Mainlanders arriving in Hong Kong face numerous obstacles. They think that their children will receive a better education in a prosperous city like Hong Kong. But they may not be aware of the serious drawbacks, such as the housing shortage, in Hong Kong. Immigrants who have little money and no relatives here are the most affected. They may be forced to live in crowded conditions, and this may cause conflict with their neighbours.
The newcomers also face the prospect of unemployment, putting a heavy burden on the Government. Moreover, mainlanders are stereotyped as dirty and impolite, and hence we treat them badly. Locals are also worried about competition in the job market. Sometimes, schools are reluctant to accept immigrant children, who lag behind local pupils as a result.
The Government can implement measures to solve some of these problems. Immigrants could be provided low-rent housing in a safe and comfortable environment. Their waiting period for public housing should also be reduced, giving them enough time to integrate into society.
The Government could provide training courses to immigrants, who would be able to seek help from the Labour Department to find jobs.
The Education Department should offer more school places to immigrants. Schools can organise remedial classes to help the children adapt to their new surroundings.
Finally, the Government must ensure that there is no discrimination against the new arrivals. People have to be educated about the need for social harmony. We must all co-operate to make Hong Kong even more prosperous.
