honesty and integrity honesty and integrity honesty and integrity honesty and integrity Features Dedicated Chief Secretary aims for a better Hong Kong for all
Civil Service Newsletter Editorial Board
FOR many in Hong Kong, the specific role of the Chief Secretary for Administration (CS) is hard to comprehend, with few having any true understanding of the demands of the position and the many complex issues that must be addressed on a daily basis. The CS, Mrs Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, provides some insights into her current role, her priorities and her high regard for the civil service.
Mrs Lam explaining her role in the HKSAR Government to the Civil Service Newsletter (CSN) Editorial Board.
Role of the CS I truly believe that the legislature has a role to play “In a nutshell, the CS is there to assist the Chief in keeping us alert, in addition to passing legislation, Executive (CE) to govern Hong Kong,” says Mrs Lam. approving funding proposals, etc. in a system of “The CE has been elected with a very comprehensive checks and balances.” manifesto in this fourth term of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government. Whether “The third is to co-ordinate,” continues Mrs the CS or the political team or civil servants, we Lam. “There has been a complaint in recent years are all charged with delivering on this manifesto that the Government tends to be compartmentalised made as a result of extensive consultations during when different bureaux and departments work in the CE election period. I see my role as the CS in their own silos, so my role is to ensure that bureaux four specific respects. The first is to uphold the core and departments act in concert as a joined-up values of Hong Kong. It is important because the government to deliver the CE’s pledges. And on this Administration looks to the CE and the CS to ensure score I hope that we demonstrated this in the last that this is achieved in accordance with the Basic few months through various tasks we have done.” Law. I do feel that these core values in terms of the rule of law, freedom of expression, etc. are the pillars “The fourth is to lead by example and inspire of Hong Kong’s success.” the civil servants, as I believe that our civil servants will enthusiastically respond when there is clearly an “The second is to enhance the relationship issue and a direction.” between the executive authorities and the legislature.
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Greatest challenges people still have to live in very small cubicles and Mrs Lam says that manifestos are political cage homes. A compassionate government should statements. It is one of her greatest challenges to accord priority to the issue.” translate the CE’s manifesto and promises into credible, effective and implementable action plans. “While I will take a very active role and interest She opines that any such task must take into full in housing issues, I see myself as focusing more on account budgetary limitations, rules and procedures, poverty alleviation in terms of policy, partly because and uphold Hong Kong as a free economy as well as of my own commitment and compassion in regard providing a level playing field in the community. to the disadvantaged people in Hong Kong. Nine years ago, when I left my job as the Director of Addressing housing and poverty issues Social Welfare, I publicly stated that there were a few agenda items that I did not have enough time to The role of the CS also covers specific priority deal with during my tenure. It is gratifying that I can areas as identified in the CE’s policy agenda such as address these issues again in my current position. I am housing and poverty issues, and these are high on now assisting the CE in the work of the Preparatory the personal list of priorities for Mrs Lam. Task Force on the Commission on Poverty leading to the re-establishment of the Commission on Poverty, “Poverty alleviation is going to be my top and I intend to spend a lot more time focusing on priority,” states Mrs Lam. “That said, with high this over the next few years.” property prices and the home ownership aspirations of many Hong Kong people, we have to tackle the housing issues right away. The Financial Secretary is currently chairing the Steering Committee on Housing Land Supply while the Secretary for Transport and Housing is chairing the Long Term Housing Strategy Steering Committee. Work is also being undertaken by the Development Bureau, the Hong Kong Housing Authority and other institutions.”
“I always feel that in a place like Hong Kong, which is quite affluent, it is sad that some of the most vulnerable
Mrs Lam enjoying a chat with single parents.
Mrs Lam visiting a cubicle apartment in Sham Shui Po. 4 honesty and integrity honesty and integrity honesty and integrity honesty and integrity Features
“We have a very systematic way of managing and monitoring our legislative programme,” explains Mrs Lam. “I have chaired a meeting to decide the 2012-13 legislative programme. The common complaint from LegCo is that the Administration tends to put more legislative proposals towards the end of the four-year term of LegCo, which means that LegCo is coping with a very heavy workload towards the end of the LegCo term.”
“We would try to spread out the legislative proposals so that there would not be such a bunching effect. I have a role to ensure the delivery of a more evenly distributed legislative programme. Nevertheless, this is not entirely within our control. For example, we may assess that a certain piece of legislation will require only a few months’ scrutiny, but it could be subsequently prolonged for one or two years. Even so, I will still try very hard to address the issue.”
The civil service, the pillar of our Government Mrs Lam listing her personal priorities for the current term of the Government. Addressing the contributions of civil servants over the past 15 years and her expectations for the Hong Kong in the future future, Mrs Lam spoke highly of the civil service, Mrs Lam says that her number one wish is that which many regard as “the glue that binds the city five years down the road she can look back and say together”. that she has helped make Hong Kong a better place in all respects. “The 160,000-strong civil service is definitely the pillar of our Government,” states Mrs Lam. “I “Although the focus will be very much on cannot imagine what Hong Kong would become livelihood matters, I also want Hong Kong to be a without the very loyal and dedicated civil servants. better place to live, work and play,” says Mrs Lam. In all respects we work hard to ensure that our “Regarding the Commission on Poverty, there Government remains very efficient and lives up to is a general consensus among members of the people’s expectations.” Preparatory Task Force and the public, including the Legislative Council (LegCo) members that we should “As regards my own expectations, I have no focus on policies and long term solutions, rather doubt about the loyalty, dedication and efficiency of than just rolling out one project after another, which the civil servants, but I also want them to be more are short-term in nature. Therefore the Commission innovative. In practical terms, we need to continuously on Poverty is going to revisit and critically examine re-examine the way we find solutions, the way we existing policies to ensure that we are helping the deliver public services and the way we partner with disadvantaged people to achieve social mobility, different stakeholders and organisations, and to so that they would be able to share the benefits of find more creative ways of performing duties. A Hong Kong’s economic growth.” recent priority issue is how the Administration can communicate more effectively with the public at As the CS, Mrs Lam is also charged with drawing large. Apart from relying on press releases, pamphlets up the Government’s legislative programme and and announcements in the public interest, we may forging a more effective working relationship with also make use of some social media and other new LegCo. media as a means of communication.” 5 honesty and integrity honesty and integrity Features honesty and integrity honesty and integrity
To encourage civil servants, Mrs Lam points out Personal time and family that we have to go back to the CE’s manifesto. “In Talking about her family, Mrs Lam states that she the next five years, the success of the political team is grateful for their understanding of the demands and the civil service will be judged by how well we put on her as the CS, both at work and at home. deliver the CE’s promises. There is a running theme in the CE’s manifesto that we should continue to seek “A lot of allowance is given to me by my family, change while preserving stability, and this echoes especially my husband, and for that I am very with what I said about innovation and creativity. In grateful,” says Mrs Lam. “To be honest, if you look this regard, I hope that our civil servants can become at my diary, it is almost impossible to comprehend change makers. I am not suggesting that we should that there are enough hours in a day to complete rush into changing the way of doing things, but we my tasks. Moreover, the work and demands of the should continuously explore any better ways to serve job are not just physical, but also emotional and and reach out to the people of Hong Kong. All these psychological. Sometimes I become so preoccupied are the challenges civil servants are going to face in with the demands and challenges that I cannot even future.” have a decent conversation with my family, so I am very grateful for their allowance and understanding.” “Certainly we have to make our lives easier because of increasing workloads day in day out. Just “To relax, I enjoy going to the countryside,” says like many institutions, we cannot just add on things Mrs Lam with a smile. “Hong Kong’s countryside without taking away anything. That is why I want to is beautiful. Two years ago I took a day off and create more scope for bureaux and departments to went to the Mai Po Wetlands with my elder son. take on new assignments through streamlining rules I found it such a refreshing experience with all the or procedures and delegating centralised controls, beautiful birds and the natural surroundings. I also rather than just giving them more resources. One enjoy visiting our country parks and the Hong Kong area to look at, for instance, is procurement. We Geopark. We are very lucky here in Hong Kong that may have to consider if we should continue with these places are in such close proximity to the city for the current set of procurement rules without any everyone to enjoy.” adjustment, as many departments have told me that the rules are too tight for them to respond in a timely manner to the demands of the public service.”
