"Transport for All" making public transport services accessible and practicable

A "Transport for All" (TforA) logo to promote the concept of providing a barrier free environment and accessible public transport services to people with a disability and the elderly was unveiled today (July 3).

The Transport Department (TD) held a prize presentation ceremony for TforA Logo Competition today. The competition, divided into Open, Secondary School and Primary School Divisions, attracted more than 500 entries.

The champion logo uses a dual colour scheme to embrace the harmonious relationship of all people, regardless of physical abilities and age. Its fluid stroke symbolises the accessibility of a modern transport system. The logo shows a celebratory, joyous spirit exuded by a barrier-free transport system.

Officiating at the prize presentation ceremony, the Commissioner for Transport, Mr Robert Footman, said one of the TD's missions was to provide better transport services to the public.

"We have always been dedicated to provide a barrier-free environment and accessible pubic transport services to the persons with a disability and the elderly," Mr Footman said.

"The vision of 'Transport for All' is to develop a clear concept of the way ahead for making our public transport services as accessible and practicable as possible."

He explained that TD had formulated "Five-Betters Strategy" to provide clear directions for planning and implementation -

	Better accessible transport services for all;
	Better public transport infrastructure and facilities for all;
	Better streets and pedestrian area for all;
	Better planning standards, guidelines and procedures; and
	Better partnership for actions and results.

During the ceremony, two TV Announcements in the Public Interests (APIs) - Courtesy of General Public on Public Transport and Traffic Facilities for Persons with a Disability - were first broadcast to promote the concept.

Mr Footman expressed his heartfelt thanks to all parties concerned in making the launching and development of the TforA programme a success. These parties included members of the expert group, panel judges of the logo competition, co-organisers and sponsors, as well as participating Non-government Organisations (NGOs) serving the persons with a disability and the elderly.

He finally wished that everyone could join hands in bringing out a barrier-free environment for Hong Kong.

Officiating guests in today's ceremony included the Commissioner for Rehabilitation, Mrs Mary Ma Lo To-wan; the Chairperson of Equal Opportunities Commission, Mrs Patricia Chu Yeung Pak-yu; and representatives from the participating NGOs.

Ends/Saturday, July 3, 2004