Members of the public can now apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) through an online service launched today by the Transport Department. Users of “iAM Smart+” or eligible applicants holding a valid personal digital certificate may apply online via the GovHK website and receive their IDP by post, without the need to visit a licensing office in person. If the submitted documents and photograph are in order, the department will normally send successful applicants their IDP by registered post within 10 working days of the online application being made. The department reminded those who plan to drive outside of Hong Kong to allow sufficient time for the IDP applications to be processed. Citizens may continue to submit IDP applications by visiting licensing offices in person. Appointments can be booked online or by calling 3763 8080 to save queuing time. Drivers may also send in their IDP applications by post or via the drop-in boxes placed at licensi
Secretary for Labour & Welfare Dr Law Chi-kwong today visited Forward Living in Tuen Mun, the first purpose-built residential care home for the elderly under a scheme that encourages provision of such premises in new private developments.
The elderly care home started operation in June, providing 191 residential care places for seniors.
Accompanied by its management team, Dr Law first took a closer look at anti-epidemic measures in the elderly home which is equipped with an air monitoring system for regular testing of air quality.
He then received a briefing on the application of gerontechnology in the premises, including the smart Elderly Homes Management System linking various facilities for one-stop drug management and monitoring of residents’ health.
Other applications include the provision of nutritional soft meals for seniors with swallowing difficulties, the installation of rehabilitation and cognitive training equipment as well as care and antibacterial furniture.
Under the scheme, the relevant elderly home premises will be exempted from paying the premium under land transactions on the condition that the developers are willing to accept certain lease conditions to ensure the delivery of such premises.
The proposed projects must also be supported by the Social Welfare and relevant departments.
The land transaction involving Forward Living was made at the end of 2012.
Dr Law said the Government would continue to increase residential care places for the elderly by adopting a multipronged approach and maximising land use, as well as encouraging participation by more private enterprises in providing quality elderly home services.
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