Mrs Lam discussing with young ethnic minorities and Executive Committee members of Hong Kong Unison.
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Enhancing service quality within the Force Hong Kong Police Force
The adjudication panel was impressed by the Force’s presentation on their continuing commitment to promote service quality.
Striving for excellence “Serving with Pride and Care” is the motto of the Hong Kong Police Force (the Force). The Force is determined to provide quality service to the public by keeping abreast of the changing social environment and adjusting its performance in order to meet evolving community expectations.
The bedrock of this initiative is the Force Vision, out to all sectors of the community so that the Statement of Common Purpose and Values that needs of people can be efficiently assessed and were formulated in 1996. These aim to foster a met. Examples of recent developments are the culture of “providing people-oriented services refinements to the “Junior Police Call” scheme and striving for excellence” so that all Force and the roll-out of a new “Police Public Page”. members will work towards a common goal to The website has been enhanced with multi-media enhance the quality of service. features that provide an interactive experience, such as games, ringtones and wallpaper Over the years this initiative has evolved, and in downloads. It is hoped that these features will pursuing its aims the Force has adopted a proactive attract more young people to browse the website and comprehensive engagement strategy to reach and to learn about the Force’s work.
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Since 1996 the Force has run the “Living the Who cares wins Values” workshops for all officers and civilian The Police Negotiation Cadre (PNC) was staff. This aims at anchoring core values of service established in 1975, initially as an integral part of within the organisation by engaging staff and the Force’s counter-terrorist response. Since 1985, it fostering their commitment to change and to has expanded its involvement to domestic hostage provide quality service. incidents and suicide intervention situations. In recent years, the PNC has further extended its The Force runs various award schemes to services through sharing members’ professional encourage staff at all levels to contribute good knowledge and experience in crisis situations ideas that promote the culture of quality service. with other government departments and Certificates and cash prizes are awarded to those non-governmental organisations. whose suggestions are formally adopted. The PNC has spared no effort in maintaining The Force continues to make every effort to the highest standards of individual and team enhance the public understanding of its work. professionalism. This has been achieved through Various media and communication tools are used, local and overseas training, accreditation courses, as including the Force’s newspaper OffBeat, Police well as research and experience sharing with both Magazine, open forums, district publications, local and overseas counterparts. the “Good Citizen Award” scheme, and the Force’s website. The PNC has been working closely with the University of Hong Kong to conduct evidence- based research on “Understanding Aborted Suicide Attempts”. The research findings will be crucial not only for future training and human resources management, but also for the development of a robust suicide prevention strategy and standard operating procedures for the unit.
PNC members serve under the motto “Who Cares Wins”, with a commitment to providing the best possible crisis negotiation service to the citizens of Hong Kong.
The Police Negotiation Cadre in action.
The Force was the proud recipient of two notable awards presented under the Civil Service Outstanding Service Award Scheme 2011 in acknowledgement of its ongoing commitment and contribution to Hong Kong society, namely, the Departmental Service Enhancement Award (Large Department) Gold Prize, and the Crisis/ Incident Support Service Award Gold Prize.
8 honesty and integrity honesty and integrity honesty and integrity honesty and integrity Features Civil servants prove their mettle during Typhoon Vicente
Civil Service Newsletter Editorial Board
BEING the first No. 10 Signal since 1999, Typhoon Vicente struck Hong Kong on July 23 and 24, 2012. As Typhoon Vicente approached Hong Kong, a sense of urgency immediately enveloped the city as people rushed to go home and secure property and possessions before the onslaught of gale force winds and the predicted
A radar image provided by HKO showing Typhoon Vicente over Hong Kong. havoc it would cause.
While most people remained safe in the secure residents were safe. We are delighted to provide confines of their homes and simply listened to readers with some insights into the actions of just a the howling winds and rain enveloping the city, few of the many who stepped up to keep us all safe. civil servants, government contractors and public transport operators once again demonstrated their HKO launches weather balloon mettle, holding down the fort and performing their The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) issued duties most professionally, despite the adverse, and Hurricane Signal No. 10 in relation to the approaching sometimes hazardous, weather conditions across Typhoon Vicente in the early hours of July 24, and the the city. automated upper-air sounding system at King’s Park Meteorological Station was programmed to All bureaux and departments are acknowledged undertake enhanced observations through the for dedicating their time and professional expertise ascent of weather balloons. to informing, guiding and ensuring all Hong Kong
The DSD Emergency Control Centre (ECC) operating during Typhoon Vicente.
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However, the winds were so strong that the media, as well as the urgent need to issue press protective cover of the balloon launcher could not announcements on emergency incidents related be opened. As the eye of Typhoon Vicente passed to the typhoon, the CIC emergency team worked nearby and there was an urgent need to gather closely with the Emergency Monitoring and Support valuable data, HKO staff Yeung Yu-shin and Yip Centre, which is the Government Secretariat’s main Choi-hung, who were on duty that stormy night, monitoring and support centre for emergencies and promptly decided to switch to manual operation natural disasters. They also frequently liaised with at safe conditions and successfully completed the relevant bureaux and departments, public utilities task of launching the weather balloon despite the and others to compile regular typhoon updates for adverse weather. dissemination to the public. CIC press releases and announcements covered items such as the enforced ISD swings into action suspension of ferry, bus and train services, the The Information Services Department (ISD) has closure of ports and schools, cancellation of flights, an essential role to play during emergency situations, tree damage and flooding, etc. such as typhoons and aviation accidents. When the implementation of emergency measures is considered When the typhoon signal was lowered to No. 3 necessary, the Director of Information Services will shortly after 10am on July 24, the CIC team, activate the Combined Information Centre (CIC), exhausted after the long night’s work, breathed a the main government agency for disseminating collective sigh of relief as it became clear that Hong information to the public through the media, in order Kong had emerged from Typhoon Vicente without to keep the public abreast of developments that may any fatal injuries. affect them and to demonstrate the Government’s commitment as a caring and efficient administration. DSD efforts ensure public safety When Typhoon Vicente approached on July 23 and While the public were busily making their way the Government’s emergency units and related home at the end of the working day, on-call duty services all swung into action, ISD activated the staff of the Drainage Services Department (DSD)’s CIC in the evening of July 23 to provide up-to-the- Emergency and Storm Damage Organisation (ESDO) minute information on the general situation and were preparing to leave their office and rush to the issue Government’s responses to the media. Emergency Control Centre (ECC) of DSD in Cheung Sha Wan. DSD’s Direct Labour Force (DLF) and the Located at the ISD Headquarters, the CIC contractors’ working teams also headed to their is manned by Information Officers redeployed designated spots across Hong Kong. The ECC was from various bureaux and departments during activated and staff were ready for emergency works emergencies. Braving the strong winds and torrential when HKO issued the No. 8 Signal at 5.40pm. downpours brought by Typhoon Vicente, experienced Information Officers reported as promptly as possible to the CIC, while others, despite already having performed a normal day’s work, were obliged to remain at their desks to perform further duties round the clock.
Inundated by various enquiries from local and overseas
LCSD staff clearing tree debris following Typhoon Vicente.
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personnel of the Fire Services Department (FSD) could not agree more.
