Commission of Inquiry inspects diaphragm wall and platform slab construction works at Hung Hom Station Extension under Shatin to Central Link Project

The following is issued on behalf of the Commission of Inquiry into the Diaphragm Wall and Platform Slab Construction Works at the Hung Hom Station Extension under the Shatin to Central Link Project:

     The Chairman and Commissioner of the Commission of Inquiry into the Diaphragm Wall and Platform Slab Construction Works at the Hung Hom Station Extension under the Shatin to Central Link Project, Mr Michael John Hartmann, went to the Hung Hom Station Extension work site today (September 21) to look at the diaphragm wall and platform slab construction works under Contract No. 1112. He was accompanied by Counsel and Solicitors for the Commission.

     The Commission of Inquiry was appointed by the Chief Executive in Council under the Commissions of Inquiry Ordinance (Chapter 86) on July 10, 2018, to inquire into the matters set out in the Terms of Reference below:

     "In respect of the diaphragm wall and platform slab construction works at the Hung Hom Station Extension under the MTR Corporation Limited (MTRCL)'s Contract No. 1112 (Contract) of the Shatin to Central Link Project,

(a) (i) to inquire into the facts and circumstances surrounding the steel reinforcement fixing works, including but not limited to those works at locations that have given rise to extensive public concern about their safety since May 2018;

      (ii) to inquire into the facts and circumstances surrounding any other works which raise concerns about public safety; and

      (iii) to ascertain whether the works in (i) and (ii) above were executed in accordance with the Contract. If not, the reasons therefor and whether steps for rectification have been taken;

(b) to review, in the light of (a) above,

      (i) the adequacy of the relevant aspects of MTRCL's project management and supervision system, quality assurance and quality control system, risk management system, site supervision and control system and processes, system on reporting to Government, system and processes for communication internally and with various stakeholders, and any other related systems, processes and practices, and the implementation thereof; and

      (ii) the extent and adequacy of the monitoring and control mechanisms of the Government, and the implementation thereof; and

(c) in the light of (b) above, to make recommendations on suitable measures with a view to promoting public safety and assurance on quality of works."