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Letters | Rather than point fingers, Hongkongers should join hands to rebuild

Readers discuss the need to focus on recovery amid an official investigation of the Tai Po fire, the multiple causes of the tragedy, and Hong Kong’s retail downturn

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Mourners fold paper cranes during a memorial event held outside the Wang Fuk Court apartment blocks on December 3, in the aftermath of the deadly November 26 fire in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district. Photo: AFP
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The tragic Tai Po fire that has claimed more than a hundred lives, caused multiple injuries and displaced thousands of residents has saddened the whole of Hong Kong. At the same time, it has brought the community together, with many giving donations, offering supplies, mobilising manpower and resources and providing emotional and spiritual support. There has been an impressive outpouring of support for the victims. At this difficult time, everyone is affected to varying degrees by the tragedy.
The swift action taken by law enforcement agencies has also highlighted the severity of this fire.
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Now that the government has announced the establishment of a judge-led independent committee to look into the Tai Po fire, Hongkongers should let the authorities do their job. Adding the noise of conspiracy theories would add insult to injury, hampering the investigation.

Instead of pointing fingers, we must join hands in the rebuilding and recovery efforts.

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Many of us feel moved to do something to relieve the plight of the affected residents. In fact, we can do plenty. We can praise the heroic actions of the firefighters, domestic helpers and neighbours who helped save lives, from babies and toddlers to the elderly and pets. We can laud the solidarity of the neighbourhood, which extended its helping hand in the immediate aftermath of the fire. We can share inspirational stories of good deeds and inject positivity into the community.

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