In the early hours on July 24, the foot of a crew member on a catamaran passenger vessel berthed in the waters off Yau Kam Tau was severed by a rope and an emergency rescue was required. The fireboat Excellence hurried to the scene upon instruction. During that time, Hong Kong was also under the attack from Typhoon Vicente. Hurricane Signal No. 10 had been hoisted and the sea was extremely rough. Excellence was greeted with strong gales and the helmsman had to constantly adjust the course bearings to offset the impact of the winds and waves.
Upon arrival at the scene, Excellence was exposed to the same inclement weather conditions as faced by the passenger vessel. Hit by strong winds FSD vessel Excellence is always ready for action. and pummeled by very big waves, Excellence rocked from side to side and tilted up and down. With great During the passage of Typhoon Vicente, HKO difficulty, Excellence eventually moored alongside issued Hurricane Signal No. 10. At the time of this the catamaran. announcement, DSD staff were working hard at the ECC to deal with emergency cases arising from the Following the administering of first aid to the typhoon. On the other hand, DLF and contractor injured crew member, the rescue team carried him teams endeavoured to inspect the storm water onto Excellence for delivery to hospital. The winds drainage systems and to clear blockages. Despite continued to blow fiercely and the journey to hospital the force of the ensuing winds and rain, DSD staff thus became another challenge. worked professionally to clear drainage blockages in order to alleviate the impact on the public as a result Upon the safe completion of the mission, rescue of flooding. personnel of FSD breathed a sigh of relief and the injured crew member expressed his heartfelt thanks At about dawn on July 24, after staff on duty for their help. Although danger and difficulties were had already been working under the ESDO for nearly encountered in the rescue operation, the rescue 12 hours, another team of on-call staff listed on the personnel greatly felt that their efforts did pay off as ESDO roster reported to ECC to take up the duties the person in distress was saved. from their exhausted colleagues and continued to deal with emergency cases, notwithstanding the This rescue operation was one of the many severe weather conditions at the time. calls for assistance received by the FSD during the passage of Typhoon Vicente. In response to 436 Although the No. 8 Signal was cancelled at fire calls, 599 calls for special services and 1,134 about 10am, DSD staff were still working hard to calls for emergency ambulance services received, ensure that all cases had been properly handled hundreds of operational staff of Fire Stream and and attended to. The ECC was finally de-activated ambulance personnel worked at full steam under the around 2pm. inclement weather while the staff at the Fire Services Communications Centre mobilised fire engines and FSD faces battle at sea ambulances and deployed manpower in an effort There is a Chinese saying: “risk is inevitable to protect the life and property of citizens from in sea navigation and horse riding”. Fireboat calamities.
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LCSD restores normality to streets also cleared thanks to the effective deployment of and venues LCSD’s resources. The Leisure and Cultural Services Department To ensure proper maintenance of trees under its (LCSD) is responsible for managing and maintaining management, LCSD carries out regular inspections, some 500,000 trees in its leisure venues and roadside as well as pruning and reinforcement works, as and areas across Hong Kong. when necessary to improve their resistance to strong winds. LCSD also deploys its staff and horticultural During the passage of Typhoon Vicente, 4,700 contractors to take appropriate precautions before of these trees were toppled by strong winds. In the onset of the typhoon season. response, LCSD mobilised its 200-strong tree team, venue staff and contractors to clean up in the aftermath. Clearing fallen trees from roads CE acknowledges meritorious and pavements was given priority, followed by the service restoration of the cityscape, which involved the In acknowledgement of the outstanding and removal of broken tree branches and the pruning meritorious services undertaken by staff across and replanting of some trees. various bureaux and departments during Typhoon Vicente, the Chief Executive (CE), Mr Leung Chun- Applying their expertise and concerted ying, hosted an appreciation reception on August 3 efforts, the LCSD tree teams worked for 36 hours at the Government House. consecutively during the typhoon to ensure the speedy removal of all fallen trees. Prior to the No. 8 The speedy actions taken by various bureaux and Signal being hoisted, the management of LCSD had departments in the arrival of Typhoon Vicente and activated the departmental contingency procedures the subsequent hoisting of Hurricane Signal No. 10 and set up an emergency co-ordination centre to once again demonstrated the preparedness of the collaborate via phone and computer systems with civil service and effective deployment. We salute other departments in handling requests for tree the staff of all relevant bureaux and departments removal. The centre was inundated with incoming for their dedication and conscientiously carrying phone calls throughout the night. Despite a very long out their respective duties to ensure the safety of day’s work, colleagues on duty remained vigilant, all Hong Kong residents during and after Typhoon duly referring reports of fallen trees to various tree Vicente. teams for follow-up.
Due primarily to the concerted efforts of LCSD’s staff and contractors, fallen trees that affected the daily lives of the public were substantially cleared within one week following the typhoon. A few days later, the remaining fallen trees that did not cause any obstruction to traffic or pedestrians were
The CE commending the meritorious service demonstrated by all bureaux and departments during Typhoon Vicente.
12 commitment to the rule of law commitment to the rule of law commitment to the rule of law commitment to the rule of law Close up Tree Management Office at work Development Bureau
A leafy tree breathing life into the environment.
SOME people may think that staff working at the Tree Management Office (TMO) are those workers using secateurs and chainsaws for pruning trees along the roadside. In fact, these are frontline staff or contractors of tree management departments, but not the TMO. The TMO is a policy team comprising more than ten professionals who coordinate departmental tree management, develop industry standards and guidelines, pioneer research work, and monitor the tree complaint handling mechanism and emergency response system.
Following the recommendations stipulated in the sustainable development of a greener the Report of the Task Force on Tree Management environment in Hong Kong. published in June 2009, the Development Bureau (DEVB) has assumed overall policy responsibility The GLTM Section is underpinned by the for greening, landscaping and tree management. Greening and Landscape Office and the TMO. The Greening, Landscape and Tree Management Both offices work in close cooperation to promote (GLTM) Section was established under the Works a holistic greening approach that embraces quality Branch of DEVB in March 2010 to champion a landscape planning and design in the upstream new, strategic policy on greening, landscaping and professional vegetation management in the and tree management with a view to achieving downstream. Due emphasis is placed on the protection of public safety as a priority consideration. 13 commitment to the rule of law commitment to the rule of law commitment to the rule of law Close up commitment to the rule of law
Training courses organised by the TMO are well-received.
Policy on tree management “I find working at the TMO a welcome challenge, The Government adopts an “integrated despite the longer working hours,” says Ms Yan. approach” for tree management on Government “The nature of the work I now handle is entirely land. In essence, the department responsible for the different from that in my previous post.” maintenance of an area or a facility is also responsible for the maintenance of the trees there. To ensure a One of her major tasks is to revise a technical more effective implementation across departments circular on tree preservation, which has provided of the “integrated approach” to tree management, her with an ideal opportunity to understand the the TMO acts as a central authority to steer policy, as work of different departments, the complexity a focal point of coordination of departmental efforts and crux of issues, and a chance to liaise with and as a provider of arboricultural expertise. various departments in order to reach an optimal arrangement. In addition, as a member of the TMO staff Centralised Tree Support Team that conducts spot checks and audit inspections of trees all over The TMO officers specialise in arboriculture and Hong Kong, she finds it very satisfying to be able are equipped with various professional arboricultural to identify and reduce risks that problematic trees qualifications. A number of them also possess may pose to the life and property of citizens. Ms Yan doctoral degrees in botany and arboriculture-related always treasures the exposure and experience she subjects. has gained while working at the TMO.
