Counter-proposal on the cards
CIVIL servants and labour unionists are to work out a counter-proposal to the pension scheme.
Labour representatives from the Legislative Council, Labour Advisory Board (LAB) and the major civil service staff councils yesterday resolved to set up a study group on the plan.
The group aims to reach a consensus and put forward a compromise proposal before the consultation period ends on October 31.
In yesterday's discussion between unionists and civil servants representing senior, junior, disciplined staff and the police force, views were divided on the scheme, said Chinese Civil Servants' Association vice-president Wong Kong-sang.
''A majority disagree because the proposal confuses a retirement scheme with elderly welfare, he said.
''They also worried that the scheme will bring a heavy burden to the society economies,'' he said.
The LAB representative, Leung Fu-wah, said: ''The civil servants, who basically agreed with the spirit to help the elderly, are afraid they will be criticised as selfish if they reject it.'' ''The study group therefore is to bring the two sides together and find the most feasible proposal to represent the employees,'' he said.
The first meeting will be held by the end of this month.
