The family members of brave deceased fireman Yau Yiu-man will be granted a sum of $6 million under the Financial Assistance Scheme for Family Members of Those Who Sacrifice Their Lives to Save Others, the Government announced today.

The late Mr Yau sacrificed his life on January 19 while attending a rescue operation for a trapped female driver in a traffic accident at Penny's Bay, Lantau Island.

The Labour & Welfare Bureau pointed out that the grant was approved by the Chairman of the Committee on Financial Assistance for Family Members of those who Sacrifice their Lives to Save Others.

Apart from paying tribute to the late Mr Yau for his gallant act, Secretary for Labour & Welfare Chris Sun expounded on what the grant represents.

​"Despite all the known risks, Mr Yau vividly demonstrated selflessness during the rescue operation. He spared no effort in saving lives, which commands our greatest respect. We deeply mourn the loss of such an excellent and devoted public servant.

“The grant represents the Government's recognition of the late Mr Yau's exceptional courage and professionalism of the highest order. We sincerely hope that the financial assistance can provide some relief to his family members."

Under the Scheme, the amount of financial assistance for each approved application is worked out according to a formula having regard to the age and normal retirement age of the deceased and the prevailing median monthly employment earnings, the bureau explained.