The executive director of the Travel Industry Council, Fanny Yeung, said opening up part of the Mai Po closed area could boost tourism, but authorities must be very careful about conservation safeguards and how accessibility is managed.

Speaking on RTHK's Backchat programme on Tuesday, she said widening access to Mai Po would attract more tourists since it is a Ramsar-listed wetland site, which is internationally recognised for its biodiversity and the migratory bird population.

"It could attract ecotourism visitors, bird watchers, and also be a good development for study tours, which strengthens Hong Kong's image as a hub for environmental education," she said.

The Security Bureau noted in a document submitted to the Legislative Council earlier in February that it is planning to amend the Frontier Closed Area Order to further open up the area for convenient access to Mai Po.

Citizens would only need to apply for a Mai Po Marsh Entry Permit from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department in accordance with the existing Wild Animals Protection Ordinance, and would no longer be required to apply for a Frontier Close Area Permit from the police.

Yeung suggested the number of people and their time inside the restricted area should be strictly controlled, adding that guides could be arranged to lead the visitors.

She noted that bird migration and nesting times should also be taken into account when a visit is planned, especially during peak migratory seasons.

She added there should also be a limited quota on small-to-medium sized coaches carrying visitors due to the sensitive ecological environment of Mai Po.


Edited by Tony Sabine