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The Commander of the People's Liberation Army Hong Kong Garrison, Major General Zhang Shibo today (July 3) commended the Correctional Services Department (CSD) for being a well-trained, well-disciplined and an outstanding disciplined service.
Speaking at a passing-out parade at the department's Staff Training Institute, Major General Zhang said that as an integral part of the Hong Kong criminal justice system, CSD had spared no effort in providing comprehensive custodial and rehabilitative services over the years. The professionalism and distinguished performance of the correctional staff had won the trust and admiration of the community, he said.
"The department has implemented short-term and long-term measures such as the institution regrouping project, redeployment of resources and the redevelopment project of Lo Wu Correctional Institution."
On the department's rehabilitate service, Major General Zhang said,"CSD has worked tirelessly to promote community acceptance and support for the re-integration of rehabilitated offenders into society. Many religious groups and Non-Government Organisations have joined with the department in the provision of rehabilitative services while more and more people are engaged in helping offender rehabilitation."
He also commended correctional staff for their enthusiasm in using their spare time to engage in charitable activities despite their busy and demanding work. The CSD was awarded the "Caring Organisation Logo" for the fourth consecutive year by the Hong Kong Council of Social Service and was presented with the "Total Caring Award" last year.
Major General Zhang encouraged the passing-out officers to uphold the professionalism of the department and to deliver high-standard custodial and rehabilitation services for building a more harmonious and integrating society in Hong Kong.
A total of 54 officers and 72 assistant officers II participating in the passing-out ceremony completed demanding training of 23 to 26 weeks. Among them, two top officers were awarded the Principal's Shield and three top assistant officers II were awarded the Golden Whistle.
Ends/Friday, July 3, 2009
Issued at HKT 19:34
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