Colette Yan Ka-lok, a Tree Management Officer, David Chaiong is one of the Tree Management joined the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Officers seconded from the Leisure and Cultural Department as a Forestry Officer in 2009 and worked Services Department following the establishment of as a Nature Conservation Officer prior to her posting the TMO in 2010. He is a Senior Leisure Services to the TMO. Her academic background in plant Manager with years of solid experience and training biology, geography and horticulture, together with in arboriculture and landscape design. a doctoral degree in biogeography (arboriculture) ideally equipped her for these posts. She had also As a Tree Management Officer, Mr Chaiong is worked as an intern with a group of experienced mainly responsible for coordinating and organising arborists at a public garden in the United States. public education and community involvement 14 commitment to the rule of law commitment to the rule of law commitment to the rule of law commitment to the rule of law Close up
programmes, formulate standards and guidelines, As part of the effort to enhance the TRA work carry out inspection work as part of the Central of the tree management departments, the TMO has Tree Support Team and provide support on tree also performed audit inspections of TRA forms management matters to some tree management completed by various departments. The audit aims departments. at providing quality controls for departments with respect to tree inspection; identification of systemic “The job of tree management is both issues requiring improvement by departments; and challenging and fulfilling,” says Mr Chaiong. “I reviews and updates of TRA guidelines for follow-up enjoy the diversity of tasks, which not only allows actions taken by departments. During the past two me to apply my specialised knowledge extensively, TRA exercises, more than 1,000 inspection forms but also provides me with a precious opportunity have been audited by the TMO’s field checks. to gain exposure to various fields of arboriculture. I also treasure the training work in promoting With the concerted efforts of the tree arboriculture to professionals and the public.” Mr management departments under the coordination Chaiong is also one of the trainers for the Tree of the TMO, we can surely accomplish greater Risk Assessment Training Programme, the “Train effects in order to achieve the goal of “People, the Trainers” Programme for the Tree Care Badge Trees, Harmony”. of the Scout Association of Hong Kong, and the Community Tree Surveillance Programme for schools and 18 districts.
Work focus of TMO Some tree collapsing incidents that occurred over the past few years have aroused public concern over the hazards posed by trees. Therefore, the primary task of the TMO is to establish the tree risk assessment (TRA) mechanism and equip staff with the knowledge about arboriculture to undertake tree risk assessment and management duties. Since its establishment in 2010, the TMO has organised over 140 training programmes and education seminars on TRA and other tree-related themes for over 17,000 trainees.
This majestic silk tree has been preserved in situ at a garden along Sau Ming Road during the redevelopment of Sau Mau Ping Estate.
Ms Yan enjoying the challenges and satisfaction derived from her work at the TMO.
15 commitment to the rule of law commitment to the rule of law commitment to the rule of law Close up commitment to the rule of law Strengthening smart regulation infrastructure helps sustain business environment Economic Analysis and Business Facilitation Unit, Financial Secretary’s Office
THE “Be the Smart Regulator” Programme (the Programme) has now been underway for five years. During this period, the 29 bureaux/departments (B/Ds) which have joined the Programme have greatly improved their business licensing services in terms of efficiency, transparency and business-friendliness. These improvements have been well Colleagues attending the Refresher Workshop received by the business sector. 2011/2012 on Business Facilitation.
According to the World Bank’s Doing Business Facilitation Unit (EABFU) has developed a BCC 2013 Report released in October 2012, Hong Kong framework utilising an easy-to-use IT tool – an excel remains the second easiest place to do business in spreadsheet. EABFU has drawn upon references to the world, up three places from the fifth position six overseas experience and specific local environment, years ago. Our persistently high ranking in relation as well as valuable input from the Food and to the ease of doing business here is a testimony Environmental Hygiene Department, the Home Affairs to the Government’s continued efforts to further Department and the Leisure and Cultural Services enhance our business environment and long-term Department in developing the BCC framework. competitiveness. The BCC framework initially covers three To sustain the momentum of the Programme main categories of compliance costs, namely, and facilitate B/Ds in taking forward their administrative costs (e.g. internal staff costs to regulatory reforms, the Government has been deal with relevant paperwork), substantive costs developing useful tools and establishing necessary (e.g. costs of purchasing relevant equipment), infrastructure, such as Business Liaison Groups, and financial costs (e.g. payment of licence fees the Business Impact Assessment framework, the to the Government and regulatory bodies). Under Business Consultation e-Platform, and Online Licence this framework, only marginal costs incurred as Application Tracking Facilities. a consequence of complying with a regulation are measured, while business-as-usual costs are Reducing regulatory impact and excluded. With the aid of the framework, B/Ds compliance costs to business can assess compliance costs systematically. The The latest infrastructure developed for the framework also provides clues for B/Ds to explore Programme is the Business Compliance Cost (BCC) the opportunities for reducing business compliance framework introduced in April 2012. Prior to this there costs and other regulatory burdens. was no uniform approach in assessing compliance costs. Different B/Ds were used to adopting their own assessment methods when formulating new regulations, reviewing existing regulatory regimes, or amending existing regulations, administrative measures and procedures.
To facilitate B/Ds in assessing business compliance costs in a structured and consistent The Business Compliance Cost framework introduced in April 2012 by 16 manner, the Economic Analysis and Business the EABFU. commitment to the rule of law commitment to the rule of law commitment to the rule of law commitment to the rule of law Close up
Taking the compliance cost assessment of the Food Safety Ordinance as an example, the law requires food traders to keep proper transaction records in order to facilitate tracing the sources of each problematic food case. However, the business impact assessment conducted by the consultant revealed that most food traders had already kept relevant business records for tax filing purposes. A model for managing Record-keeping is thus a business-as-usual cost to the expectations of trades. these food traders and should not be included. The compliance cost of record-keeping only accounts Yet, the trade may gradually take such service for 0.04% to 0.14% of small and medium-sized improvements for granted. For example, the food retailers’ operating costs, according to the e-application system is becoming a common service. consultant’s report. In addition, it was noted in the B/Ds should therefore keep on reviewing their compliance cost assessment that a certification fee licensing systems or procedures, identifying new would be incurred if food traders were asked to business facilitation initiatives, and offering better provide a certified copy of the Business Registration services to their customers in order to better manage Certificate during registration. In order to help the trades’ expectations. the trade (particularly small and medium-sized enterprises) reduce the associated cost, the bureau Promoting business facilitation and concerned finally decided to allow the traders to smart regulation culture provide a photocopy of their Business Registration From the annual action plans submitted by Certificate instead. B/Ds, it is pleasing to note that most departments have attached much importance to cultivating a Managing the expectations of trades business facilitation and smart regulation culture. Other than considering business compliance They actively participate in Business Liaison Groups, costs, B/Ds also have to constantly improve their conduct customer satisfaction surveys to understand services to meet the trades’ increasing aspirations. the needs of the trades, appoint Business Facilitation B/Ds are therefore also encouraged to better Officers, and provide training courses and workshops manage the expectations of trades. How can to help staff improve their customer service skills. B/Ds manage the trades’ expectations? One should In seminars for new recruits organised by the Civil always bear in mind that the trades’ expectations are Service Training and Development Institute, business ever changing and increasing. B/Ds thus may need facilitation and smart regulation are included in to go an extra mile in order to improve their services. the induction training agenda. Over the past four years, six business facilitation culture-related articles For instance, the performance pledges on have been published in the Civil Service Newsletter. licence applications were once highly regarded by At the recent experience sharing and refresher the trades. Now, they are simply regarded as basic workshops, it was also noticed that frontline staff services. B/Ds therefore have to be innovative in and their supervisors of licensing departments were further enhancing their services, such as providing increasingly more receptive to the need for business fast-track application processing, e-payment and facilitation and smart regulation. e-tracking systems. B/Ds may need to monitor market trends and explore whether it is feasible The EABFU and the Efficiency Unit will continue to accommodate the trades’ non-conventional to provide support and advice to all B/Ds on the applications from time to time in order to enable formulation and implementation of business them to seize new business opportunities. For facilitation and smart regulation measures. As long example, some departments concerned have as we believe in business facilitation and smart exercised their own discretion to allow cinemas to regulation and maintain effective communications broadcast live football matches and ice skating rinks with the trades, we can devise more pragmatic to hold wedding ceremonies based on the individual measures to facilitate business compliance with merits of each application. government regulations. 17 accountability for decisions and actions accountability for decisions and actions accountability for decisions and actions Pensioners’ Corner accountability for decisions and actions Entire career as a civil servant for the former Commissioner of Inland Revenue
Civil Service Newsletter Editorial Board
For the former Commissioner of Inland Revenue, Mrs Alice Lau Mak Yee-ming, the only job she ever wanted was to work in the civil service. So much so, that she never applied to work anywhere else! Having retired for a few years, Mrs Lau recalls her career and the departmental changes over the last four decades.
