Policy Address

Enhancing Employment Services

59.       With the implementation of the statutory minimum wage, the Labour Department (LD) will strengthen employment services for young and middle-aged people and those with disabilities.  The LD will also launch a two-year Pilot Employment Navigator Programme later this year, and set up a pilot one-stop employment and training centre in Tin Shui Wai next year to offer targeted assistance to job seekers.

Labour Rights

60.       We have amended the legislation to criminalise wilful defaults of Labour Tribunal and Minor Employment Claims Adjudication Board awards.  This is another milestone in the protection of labour rights.  The LD will rigorously enforce the law and raise public awareness of the legislation.

61.       The Protection of Wages on Insolvency Fund provides a safety net for employees affected by business closures.  To further enhance employee protection, we will amend the law to expand the scope of the fund to cover pay for untaken annual leave and statutory holidays under the Employment Ordinance.

62.       With the Minimum Wage Ordinance enacted, some suggest it is time to embark on a policy study on standard working hours.  We must handle this complex and controversial issue with care to strike a balance between the interests of various sectors. I have asked the Secretary for Labour and Welfare to conduct the study.

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