Right of abode seekers schooling issue ignites heated debate

Recent debate over whether mainland children in Hong Kong waiting for court ruling on their abode cases should receive education is as hot as the re-election of the Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa.

Arguments on the affirmative side are mostly based on the importance of upholding international agreements such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. It is on both legal and humanitarian grounds not right for the Government to bar these mainland children from Hong Kong schools.

Providing schooling to mainland children who are granted temporary stay in Hong Kong is the responsibility of the Government and the Education Department.

It is not, however, a legal obligation for the Government to provide free education to them. Similarly, it is not necessary for the Government to offer places in subsidised schools to the mainlanders, provided it does not deprive them of their right to access to any kinds of education on offer.

Children should be protected and provided with an environment favourable to their development. It is the responsibility of their parents, however, rather than the Government, to place their children in a place which is beneficial to their growth.

Support services should also be provided and the mainlanders should be encouraged to seek help if necessary.