Speaking on a radio program this morning, Lai said he was saddened by the tragedy that happened on Friday afternoon and expressed his apologies for the delay.

Lai said authorities received reports of the tree in August and the department had arranged for its contractors to follow up on August 22. He added that the contractor had inspected the tree a week later, and assessed the tree as high-risk but didn't recommend immediate removal.

He said, however, the contractor did not submit an inspection report about the tree until after Friday’s incident, in which the report was supposed to be submitted to the department within three days after the inspection.

The Lands Department chief said they are very dissatisfied with the contractor’s performance and will impose severe punishment according to the contract terms and mechanism.