Insurance cover "a must" for public safety
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It is a long-standing policy for Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) to require applicants to take out public liability insurance for "exclusive and non-designated use" of its venues and for the erection of temporary structures and sound systems, etc.

"The objective is to protect public safety," an LCSD spokesman said today (May 7).

He also noted that the design of LCSD venues has already catered for staging "designated sports and leisure activities" and is in compliance with international standards and safety requirements.

"It is therefore considered not necessary to require organisers of such 'designated use' activities to take out public liability insurance unless there are other special arrangements involved," he said.

"These hiring terms have been in place for years and are well-accepted by the public. All applications for use of LCSD venues are treated in the same manner and are processed in accordance with the aforesaid procedures," the spokesman pointed out.

Meanwhile, the department is still processing the application for holding a rally at the Victoria Park on June 4.

Ends/Friday, May 7, 2004
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