'Snooker event organiser could have asked for help'

Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung on Thursday said there's room for improvement after organisers of a privately-run snooker tournament were hit with complaints. Some fans complained about overpriced tickets, obstructed views and poor arrangements at this week's Hong Kong Snooker All Star Challenge at the Queen Elizabeth Stadium. The event was run by a company called Beyond Borders Sports Academy. “We have been supporting the organisation in providing the venue, but as it is a privately-run competition, we leave it to the organisers to make all the detailed arrangements. And it's also up to them to negotiate with the [National Sports Association] in Hong Kong whether they need their technical support or not,” Yeung told reporters after attending a cultural event. He expressed hope that organisers could make better arrangements should they host similar events in future. Meanwhile, the tourism minister said the government is prepared for a huge movement of people over the Easter and Ching Ming holidays. The Immigration Department earlier said it expects 11 million border crossings over the period. “We are aware that there will be more people crossing the border. Likely, we'll be having more people going out for holidays than coming in, because it's not a public holiday in the mainland,” he said. “But our colleagues at the border points are well prepared. And I'm sure that they will look after the people's movement and requirements.” _____________________________Last updated: 2024-03-28 HKT 16:10