Following is the transcript of remarks by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Kevin Yeung, at a media session after attending a radio programme this morning (January 28):
 
Reporter: Given the series of mega events to be held in Hong Kong in the coming year, how many tourists or how much economic benefits are expected?
 
Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism: In terms of economic benefits, of course, the direct economic benefits will be the number of tourists coming to attend these mega events. That will bring a lot of other incomes relating to, for example, the accommodation, as well as their spending in Hong Kong. But more important is the mega events would bring a lot of related management, administration, organisation to come, as well as help the promotion of Hong Kong as a major event capital, which I think will also be beneficial to Hong Kong in the long term.
 
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)

     To encourage the latent work force to enter the labour market, the Employees Retraining Board's Post-50 Internship Programme assists individuals aged 50 or above by equipping them with new skills to re-enter the workforce or change careers.
 
     About 800 people have signed up for the programme in the 2023-24 year, with about 150 participants being offered internships and joining experience activities.
 
     News.gov.hk spoke to some of the participants to find out how they have benefited from programme.
 
     The story is available at www.news.gov.hk/eng/feature/ today (January 28) in text and video format.

Attention TV/radio announcers:

Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:

     Here is an item of interest to swimmers.

     The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (January 28) that due to big waves, the red flag has been hoisted at Silverstrand Beach in Sai Kung District. Beachgoers are advised not to swim at the beach.

     The Transport Department today (January 28) reminded members of the public that the 19th round of computer ballot registration for submitting applications for Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles (the scheme) will be open from 10am tomorrow (January 29) to 11.59pm on February 1, and the ballot result will be announced on February 2.
      
     Eligible applicants for the scheme can register for computer balloting through the designated website (www.hzmbqfs.gov.hk). Successful balloting applicants are required to submit applications for the scheme within the designated date and time randomly allocated by the computer system.

Attention duty announcers, radio and TV stations:

     Please broadcast the following special announcement immediately, and repeat it at frequent intervals when the Cold Weather Warning is in force:

     The Labour Department reminds employers that as the Cold Weather Warning is in force, they should take appropriate precautions such as reminding employees who have to work outdoors or in remote areas to wear appropriately warm clothing, and make arrangements for employees to rotate from outdoor to indoor or sheltered work sites as far as possible. Employees should take note of the weather report, wear appropriately warm clothing and be mindful of their health conditions. They should notify their supervisors and seek medical help immediately if feeling unwell, such as having cold limbs and body shivering.