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The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) held a meeting with the Hong Kong Government Lifeguards General Union (HKGLGU) today (September 4) to discuss the union's proposed request for the separation of lifeguards from the artisan grade.
Under the existing policy, a grade structure review must take into consideration two guiding principles, including having persistent and continuous difficulties in recruitment and retention of staff in the concerned grade and having a fundamental change in job nature and responsibilities. As the current artisan (beach/swimming pool) grade cannot fulfil these conditions at this juncture, there are not sufficient grounds to support a grade structure review for the separation of lifeguards from the artisan grade.
"The HKGLGU agreed to maintain communication and dialogue with the department. It plans to provide new and strong evidence and arguments meeting the above two guiding principles so that the LCSD will re-examine the proposal. Upon receipt of such information, the department will study them thoroughly and discuss with the union again before the end of this year. The LCSD is glad to see the HKGLGU's demonstration of professionalism in remaining steadfast in performing duties," a LCSD spokesman said.
The department appealed to lifeguard colleagues to place public interest and swimmers' safety first and remain steadfast in the provision of essential lifesaving services to the public.
The LCSD met with the HKGLGU today to discuss issues relating to lifeguard manpower, grade structure and qualification accreditation. The department will continue to maintain a close dialogue with the union to explore better options.
Ends/Thursday, September 4, 2014
Issued at HKT 21:10
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