Transfer or sale of LCSD facilities permits is strictly prohibited

*********************************************************



The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) reminds the public that permits for its recreation and sports facilities are non-transferable and not for sale.

Recent days have seen a number of suspected cases of sale or transfer of facilities permits via the Internet.

These cases most commonly concern soccer pitches.

"According to the 'General Conditions of Use of LCSD Recreation and Sports Facilities', the hirer must be one of the users of the facility," an LCSD spokesman said.

"Members of the public are therefore advised that any transfer or sale of permits is strictly prohibited.

"We will not tolerate such abuses and suspected cases will be referred to the Police for further investigation," the spokesman said.

"We have also stepped up checking of hirers' identities to ensure fair use of our facilities," he added.

Hirers are required to show proof of identity at the check-in counter when they arrive for their sessions. Those who fail to produce proof of identity will be denied use of the facilities.

The rules and regulations governing the use of facilities are printed on the application forms and the permits.

"We remind everyone that bookings for all LCSD recreation and sports facilities should be made through proper channels including bookings over the counters of the respective venues or via the Leisure Link services.

"We will make continuous and concerted efforts to enforce the prohibitions against transfer or sale of permits," said the spokesman.

End/Saturday, August 16, 2003

NNNN