SCS visits Marine Department (with photos)

     The Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Joshua Law, visited the Marine Department today (May 9) and met with its management and frontline staff to learn more about the department's work and challenges.

     Accompanied by the Permanent Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Thomas Chow, Mr Law first met with the Director of Marine, Ms Maisie Cheng, and the directorate staff to get an update on the department's work concerning maritime and navigational safety.

     He then toured the Vessel Traffic Centre (VTC) located at the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal to find out how the VTC, with the help of the newly upgraded third generation Vessel Traffic Services system, monitors vessels' movements in Hong Kong waters round the clock and facilitates the safe arrival and departure of the vessels.

     He also boarded a department patrol launch at Central Government Pier to learn more about how frontline officers support the VTC in co-ordinating actions to facilitate safe navigation and patrolling duties in places such as anchorages, fairways and cargo working areas.

     In addition, Mr Law visited the Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre (MRCC) to learn more about its operation. The MRCC, equipped with advanced Global Maritime Distress and Safety Systems, co-ordinates search and rescue operations during maritime distress situations in Hong Kong waters and within the Hong Kong Search and Rescue Region in the South China Sea.

     At a tea gathering with staff representatives of various grades, Mr Law exchanged views on matters of concern. He also encouraged them to continue to provide quality and professional marine services to the public.