The Government announced today that if the epidemic situation does not rebound, government departments will resume public services gradually from April 1 with a view to largely resuming normal services from April 21.

Noting that the epidemic situation is on a downward trend, the Government said its departments are ready for the gradual resumption of public services.

Due to the restrictions of the anti-epidemic regulations, and given that bureaus and departments need to mobilise manpower and resources to fight the epidemic, certain non-emergency or non-essential services may be resumed at a later time.

Moreover, as there may be a higher demand for public services at the beginning of the gradual resumption of public services, a longer time may be needed for to process applications.

Additionally, government departments will exercise discretion in continuing the suspension of face to face delivery services and instead provide these services through online channels, post, drop-in boxes or other suitable means.

Members of the public who have to visit government buildings or offices should wear surgical masks and comply with the infection control measures implemented by the relevant departments, including the use of the LeaveHomeSafe mobile app, temperature checks and crowd control.

Noting that battling the epidemic is still the top priority and most important task, the Government said it will mobilise all available manpower and resources for this purpose.

All government employees have to stand ready and participate in anti-epidemic work when called upon by their departments, irrespective of their original and usual duties, it added.

Meanwhile, all employers in Hong Kong are advised to continue to allow staff members to work from home as far as possible and resume normal operations in a gradual and orderly manner in accordance with the timeline for the phased relaxation of the social distancing measures.