Mrs Lau recalling the good times she shared with colleagues during her years at IRD.
“I studied economics and accounting at the around 3,000. We also have far more ladies working University of Hong Kong,” says Mrs Lau. “The newly in the department, i.e. less than a dozen female established Faculty of Social Sciences was actually officers previously, comparing to more than half of very hard to get into as it was new and places were IRD staff as females now. Moreover, IRD collects over in high demand. But for me it was all about studying 60% of the general revenue of Hong Kong, which is something new and meeting new challenges.” a very important mission of the department.”
“People always ask me if I have a particular Mrs Lau further adds that for her, the greatest talent for numbers, I do not think so. However, I do change at IRD relates to the service culture and the have an analytical mind and can look at issues from transformation of services provided for citizens. a wider perspective. This is the basis of economics.” “When I started working at IRD, people came to It is the civil service … or nothing! our office seeking for help in relation to taxation. Most “With my academic background, I could have of them were very nervous as it was a bureaucratic got a job in big companies easily,” explains Mrs Lau. place in those days and people did not know what to “However, I always wanted to be a civil servant, so expect when they had to come and see us.” I did not even bother applying for any other jobs except the ones in the civil service.” “I take pride in the change of the mindset of IRD staff in fostering a more customer-focused “I enjoy serving the public,” continues Mrs Lau. service culture. We started delivering services at “I also believe in the application of knowledge. If the taxpayers’ convenience and thus IRD received you only talk without applying your knowledge, you numerous customer service awards. In 2005-06, never get anything done. With my background and IRD was awarded a 10-year Grand Award by training I considered that I was very suitable to work the Ombudsman in recognition of our fair and at Inland Revenue Department (IRD) and it turned unflinching dedication and performance over the out to be an excellent decision.” past decade.”
Evolution of IRD “When you are doing tax-related work, you are never popular,” explains Mrs Lau. “This award “Looking back over my years at IRD, one of the acknowledges the high standard that is observed changes is that IRD is a much bigger department by IRD staff and their provision of exemplary now,” says Mrs Lau. “When I started working at IRD, services over the last ten years.” we had around 1,000 officers and now there are 18 accountability for decisions and actions accountability for decisions and actions accountability for decisions and actions accountability for decisions and actions accountability for decisions and actions Pensioners’ Corner
Information technology and a taxpayer,” says Mrs Lau. “At the time, IRD only knowledge allowed digital signatures, which was a very complicated yet secure process. But I thought that “Another notable change during my time at IRD if you could go to a bank and use a pin number relates to the application of information technology to withdraw money, we could use the same system. and knowledge,” says Mrs Lau. “In my early days, Risk has to be commensurate with convenience. I was given the job of rewriting the salary tax I had quite a hard time in explaining this situation computer system. In the past, if a citizen came to IRD at the Legislative Council, but eventually we got the and the staff could not find his file, they simply could support of using pin numbers for authentication.” not follow up with his case. With the assistance of technology, you may now simply call up IRD, provide “In general, I think the introduction of your ID number and they can immediately access your electronic services has not only proven convenient file and discuss whatever issue you wish to address.” for everyone, but it also promotes a greater understanding of the many services we provide “I also put forward the idea of a paperless office through accessing the IRD website.” because IRD was a heavy paper user at that time. We started the transformation from a paper-based Addressing tax avoidance to a paperless operation.” “In relation to tax avoidance, I established “Also, I am proud of devising a service strategy dedicated teams to crack down on tax avoidance called ‘EEC’, which means that the tax information with a view to closing the loopholes in the tax laws,” must be ‘Easy to understand’, the tax returns explains Mrs Lau. “The legislation became enacted in must be ‘Easy to complete’ and we shall be 2004 and that year we collected much more revenue!” ‘Communicating with taxpayers’,” continues Mrs Lau. “That is why I hired some consultants to review and “In relation to the international tax treaty, this is rewrite our standard letters and forms, which were also something that has changed during my 39 years rather bureaucratic and hard to comprehend, into at IRD,” explains Mrs Lau. “Hong Kong operates a something simpler and easier to understand. Take territorial source tax system which means that IRD the tax return form as an example. It is a form which only taxes Hong Kong income, not global income. most taxpayers have to fill out. If it is not simple and If you are a local resident, you do not have to worry comprehensible, the compliance rate will be low. We about any overseas income. If you are an overseas addressed this issue by revamping it.” resident, you only have to pay tax on your income earned here. Whilst the incidence of double taxation “We also publicise our penalty policy, appeal is small, with Hong Kong becoming an international procedures, tax review and related information to city and also a springboard into China, we keep increase transparency for all stakeholders. This also revamping our system to make sure that people are facilitates the tax practitioners to file reasonable fairly taxed.” taxation returns.”
“Also, nowadays there are two calculations listed on tax demand notices – the standard rate and the progressive rate. People are happy when they see that IRD has really paid efforts in doing something from the public’s angle.”
“In relation to the introduction of electronic taxation services, there was a big debate in 2004-05 regarding the Mrs Lau with Dr Polly Cheung Suk-yee at the Hong Kong Breast Cancer Foundation’s eighth authentication process for validating annual walkathon “Pink Walk for Breast Health 2012”. 19 accountability for decisions and actions accountability for decisions and actions accountability for decisions and actions Pensioners’ Corner accountability for decisions and actions
Life beyond IRD Awarded the Silver Bauhinia Star for her exemplary and dedicated service to the Government and the Hong Kong community, Mrs Lau retired as the Commissioner of Inland Revenue after serving the Government for 39 years.
“One of the first things I did when I retired was to establish a scholarship at a university in Hong Kong,” says Mrs Lau. “I wanted to give something back to this society that has been so good and generous to me. Encouraging further studies to those who may not afford to study at university seemed an ideal thing Mrs Lau visiting Myanmar and its wonderful temple complexes. to do.” “Myanmar is a fascinating country and I was lucky enough to have really travelled by cruise to Certainly not idle in retirement, Mrs Lau is Mandalay,” says Mrs Lau. “I felt as if I had stepped an advisor to both the Association of Women into the pages of the book I had read many years Accountants (Hong Kong) Limited and the Hong ago – a truly inspiring place.” Kong Breast Cancer Foundation apart from providing voluntary services to a number of organisations. “I am also a golfer. It is a very good game as you However, her greatest love is travelling. are only in competition with yourself most of the time. It is also a very sociable game and you can play “I love travelling and have been lucky enough to anywhere in the world, so it is perfect for a traveller have travelled to many places since my retirement,” like me.” states Mrs Lau enthusiastically. “Travelling provides you with a wider perspective. I love travelling with Prepare for retirement either my husband or my friends.” So what words of wisdom, if any, does Mrs Lau have for those facing retirement? Mrs Lau states that she has been very impressed by Iran, especially the friendliness and warmth of “People need to prepare for retirement,” says the Iranians. Mrs Lau. “Some are not prepared psychologically. When they retire, they find that they have nothing “If the only image you have about a place to do. Men often encounter this problem more than is what you see on TV, then you would have no women, as women have done all the other things accurate idea of what the country or the people are associated with raising a family, but men often have actually like. Iranians are very friendly people and the work only.” the Persian architecture throughout the country is quite spectacular.” “My advice is to get involved in your community, do some charity work and pursue things that interest Mrs Lau said she was also thrilled to have you while you are still working. When you retire, visited Mandalay in Myanmar, an old favourite you will be able to concentrate even more on the city since her youth when, like so many others, activities and interests that you have developed over she fell under the spell of the book The Road Past the years. Retirement will be a very active, happy Mandalay by John Masters. and sociable time for you.”
