Secretary for Environment & Ecology Tse Chin-wan today hailed a new policy allowing the public to bring dogs into permitted restaurants as a remarkable breakthrough.
The measure takes effect today, granting customers access with their dogs to an initial batch of more than 940 permitted food premises across Hong Kong.
Mr Tse visited a permitted restaurant in the West Kowloon Cultural District this afternoon to observe the implementation of the policy and exchange views with operators and customers.
“The restaurant has made thorough preparations in terms of hygiene facilities and seating arrangements, and we can see customers bringing dogs were co-operative,” Mr Tse said. “Everyone was beaming, feeling that this is a remarkable breakthrough.”
He noted that permitted food premises are expected to demonstrate professionalism and self-discipline by strictly abiding by the laws and licensing conditions. Customers must also properly control their dogs and respect other diners to maintain a comfortable and harmonious dining environment.
To assist operators in adapting to the changes, the Food & Environmental Hygiene Department has deployed a dedicated 90-member team to visit each permitted establishment. The team provides managers with detailed explanations on statutory requirements, licensing conditions and other compliance arrangements.
The department will step up visits over the coming month to monitor the implementation and assist the catering industry in complying with the regulations.