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Following is a reply by the Secretary for Security, Mr Ambrose S K Lee, to a question by the Hon Leung Yiu-chung in the Legislative Council today (November 5):
Question:
Recently, a few firemen unfortunately died on duty at the fire scene. There have been comments that the existing fire-fighting equipment and facilities of the Fire Services Department ("FSD") are inadequate, and the salary of firemen is also lower than those of staff in other disciplined forces. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council whether the authorities will, in addition to purchasing breathing apparatus of new models and considering the replacement of the Fire Services Communication System, review and enhance other fire-fighting equipment and facilities of FSD, and review the salary of firemen; if so, when they will conduct such reviews and implement relevant enhancement measures; if not, of the reasons for that?
Reply:
President,
The Administration attaches great importance to the protective equipment and facilities provided to firemen. There are regular reviews and replacement exercises to ensure that firemen are adequately protected whilst carrying out rescue operations.
As regards protective equipment, the Fire Services Department (FSD) spent about HK$1.3 million in September 2008 to provide all frontline firemen with new anti-flash hoods that meet the latest international safety standard. In 2009, the Department will replace the breathing apparatuses used by firemen at fire scenes. The new breathing apparatuses will provide better protection against radiological, biological and chemical agents. They will also be equipped with more advanced electronic devices to give a clear indication of the amount of oxygen remaining in the cylinders. The new breathing apparatuses, which will cost about HK$45 million, are expected to be shipped to Hong Kong in the first half of 2009.
As for communications equipment, FSD purchased 53 radio sets at a total cost of about HK$960,000 in October 2008. Each major pump vehicle is now provided with an additional radio set. In order to further enhance the communication amongst frontline firemen, FSD has commissioned the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department to study the feasibility of upgrading the existing analog radio system and replacing it with a digital system with enhanced communication capabilities.
FSD understands the importance of providing firemen with safe and reliable equipment and facilities, and regards safety and reliabilities as the main factors of consideration in the purchase of new fire-fighting equipment. The Department will continue to maintain close dialogue with staff to understand their actual needs. It will also review the provision of protective equipment and facilities from time to time in the light of advanced products available in the international market, and make appropriate improvements so as to enhance the work safety of firemen and improve operational effectiveness.
Fireman is paid from points 2 to 13 of the General Disciplined Services (Rank and File) Pay Scale (GDS(R)); Senior Fireman from GDS(R)14 to 22; and Principal Fireman from GDS(R)23 to 27. The pay of the Fireman grade is comparable to (and not lower than) that for similar grades in the general disciplined services such as the Customs Officer, Ambulanceman and Officer II (Correctional Services).
The Standing Committee on Disciplined Services Salaries and Conditions of Service (Disciplined Services Committee) is conducting a grade structure review for the disciplined services, including the Fireman grade. The review will examine, among other things, whether the pay and conditions of service are appropriate and whether adjustments are called for. The Disciplined Services Committee aims to submit its recommendation to the Chief Executive by the end of 2008. Upon receipt of the Disciplined Services Committee's recommendations, the Civil Service Bureau will proceed to consult the departmental management concerned, the staff sides concerned, and the Public Service Panel of the Legislative Council. If the final recommendations were to include any proposed change in the civil service rank or pay structure, then subject to the decision of the Chief Executive-in-Council, we would seek the approval of the Establishment Subcommittee and the Finance Committee of the Legislative Council in accordance with the established practice.
Ends/Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Issued at HKT 12:12
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