The Hong Kong government has determined that masks need not be worn in the country parks. Effective recently, four people can eat together in restaurants. Other relaxations are taking effect gradually and on a trial basis. Why, then, are the barriers to the country park barbecue sites still in place? The tables at barbecue sites are already socially distanced much more than in any restaurant, they are outside in the fresh air, and the barbecue sites are generally in remote locations with limited use at the busiest times. Considering that there are no restrictions on the number of people crowding on buses to get to the country parks, why restrict access to barbecue sites inside those parks? Hong Kong swimming pools can be open, but not the beaches? I personally don’t use the sites, but it is annoying to see illogical Covid-19 restrictions in place for no reason. It is irritating to see the country parks still littered with the red-and-white tape or large orange barriers for no reason. The cynic in me suspects that the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, rather than promoting safe activities inside the country park, prefers to leave the barriers up to make their jobs easier. Can the AFCD either explain why these barriers remain in place or, better yet, remove them immediately? J. Herbert, Sai Kung Blocked pavement poses risk to the elderly Since January this year, I have repeatedly complained to the government via Tellme@1823.gov.hk about two mobile metal scaffolds occupying the pavement at the gas station near No. 3 MacDonnell Road. I sent in no less than 15 emails, and the customer service officer replied, forwarding my complaint to various departments, namely the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, Lands Department and the police. My understanding is any obstruction of a pavement is considered an offence under the public cleanliness ordinance. However, there has been no effort by those departments to either remove or impound the metal scaffolds, or prosecute the perpetrator. As I am too exasperated to call the hotline again, I am writing this open letter to expose the system’s incompetence. Is there no concern for the safety of and inconvenience to the general public, particularly elderly residents in the area? Helen C. Ma, Macdonell Road
