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The Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Paul Tang, visited the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (June 25) to learn more about the work of the department and to take the opportunity to meet its staff.
Accompanied by the Permanent Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Raymond Wong, Mr Tang first met with the Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation, Mr Alan Wong, and the directorate staff. He was pleased to hear more about the AFCD's commitment to ensuring that the community can enjoy a reliable supply of safe and high-quality fresh food and a well-managed and conserved natural environment in Hong Kong.
Mr Tang started with a tour of the Hong Kong Herbarium under the Conservation Branch. The Hong Kong Herbarium is responsible for the systematic collection, identification and curation of specimens representative of the Hong Kong flora. It plays a significant role in supporting studies on taxonomy and ecology as well as conservation of the Hong Kong flora. Mr Tang noted that the Hong Kong Herbarium was established in 1878 and is the territory's most comprehensive herbarium, which has some 43 000 plant specimens for examination.
Later, Mr Tang visited the Endangered Species Resource Centre, where he was briefed by staff on the operation of the Centre. Composed of nine theme areas, the Centre displays some 600 specimens of about 200 endangered species, including various kinds of fur skins, leather products, Chinese medicines, plants and live animals. All of them were confiscated by the AFCD during operations. By displaying these specimens, the AFCD aims to enhance public awareness of the protection of endangered species.
Mr Tang then proceeded to the Import & Export Division to gain a better understanding of its duties. To prevent the introduction of animal diseases into Hong Kong, the import of animals is regulated through the control system operated by the AFCD. Under the system, individuals and companies are required to obtain a special permit for the import of each consignment of animals.
During his visit, Mr Tang met with staff representatives of various grades at a tea gathering to exchange views on relevant issues. He encouraged the staff members to continue to provide high-quality, efficient and professional services to the public.
Ends/Thursday, June 25, 2015
Issued at HKT 17:51
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