The Census and Statistics Department (C&SD), an affiliated department of the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB), mobilised a total of 190 staff members, including colleagues of the Statistician, Census and Survey Officer and Clerical Officer grades, to co-ordinate and conduct a "restriction-testing declaration" (RTD) and compulsory testing notice operation in respect of a specified "restricted area" in Sau Yin House, Sau Mau Ping Estate, Kwun Tong, last night (February 28). They stood fast at their posts and devoted themselves wholeheartedly during the critical moment of fighting against the epidemic.
The operation, involving over 600 residential units, started at 6pm yesterday and the compulsory testing exercise finished at around 11.15am today (March 1). In the overnight operation, the C&SD was responsible for duties including arranging registration and testing for persons subject to compulsory testing, delivering food packs to them to facilitate their meal arrangements, and delivering other supplies such as anti-epidemic proprietary Chinese medicines donated by the nation.
"As part of the civil service, the C&SD has promptly mobilised a sizeable amount of manpower to co-ordinate the RTD and testing operation in the 'restricted area' in Sau Mau Ping Estate as an important anti-epidemic measure, upholding the commitments of serving the public and responding proactively," the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, said.
"Officers of the C&SD co-ordinated the RTD and testing operation in the 'restricted area' in short spans of time, so as to reduce the impact on the public. I very much appreciate their efforts. In future, other departments under the FSTB, regardless of their current responsibilities, will also mobilise officers to co-ordinate similar anti-epidemic measures."
Mr Hui stressed that the Government has the determination and confidence to stabilise the epidemic situation within a certain period of time with the staunch support of the Central Authorities and the full commitment of all sectors in Hong Kong.
"With powerful backing from the Central Authorities and under 'one country, two systems', we have great strength, resources and confidence to take all necessary measures and unite all sectors of the community to fight against the fifth wave of the epidemic."
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