Should a wind farm be built off Sai Kung? Recent correspondents have questioned whether the hefty cost of setting up a wind farm in Hong Kong would be worth it. True, these plans do not come cheap. However, the alternatives are even more expensive, in several ways. It is an unfortunate fact that the production of much energy on the mainland, mostly from fossil fuels, seriously degrades the environment. Clouds of pollution generated by mainland factories too often obscure the skies, including those over Hong Kong. And then there is the human cost, not the least being the ill health caused to many in the region by breathing polluted air. Even more costly is the reckoning of the early deaths of Chinese miners. Wind power, wave power and solar power could, and should, all be developed swiftly on the mainland, to limit the pollution caused by existing energy-production methods. The lives of thousands of Chinese people would be saved, as well. In Hong Kong, we can, and should, take a strong first step in this desirable direction by introducing wind-produced energy sources as soon as possible. These early steps can be followed by an exponential development of other alternative energy sources. This example could give hope that the mainland's vast and growing needs for energy can be met from similar sources, to a far greater extent, in the near future. Paul Surtees, Mid-Levels Should rules on outdoor open space be more flexible? I visit Hong Kong regularly and am disappointed by the recent talk of banning outdoor dining in Western and Central districts. It is one of the joys of visiting Hong Kong. I may be forced by such infringements on individual rights and killjoy movements to start spending my time and money in another city if these trends continue. What can I do to voice my opposition to such ridiculous movements by little people who have nothing better to do than encroach upon the enjoyment of others in a fine city? I live in Dublin and I have seen the efforts of similar small people and politicians gain momentum. These tiny special-interest groups push and bully, and so often it is the majority that loses out and becomes a victim. The reason the silent majority is not heard is that people do not have the spare time to do anything when they finally hear about what is happening. Most people work hard trying to build up their businesses and make a profit, and then something like this happens. It is a case of killing the goose that lays the golden egg. Moves like the open-space issue in Hong Kong restrict people's enjoyment of life, and the creation and success of businesses. The problem is that when these rights are taken away they are not given back and a precedent is set that can lead to further intrusion into our private lives. Groups that get behind one fad or another can be very dangerous indeed. With all that is going on in the world, can these special-interest groups really think that this is the best use of their time? Surely, the members of the Central and Western district councils should have the greater good in mind. They should appreciate that by taking this measure, they harm the businesses that add to people's enjoyment. And if firms suffer, this will lead to a reduction in tax revenue. People need to stand up and speak out against such initiatives if they are opposed to them. The constituents need to demand that the Central and Western district councils govern on their behalf. CampbellM.Walker, Dublin, Ireland On other matters ... I read with considerable concern the report 'Security chief appeals to Mui Wo to support college for addicts', June 9. Secretary for Security Ambrose Lee Siu-Kwong expects Mui Wo residents to support the establishment of a private school for young drug offenders, located almost in the heart of this small community. Mr Lee needs to ask himself why exactly the residents of Mui Wo would do that. Has he for one moment considered how the parents of children living in Mui Wo would feel about the close presence of up to 200 drug addicts? As the report points out, there has been absolutely no consultation with the residents of Mui Wo. To house such a college in the middle of a village is ludicrous, no matter how many assurances the government may give that residents are safe from these people (and I hasten to repeat that no such assurances have ever been offered). There must be dozens of more suitable locations for these drug offenders to be brought back into society without having to be in such close proximity to an existing community. I strongly urge Mr Lee to reconsider this proposal. Lantau already has more than its fair share of correctional institutions, but at least they have been thoughtfully located in isolated areas, easing the concerns of Lantau residents. While we all sympathise with the plight of these drug offenders, our concern for the welfare of our families, and in particular our children, must come first. Chris Meecham, Lantau
