The 2010-2011 Government Budget was just released by the Financial Secretary, in addition to the short term relief measures, the Government have taken the step forward to tackle longer term and structural problems like the burden of healthcare costs and sub-standard housing, inadequate non-formal learning opportunities for poor students and lack of work opportunities and skills development for low skilled and less experienced workers in the new economy.

We appreciate that the fiscal support to services to help those in need have also increased, as in the provision of residential homes for the disabled and frail elderly. It is understandable that the queue will still be there, but the public will be patient as long as they see that the commitment is there and the effort is sustained. Resources have also been allocated to launch a series of pilot and new services to help victims of domestic violence, community case management for the mentally ill, personalized home care services for the severely disabled and elderly waiting for nursing home places. Improving services to the disadvantaged is in fact proactive welfare that can empower families and individuals to become self sufficient and contributive to society. The NGOs sector commends the government's initiatives and will work with the relevant departments and bureaus to ensure that these programmes will deliver results. The provision of welfare is a social investment, which require long term planning and financial commitment. 《.....More》