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The Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, today (November 25) inspected the passing-out parade cum Golden Jubilee Grand Parade at the Immigration Service Institute of Training and Development in Tuen Mun.
He praised the Immigration Department for serving the public on the front line with dedication and diligence since its inception in 1961.
"The department keeps abreast of the times and is innovative in making travelling easier. We have witnessed the development of the smart identity card and the biometric HKSAR passport, and the implementation of the Express e-Channel, an automated passenger clearance system," Mr Tsang said.
"In the face of ever-increasing passenger flow, the department has revolutionised and enhanced the clearance capacity and service quality at various control points with the use of advanced information technology. The number of inbound and outbound passengers was over 240 million last year."
To tie in with the national plan and the development of the Pearl River Delta, the Immigration Department has already drawn up plans for new control points, such as those at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, Liangtang/Heung Yuen Wai and the new cruise terminal, to get fully prepared for the commissioning of these facilities.
"These words sum up the department's contributions to Hong Kong over the past 50 years: effective immigration control, customer-oriented services and outstanding achievements," Mr Tsang said.
"In response to increasing public demand and higher expectations for government services in recent years, the department spares no effort in its pursuit of excellence. This year, Gold Awards in two categories under the Civil Service Outstanding Service Award Scheme went to the Immigration Task Force and the Assistance to Hong Kong Residents Unit in recognition of their exceptional accomplishments."
Mr Tsang called on the passing-out officers to uphold the department's fine traditions by serving the community with dedication and providing world-class public services with integrity.
Taking part in today's parade were 173 officers, including 131 Immigration Officer graduates and 42 trainees under tactical training.
Ends/Friday, November 25, 2011
Issued at HKT 19:10
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