Good sense prevails over fate of tree
A beautiful Norfolk Island pine has stood guard over Maryknoll Convent School for 70 years. The 20-metre tree is a treasured landmark in Kowloon Tong just as the school is a declared monument. Every effort must be made to protect both. Though it is on private land, the government has stepped in to encourage the school not to cut it down, and the school has agreed. The government's swift action, so unlike previous responses in these matters, is welcome. Alumni and students have also played a part in prompting the school to change its mind.
School officials originally wanted the tree felled because it is believed to be in poor health and may pose a danger to pupils and neighbours if it collapses. Their concern is understandable. Public safety must always be paramount; there is no question that human life must take precedence over a tree, however rare or valuable. But, the arborist's conclusion about the state of health of the tree, on which the school's decision was based, has been disputed by two independent experts as well as the government's own inspectors. The balance of scientific opinion is that the tree is not in any immediate danger of collapse. Proper precautions, though, need to be taken to make sure it stays that way.
The city needs more greenery and trees. Old trees add charm and character to a neighbourhood. But some of them can pose a danger if they have not been properly cared for. The tragic accident in Stanley last November in which a falling tree branch killed a university student is an example of careless monitoring. The incident has also made many people nervous about large trees under their care. Maryknoll officials are no doubt keenly aware of their responsibility, but it appears their initial decision has been hasty.
In this, the government has not been very different. It was largely the accident in Stanley that prompted the government to set up a new tree management regime within the Development Bureau and appoint Chief Secretary Henry Tang Ying-yen as the 'tree tsar'. Some have been concerned that the new regime would prompt officials to chop first and ask questions later. But, as the latest episode has shown, officials understand their mandate consists of protecting and preserving trees as much as cutting down dangerous ones.
People have become increasingly aware of our city's need to protect its cultural legacy. But our natural heritage is equally important. The better we tend to our natural environment, the fewer sick or dying trees there will be to pose a danger to people.
