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The Highways Department today (April 3) confirmed that five staff members were being investigated by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) in relation to a suspected bribery case.
The department would fully co-operate with the ICAC in the investigation, a department spokesman said today. The department has suspended the staff concerned from duty, and reinforced audits on the related public works contracts.
"Companies involved in the case will also be investigated. We will consider subjecting them to regulatory action imposed by the Government with respect to public works contracts, which may include removal of convicted contractors from registered lists eligible for tendering for public works contracts. Regulatory action will also be taken against subcontractors convicted of corruption including removal from the site," the spokesman said.
"While the investigation is underway, it is inappropriate for the department to comment on the case."
The Highways Department believes it is very important to maintain the integrity of its staff. In addition to established guidelines, there is regular training to remind staff about misconduct and to enhance staff ethical standards. In this regard, the department held last year six workshops and two thematic talks during which examples taken from ICAC cases were highlighted.
"The department will not tolerate any malversation committed by staff members. Any staff member who is convicted of such offences will be subject to disciplinary proceedings which may include termination of employment," the spokesman said.
"We will continue to work closely with the ICAC and see how the existing procedures can be improved."
Ends/Friday, April 3, 2009
Issued at HKT 17:28
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