**************************************
In response to her appointment by the Chief Executive, The Ombudsman (Designate), Ms Connie Lau Yin-hing, issued the following statement today (March 17):
"I am honoured to accept the Chief Executive's appointment as The Ombudsman for five years starting from April 1, 2014. With the powers bestowed upon me under The Ombudsman Ordinance, I will do my utmost to serve the public by leading the Office of The Ombudsman to handle public grievances against maladministration and look into matters that are of public concern in an independent and impartial manner, in order to facilitate improvement in the quality and standard of and promote fairness in public administration. I believe my over 30 years of experience in the Consumer Council and other public services will help me discharge my duties as The Ombudsman effectively.
"I look forward to working closely with colleagues in The Ombudsman's Office to ensure that the Office continues to fulfil its duties and serve the public effectively in accordance with the law."
Ends/Monday, March 17, 2014
Issued at HKT 15:25
NNNN