleepers were unable to prove the ownership of the items as they could not present any photo or receipt of the items. Eventually they were only awarded $100 as nominal compensation in spite of winning the case.
What are the controversies?
Asked about his opinions on the ruling, Ng described it as "delayed justice" (遲來的公義) as the case lasted for around 1 year and 9 months. Some claimants had passed away prior to the court hearing. Yet, they still think that the symbolic compensation could serve as a manifestation of justice.
According to Social Welfare Department figures , Hong Kong had a total of 1,432 registered street sleepers in the year 2019 -20.
(See the table)
■Grammar booster
Pass away
Polite expression for die.
e.g. He passed away several weeks ago because of his skin cancer.
■Gear up
The street sleepers won the case.(True/False)
(Answer on next text)
■Glossary
compensation (n) 補償
ownership (n) 擁有權
ruling (n) 裁決
manifestation (n) 表現
(Criticisms on this publication, if any, are aimed at pointing out the errors or defects of certain systems or policies with a view of rectifying or eradicating such errors or defects, as well as prompting improvement or remedy for them via lawful means. There is absolutely no intention of inciting hatred, discontent or hostility towards the government or other classes of the community.)
[Smarties' Power English 第346期]
