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The Secretary for Security, Mr Ambrose SK Lee, praised the Fire Services Department for its efforts in providing efficient and quality emergency services for the public.

Accompanied by the Director of Fire Services, Mr Lam Chun-man, Mr Lee visited the Fire Services Headquarters Building and Tsim Tung Fire Station today (October 9).

He was briefed on the operation of the Fire Services Communication Centre and the latest development of the Third Generation Mobilising System, which will be commissioned early next year to provide a top command and control system for deployment of fire-fighting and ambulance resources.

Mr Lee then proceeded to Tsim Tung Fire Station to see for himself the latest fire-fighting appliances and ambulances. He was pleased to learn that the department's pilot "first responder" programme, which trains frontline firefighters to provide basic life support to casualties before the arrival of an ambulance crew, is progressing well.

He also appreciated the department's efforts to ensure that full paramedic ambulance services would be provided in 2005 despite resource constraints.

"By providing effective emergency services, Fire Services plays an important role in making Hong Kong a safe and secure city," Mr Lee said.

During the visit, he also met with the representatives of staff unions to listen to their views on a number of issues.

Before his departure, Mr Lee boarded the Fire Services flagship, Fireboat Elite, and was briefed on the department's diving and maritime search and rescue operations.

Ends/Thursday, October 9, 2003

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