20 dedication, professionalism and diligence in serving the community accountability for decisions and actions dedication, professionalism and diligence in serving the community dedication, professionalism and diligence in serving the community Personalities Volunteer service reaps its own rewards Immigration Department Volunteer Work Team
Established in June 2002, the Immigration Department Volunteer Work Team (the Team) currently comprises a total of 581 members of the Immigration grade staff, civilian staff and retired colleagues. With the objective of encouraging colleagues to perform volunteer work and serve the community in their spare time, the Team also promotes collaboration and communication among colleagues of different grades within the department. A group of mobility-challenged elderlies from Ho Shing Home for the Elderly enjoying a visit back to their old home town, Tai O and reminiscing about the “good old days” with other former residents.
Since its establishment, the Team has provided members build good friendships with the service over 700 volunteer services to children, elderly, recipients and gain much happiness from helping people with disabilities and intellectual impairment people. Our members were most impressed by an and so on at more than 70 social welfare service activity held at a swimming pool where a group units. These services included fund-raising activities, of 10 cerebral palsy sufferers helped one another outdoor activities, environmental protection earnestly. Those with milder symptoms took the campaigns as well as lending support to other initiative to help the acute patients step in and activities and events where necessary. out of the pool, showing the spirit of mutual help and teamwork. These sufferers do not complain The Team wins the Gold Certificate for Volunteer about their condition. Instead they strive to acquire Service (Organisations) awarded by the Social some basic skills to overcome the difficulties. Their Welfare Department every year, which is not only optimism in the face of difficulties wins our respect. a great encouragement to the Team but also full recognition of the efforts made by every member. As government staff, we can try sparing some In 2011, the Team recorded a total of 9,628 of our time to participate service hours contributed by 309 volunteers. Among in volunteer service. Let’s them, 38 members received the Gold, Silver or work together for a more Bronze Certificate for Volunteer Service (Individual), harmonious society. five received the Long Service Award (10 Years), and two received the Long Service Award (5 Years).
Our team members meet different service The Immigration Department recipients and provide assistance to them Volunteer Work Team’s having regard to their specific needs during the “Better Life Because of YOU” poster showing the happiness volunteer service. Through regular visits, our of joining volunteer service. 21 impartiality in the execution of public functions impartiality in the execution of public functions
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Effective time management: squeezing that extra hour out of each day Staff Relations Division, Civil Service Bureau
Ka-ming has found it increasingly stressful at work lately, and he thinks maybe he just faces too much work and too many pressing deadlines. Worse still, it seems that the busier he is at work, the more easily things seem to go wrong – the computer is not working, the printer is out of ink, the photocopier has paper jams, the document that needs to be handled urgently never arrives and so on. Have you met the same heaps of troubles like Ka-ming?
This combination of mishaps triggers Ka-ming’s whirling in the mind of Ka-ming, who could not help negative emotions, resulting in grumbling (“There is asking, “Why can’t I manage my time as effectively not enough time!”), regret (“Why didn’t I make it as other people do?” clear to my boss in the first place that the deadline he set couldn’t be met?”), anger (Why did my boss Time management give me this urgent assignment on top of what I In order to help himself, Ka-ming first has to already have in hand?”), and envy (“Why am I the understand the crux of his problem and also be very only one busy working while the other staff stand clear as to the true meaning of time management. idle?”). Overwhelmed by the bad feelings brought What is time management? It is a concept involving: on by the problems he encounters at work, Ka-ming • Accomplishing as many important tasks as is further annoyed by the thought that he could not possible within a limited time; assist his son in primary five to prepare for the internal • Making use of limited resources and managing examination for secondary school place allocations based on opportunity cost; in the coming year. He feels deeply frustrated, and nothing seems to be going right. • Re-evaluation of personal values; and • Improvement of organisation skills and character. Everybody gets 24 hours a day, but why can other people seemingly lead efficient lives and finish Based on the above definition, time management their jobs so effectively? Everybody is preoccupied is simply the “art of distribution”, just as economics with their work and families and so is Ka-ming, but tells us that “human desires are infinite but resources why can the others make productive use of the 24 are finite”. This may also reflect how many of our hours each day to take care of their work and families colleagues feel about having not enough time. Thus, properly when he cannot? These are the questions there are four strategies to better manage our time:
22 impartiality in the execution of public functions impartiality in the execution of public functions impartiality in the execution of public functions impartiality in the execution of public functions impartiality in the execution of public functions impartiality in the execution of public functions Health
The four strategies Making use of technology – there are many examples of making appropriate use of technology • First things first: “Complete the most important in our daily lives, like using e-banking services or tasks first, followed by those that are less smartphone applications to save time. We can also important”. make use of the intranet or computer software • Do things with the most leveraging effect: as the as appropriate to duly complete our tasks more saying goes: “Give us the tools, and we will finish effectively so that we can pay attention to more the job”. Good preparation is essential before important things. starting a job. To achieve the goal with less effort, manpower and resources have to be properly Appropriate delegation of work – by allocated, work priorities have to be determined, appropriately handing over some of our work to and duplicated steps have to be removed. other colleagues or family members, we can get • Don’t regret your decision: some decisions are more free time. irreversible, so think twice before making a decision. Once a decision is made, commit to it Making effective use of potential labour and work towards the goal. force – if you are living with your retired parents, • Be focused and organised: when jobs are you can count on them as potential labour force overwhelming, it is inevitable to deal with more and ask them to perform simple household than one task at a time. Set a timetable for matters for you. You can also review the staffing different jobs and complete them in an orderly arrangements in the office and find out if there is manner to get things done. any potential labour force to take up new tasks or prepare for the unexpected. How to get 25 hours out of each day? Making good use of idle time – although Hong Kong is a small place, it often takes us more Here are five more tips for you to achieve than an hour to travel between our home and “25 hours a day” both in daily life and at work: office, leaving us with much idle time. Suppose a single trip takes an hour, then two hours will be Buying time – there is a saying that “a speck spent daily on travelling alone. Apart from playing of time is more precious than an ounce of gold”. video games or reading newspapers, you can also Many of us may have experienced buying time in our make smart use of the travelling time by planning daily lives, such as hiring domestic helpers to do the and organising your work, replying to work-related household chores which are time consuming, so that enquiries or your friends’ invitations and so on. After we can concentrate on other household tasks, and arriving at the office or home, you can then proceed taking a taxi to reduce the time spent in traffic. Some to do other tasks. of our work may require assistance and advice from other divisions or departments. Before undertaking With systematic time planning and management, such task, it is better to inform the other parties of you will soon find out that there are indeed more your requests through emails or letters in advance in than 24 hours a day. order to buy time while doing the other tasks, instead of simply spending time in waiting for the reply. (Acknowledgement: Christian Family Service Centre)
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Snack Nutritional Classification Wizard
Department of Health
Healthy snacks for big and small Snack “ABC” contains less fat, but snack “EFG” has less salt. Which one should I choose? Faced with so many difficult choices every day, don’t you feel frustrated sometimes?
