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Following is a speech delivered today (Sunday) by Commissioner for Transport, Mr Robert Footman, at the Opening Ceremony of the 1999 Transport Day held at Victoria Park:

It is a great pleasure for me to officiate this ceremony particularly at a time when we are celebrating the coming of the Year 2000.

A safe, efficient and reliable transport system is essential to meet the transport needs of the community, and to facilitate the sustainable development of Hong Kong. Such a system depends on the concerted efforts made by transport operators, trade associations, Police and Transport Department. This eventful "Transport Day" is a good example of fruitful co-operation of these organisations. Promoting road safety requires continuous co-ordinated efforts and active participation of various parties. I am sure by enjoying different games, activities and exhibits in this "Transport Day" prepared by the participating organisations, members of the public will have a greater awareness of road safety.

Also on display today are the passenger transport facilities which will help improve air quality, and the new technologies in providing traffic information. I hope all of you will enjoy it.

Looking to the new challenges ahead, may I take this opportunity to share with members of the transport sectors the spirit of Transport Department's slogan "Benefiting the Community. Striving for Excellence". Let's work together to provide for the next millenium the world's best transport system, which is safe, reliable, efficient, environmentally friendly and satisfactory to users.

End/Sunday, December 5, 1999

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