The Chief Executive, Mr Chui Sai On, speaks to reporters.
The Chief Executive, Mr Chui Sai On, today said the Government paid great attention to the welfare of retired greyhound dogs that were once used in the operations of the defunct greyhound racing betting concession.
As of this morning (Tuesday), the Government had yet to receive an application requesting a zoning change for a plot in Pac On in order for the land to be used for a dog shelter for animals waiting to be rehomed. The plan was proposed last week by the former greyhound racing betting concessionaire, Macao (Yut Yuen) Canidrome Co. Ltd.
The Government looked forward to a solution that could ensure the welfare of the animals concerned, Mr Chui said. He added that the attention given by the authorities to the treatment of greyhounds reflected the Government’s determination to promote animal welfare and showed the community’s high awareness for animal rights.
Mr Chui made the comments on the sidelines of the opening ceremony of the Bairro da Ilha Verde Health Centre.
Asked about the Viva Macau case, Mr Chui said the Commission Against Corruption (CCAC) had launched an investigation into the loans granted between 2008 and 2009 to the bankrupt airline company; if the investigation found that any wrongful acts involved, the graft buster would transfer the case to the Public Prosecutions Office for follow up.
In addition, Mr Chui stressed that Government departments would continue to strengthen communication with members of the public regarding a proposal to build storage facilities for hazardous materials in the area between Cotai and Coloane.
The Government would provide the public with more details regarding: the criteria for selecting the proposed location for the storage facility for hazardous materials; the type of goods to be stored there; the storing and transport conditions for the materials concerned; and the planned emergency response measures in case of accident.
The Government paid close attention to opinions from the public on this matter, said Mr Chui. The Government always strived to ensure public safety, in order to make Macao a safe place for all and a happy, prosperous and stable society.