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In response to media enquiries, a Marine Department spokesman said today (May 16) that the Director of Marine had expressed at the press conference on April 30 his deep sadness over the vessel collision incident near Lamma Island. The Director of Marine shared the same feelings as the Secretary for Transport and Housing, who felt sadness and regret over the incident. In regard to the causalities and deficiencies in the departmental system revealed in the incident, the Director of Marine still feels sadness and regret. The Director of Marine noted that the department had learnt a lesson from the incident. As the head of department, he is responsible and will closely supervise all staff to implement the improvement measures so as to ensure the safety of local passenger-carrying vessels and to address public concern.
The Marine Department has started an investigation on officers concerned in accordance with established procedures, and will carry it out in full speed. The report will be submitted to the Transport and Housing Bureau. Should the investigation find that the department has any maladministration or negligence in duty, it will be dealt with strictly in accordance with procedures. If a criminal issue is involved, it will be handled in accordance with legal procedures.
Ends/Thursday, May 16, 2013
Issued at HKT 20:10
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