Family of Hong Kong fireman who died in clifftop rescue gets government grant for bravery
Minister lauds Yau Siu-ming’s ‘utmost professionalism, leadership and bravery’
The family of the Hong Kong fireman who died during a clifftop rescue last month has received HK$4.5 million from the government for his gallantry in the line of duty.
The government minister responsible said the payment was a reflection of Yau Siu-ming’s “exceptional courage and professionalism”.
He was survived by his wife and a six-year-old son.
The government on Thursday granted the money to Yau’s family in recognition of his courage and professionalism. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Stephen Sui Wai-keung said in a statement that he hoped the money could provide relief to Yau’s family.
“The late Mr Yau displayed the utmost professionalism, leadership and bravery during the mountain rescue operation. His selfless sacrifice in order to save and protect others commands our greatest respect,” Sui said.
“We deeply mourn the loss of such an excellent and devoted public servant. The grant represents the government’s recognition of the late Mr Yau’s exceptional courage and professionalism of the highest order.”
The government gives such grants under a financial assistance scheme for relatives of those who lose their lives while saving or protecting others.
The amount is worked out according to a formula using the deceased’s age and median monthly earnings. The payment is capped at HK$9 million, with the minimum set at HK$4.5 million.
