May 21, 2013

The first key step for the Steering Committee on Systemic Reform of the Marine Department is to examine vessel safety measures, including approval and inspection processes.
 
Speaking to the media after the committee’s first meeting was held today, Secretary for Transport & Housing Prof Anthony Cheung said the Government attaches great importance to the recommendations in the Report of the Commission of Inquiry into the Collision of Vessels near Lamma Island, and is committed to enhancing maritime safety through systemic reform of the Marine Department.
 
The committee will undertake a comprehensive review of passenger safety, local vessel regulation and inspection matters.
 
Other tasks include strengthening internal governance by reviewing the department's business processes, operational procedures and supervisory structure, and mapping out a strategy to address manpower shortages and training issues, he said.
 
The department has set up a task force to report progress regularly to the committee, and the new Deputy Director (Special Duties) heading the task force is also the secretary to the committee, which will also consult international maritime experts’ advice.
 
The committee will carry out its work in two phases, he said, first to improve the department’s procedures and operation, and then to focus on its systemic and structural aspects.
 
Prof Cheung expects the first phase will be completed within four to six months.
 
In addition, he said the Efficiency Unit will conduct a review of the department, appointing a management consultant to assist in its work.
 
Prof Cheung said the committee is determined to implement the improvement measures to restore public confidence.