Here comes the good news: the Department of Health has It is important to choose launched an iPhone application called “Snack Nutritional Classification HEALTHY snacks! Wizard” to help you make healthier choices! Some people misunderstand that snacks do not have a great impact on Just key in a product’s information as their health, as long as their main meals stated on its food label and the Wizard will are healthy, they do not bother to then indicate whether a product is “red: think about what kinds of snacks they snacks to choose less”, “yellow: snacks to consume. However, eating unhealthy choose in moderation”, or “green: snacks snacks, even a medium-sized pack of of choice”. potato chips and a can of soft drink every week for one year can lead to a weight gain of 2 kg (5 lbs) when the extra energy is not expended and is stored as fat in our body (please see photo below)! Therefore, do not underestimate the long-term effects of unhealthy snacks on our health. We should choose healthier snacks!
Only 3 simple steps cm 12
Simply download the programme free of charge by scanning the QR code above or accessing the internet version at “EatSmart@ school.hk” Campaign’s thematic website (http://school.eatsmart. 38 cm gov.hk), and then choose healthier snack options for yourself and your family!
24 political neutrality political neutrality impartiality in the execution of public functions political neutrality political neutrality political neutrality Basic Law Seminars and photo competition in celebrating the 15th anniversary of reunification Civil Service Training and Development Institute Civil Service Bureau
TO celebrate the 15th anniversary of Hong Kong’s reunification with the Mainland, the Civil Service Training and Development Institute (CSTDI) of the Civil Service Bureau organised a series of thematic seminars scheduled from June to November this year, plus a wide range of promotional activities to review the implementation of the Basic Law in Hong Kong and to look forward to its future. In the past few months, we invited scholars and experts from both the Mainland and Hong Kong to speak at these seminars and to share with us their analyses Professor Jiang Shigong of the Law School of Peking University hosting a seminar “Implementing the Basic of the past and future development of the Basic Law since its Law 15 years on: challenges and future outlook” on June 21, 2012. implementation in Hong Kong from different perspectives.
Regarding promotional activities, Thematic seminar Speaker Brief description CSTDI held a Basic Law photography 1. Basic Law and Professor • Provisions in the Basic Law relating to judicial review competition – “Life in Hong Kong: judicial review Benny • Impact of judicial review on the executive authorities (May 29, 2012) Tai Yiu-ting 15 years after reunification” – so that • Future development of judicial review • Analyses of landmark cases of judicial review civil servants who are also enthusiastic 2. Implementing the Professor • Structure of the state and the Basic Law photographers could demonstrate their Basic Law 15 years Jiang • Disputes over the Basic Law and its interpretation photographic skills. on: challenges and Shigong by the Standing Committee of the National People’s future outlook Congress (June 21, 2012) • Hong Kong’s constitutional development and Colleagues were invited to illustrate integration with the Mainland the successful implementation of the 3. The implementation, Ms Elsie • The origin and legal basis of “one country, development and Leung Oi-sie two systems” Basic Law and its contribution to Hong opportunities of • Relationship and cohesion between “one country” Kong’s prosperity and stability over the “one country, and “two systems” two systems” • The implementation and development outlook of the past 15 years through camera lenses. (September 5, 2012) Basic Law under different regulatory regimes Participants were required to submit 4. Decoding the Ms Maria • Drafting and promulgation of the Basic Law and three photos and select a provision of Basic Law Tam Wai-chu Hong Kong’s reunification with the Mainland the Basic Law as the theme of their (November 23, 2012) • Basic Law – the source of Hong Kong’s progress and development entries, with an introduction of about • Basic Law – opportunities and challenges for Hong Kong 100 to 200 words explaining the relationship between their photos and the particular Department of Justice, the Information Services Basic Law provision and theme they had selected to Department and the Photographic Society of Hong focus on. Kong has started assessing the entries. The first, second, third and merit prize winners would be The deadline for submissions was the end selected by the Working Group on Civil Servants of of August and an adjudication panel comprising the Basic Law Promotion Steering Committee from representatives from the Basic Law Unit of the the shortlisted entries. 25 dedication, professionalism and diligence in serving the community dedication, professionalism and diligence in serving the community Information dedication, professionalism and diligence in serving the community
CLC Plus – 10 years of online learning
Civil Service Training and Development Institute Civil Service Bureau
THE history of the Cyber Learning Centre Plus (CLC Plus) dates back to September 2002, when it was officially launched to feature a variety of learning resources and training information.
Different designs of welcome page and homepage of CLC Plus over the last decade.
Since then, we have worked to enrich the training resources content and enhance the functions and layout of our portal to promote online learning in the civil service. The subject categories of the portal have now increased from 9 to 14, ranging from language, management and information technology to national studies and work-life balance and so on. We provide learning resources in the form of web courses, video clips, Bite-sized handy tips and short videos are right at your fingertips. book summaries online, handy tips, training information, theme-based portals, etc. Capitalising CLC Plus has been very well received by our on the latest technology available, we also went fellow colleagues, as demonstrated by the results of mobile last year. Users can now easily make use our 2012 User Online Survey, in which over 97% of of their mobile devices to learn at their own pace respondents indicated that they are satisfied with anytime, anywhere. the learning portal in general.
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There is a great variety of learning resources on CLC Plus.
“Easy Sign-on to CLC Plus” to members upon their completion of web resources This autumn, to celebrate the 10th anniversary or participation in related learning activities. of CLC Plus, we have launched the “Easy Sign-on Members who have satisfied the requirements of to CLC Plus” initiative in four pilot departments, the Scheme will have a chance to win book coupons namely, the Customs and Excise Department, the and certificates of recognition. Census and Statistics Department, the Correctional Services Department and the Fire Services Department. Their staff may now enter CLC Plus direct via the Departmental Portal (DP) Intranet. Neither an Internet connection nor prior member A new look for CLC Plus registration is required. With just a simple click welcome page onto the DP and colleagues can surf handy job Last but not least, to mark our first decade, the aids and the latest training and development CLC Plus welcome page has been refreshed with a information. The responses from the pilot new logo and a more attractive appearance, easier departments are encouraging. We will invite more navigation and greater accessibility to learning bureaux / departments to implement this initiative resources. You will find that the new CLC Plus upon the completion of this pilot programme. welcome page is now content-focused and comes with a wide variety of regularly updated learning “Learning Credits Scheme” – tips, videos and useful information. learning is fun! To further promote online learning and reward If you are not yet a member, act now and those particularly serious e-learners, we have also join us at www.csb.gov.hk/clc for a new learning introduced the “Learning Credits Scheme” this year. experience! For any enquiries, please contact us at Under the Scheme, Learning Credits will be awarded 2231 3921 or 2231 3889.
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National studies courses in Nanjing and Zhejiang Civil Service Training and Development Institute, Civil Service Bureau
Since the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the social, political, economic and legal systems of the country have undergone tremendous changes in just a few decades. As middle-ranking civil servants often have opportunities to collaborate with the Campus of Zhejiang University. Participants of Course No. 1 of Nanjing Mainland authorities, it is important for University national studies programme. them to be familiar with national affairs and regional development. Since 2006, the Civil Service Training and Development Institute (CSTDI) has commissioned Sun Yat-sen University and the Shenzhen Graduate School of Peking University to provide national studies courses for middle-ranking officers in the HKSAR Government and so far more than 1,400 participants have taken the courses.
