More than 160 fire and ambulance officers graduated from the Fire & Ambulance Services Academy today.

Legislative Council Panel on Security Chairman Chan Hak-kan reviewed the graduates - 25 station officers, 21 ambulance officers, 10 Mobilising & Communications Group senior firemen, 62 firemen and 46 ambulancemen.

He commended the Fire Services Department for its outstanding performance in safeguarding Hong Kong.

"With exceptional bravery and an unwavering spirit, the Fire Services Department personnel have been saving those in distress, regardless of danger or difficulty.

"Their selfless contributions and commitment, from generation to generation, have led a brigade of some 100 personnel to become today's elite force with international acclaim."

He encouraged the graduates to uphold the department's fine tradition and fulfil its mission of "Serving with courage, passion and commitment".

He added: "To tie in with the development of the Fire Services Department, the graduates also should pursue self-enhancement and enrich their professional knowledge as well as operational experience, with the aim of providing the community with top-notch fire and ambulance services."

The parade was followed by a demonstration of firefighting and rescue techniques by the graduates.

They will be posted to the Fire Services Communications Centre as well as various fire stations and ambulance depots.