To broaden participants’ understanding of the Zhejiang University national key regions in the country, CSTDI has commissioned studies programme two prominent institutions in the Yangtze River Delta, Zhejiang University is situated in Hangzhou, the namely Nanjing University and Zhejiang University, provincial capital of Zhejiang Province. Internationally to conduct national studies courses for middle- renowned for its picturesque scenery, Hangzhou has ranking civil servants commencing September 2012. also been ranked as the best Chinese city for doing In addition to classroom lessons, visits and trips business by Forbes Magazine for a couple of years on related topics with professors offering on-site in a row. Following the city’s rapid development in explanations have also been incorporated into the recent years, many successful start-ups have been courses, so that participants will have an opportunity established in Hangzhou. In view of these distinctive to know about the history and development of the features of the city, the course has incorporated study country from different dimensions and perspectives. visits to famous enterprises and natural reserves. Furthermore, a number of unique elements have Through these visits, participants will explore been added to the respective courses having regard Zhejiang’s economy and the entrepreneurship of to the distinctive features of the cities where the two Zhejiang’s businessmen, and understand how to universities are located. strike a balance between economic development and environmental conservation. Nanjing University national studies programme To create an effective learning environment, Nanjing University is situated in the heart of participants are divided into groups. Prior to Nanjing city, which was the ancient capital of six completion of the programme, each group has to dynasties between the third and sixth centuries. discuss, summarise, share and give a presentation The city is rich in historic and cultural traditions and on what they have learned in a particular subject has witnessed tremendous changes in the history of area. Nanjing University and Zhejiang University each modern China. In this regard, study trips on historic organises two programmes for us this year. The first and cultural themes have been specifically designed to batch of programmes was successfully completed incorporate in-depth study of the development of the in September and October. The next batch would country and Nanjing. By engaging in this exploration commence in November and December. of history, participants are expected to gain a more thorough understanding of the country’s current 28 development and contemporary world affairs. dedication, professionalism and diligence in serving the community dedication, professionalism and diligence in serving the community dedication, professionalism and diligence in serving the community Information
News from Civil Service Bureau
Saturday specialist out-patient services at Queen Mary Hospital Civil Service Bureau
In addition to the 9H Specialist Clinic (9HSC) for civil service eligible persons (CSEPs) at Prince of Wales Hospital (PWH), which commenced operation in March 2012, extra specialist out-patient (SOP) services sessions for CSEPs are now available on Saturday mornings at Queen Mary Hospital (QMH).
With effect from September 1, 2012, QMH will provide general SOP services in four specialties to CSEPs, including gynaecology, medicine, orthopaedics & traumatology, and surgery. CSEPs who have made an appointment for the first consultation for general SOP services at a Hospital Authority SOP clinic (other than 9HSC at PWH) may opt to utilise the Saturday SOP services at QMH. Please refer to the memo issued by the Civil Service Bureau (CSB) under ref. (19) in PC/700/000/136 Pt.3 on July 30, 2012, or visit CSB’s website (http://www.csb.gov.hk/english/admin/benefits/63.html) for detailed arrangements.
The Chief Executive appoints Under Secretaries Name Post Effective from Julia Leung Fung-yee Under Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury July 1, 2012 Florence Hui Hiu-fai Under Secretary for Home Affairs July 1, 2012 Christine Loh Kung-wai Under Secretary for the Environment September 12, 2012 Yau Shing-mu Under Secretary for Transport and Housing September 15, 2012 John Lee Ka-chiu Under Secretary for Security October 1, 2012 Sophia Chan Under Secretary for Food and Health November 1, 2012 Kevin Yeung Yun-hung Under Secretary for Education November 5, 2012
Senior staff on the move Name Post Effective from Kitty Choi Kit-yu Director of Administration July 16, 2012 Kenneth Mak Ching-yu Director-General of Trade and Industry July 16, 2012 Elizabeth Tse Man-yee Permanent Secretary for Financial Services and July 25, 2012 the Treasury (Treasury) Bernadette Linn Hon-ho Director of Lands July 31, 2012 Michael Vernon Stone Permanent Representative of the Hong Kong Special September 25, 2012 Administrative Region (HKSAR) of China to the World Trade Organization (WTO) Susie Ho Shuk-yee Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Economic October 8, 2012 Development (Communications and Technology) Ingrid Yeung Ho Poi-yan Commissioner for Transport October 8, 2012 Linda Lai Wai-ming Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and October 16, 2012 Trade Affairs to the European Union Mary Chow Shuk-ching Land Registrar November 12, 2012 29 dedication, professionalism and diligence in serving the community dedication, professionalism and diligence in serving the community Information dedication, professionalism and diligence in serving the community
Dedicated OHCs – an ideal choice for Government employees suffering from injury on duty or occupational diseases Civil Service Bureau
THE Government has established in Hospital Authority (HA) two Occupational Health Centres (OHCs) to provide dedicated medical services for Government employees suffering from injury on duty (IOD) or occupational diseases (OD). The two OHCs – one in Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) and one in Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital (PYNEH) – provide services ranging from immediate to follow-up medical treatment, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy and simple wound management, exclusively for Government employees suffering from IOD or OD. We wish to share with you here two success Professional OHC staff instructing patients in appropriate exercises and treatments. stories of using OHC services.
Case one During his treatment, the patient felt anxious The injured colleague was a police officer and and expressed great concern that his injury might had sustained injuries to his right ankle ligaments affect his career as a police officer and that he whilst on duty. would not be able to return to work.
“The officer came to us with a sprained right “In addressing his concern, our case manager ankle. His case was quite serious and he was provided professional counselling to help him diagnosed as having multiple torn right ankle overcome his fear and to guide him through this ligaments,” says Doctor Wong of OHC in PYNEH. difficult time,” says Doctor Wong. “In addition to “We provided him with a one-stop treatment by physical treatment, our professional OHC team a professional team consisting of occupational also provided mental support to him and helped medicine physician, orthopedic surgeon, case him regain confidence in relation to returning to manager, physiotherapist and occupational work.” At present, he is still receiving rehabilitation therapist. This one-stop service was very convenient treatment a few times a week and is expected to be for him and saved him from any unnecessary able to return to normal duties shortly. ankle pain that may have resulted from travelling between different departments for treatment.”
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The colleague commented that OHC has Apart from new cases, colleagues suffering comprehensive facilities to help Government from IOD/OD who have started follow-up treatment employees suffering from IOD/OD recover and one at regular HA/DH facilities may also opt to use the does not have to wait for a long time before being OHC services within three months from the date of attended by a doctor. He also praised the fact that confirmed IOD/OD. OHC staff are friendly. Appointments with OHCs can be made by fax, Case two telephone or in person. Please refer to the Civil The injured colleague was a postman with a Service Bureau Circular No. 8/2011 for details of history of multiple episodes of IOD, and suffered OHC services and arrangements. from chronic elbow, shoulder and back pain. This time, he re-injured his right elbow, shoulder and OHC in QEH OHC in PYNEH back while performing his work duties. Telephone 2958 5760 2595 7172 number: “His injury was diagnosed as having a medium Fax number: 2958 5790 2505 8305 degree of severity,” says Doctor Wong. “When the patient came to us, we immediately initiated intensive physiotherapy to alleviate his pain. Later on we gave him various conditioning and strengthening exercises to do for his pre-existing musculoskeletal problems. In addition to treating his pain and muscle weakness, our occupational physician, occupational therapist and case manager also performed a detailed work assessment for him, trying to identify the root cause of his repeated injuries. We taught him the proper way to tackle his tasks safely and also formulated tailor-made exercises to help protect him from further injury.”
Since receiving treatment from the OHC, the colleague’s chronic pain over different parts of body has improved greatly and he has become more confident in doing his work. He is now fully recovered and has resumed normal duties.
The colleague approached OHC on the suggestion of his supervisor. He also learnt that OHC provides one-stop, multi-disciplinary services using the latest rehabilitation equipment to help Government employees suffering from IOD/OD State-of-the-art equipment and dedicated OHC staff ensuring patients’ recover more speedily. rapid recovery.
31 中華人民共和國成立六十三周年慶典 Ceremonies marked the 63rd Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China