*********************************************************

Following is the speech by the Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Joseph W P Wong, at the Civil Service Volunteer Work Programme Launching Ceremony today (June 22):

Colleagues, Volunteers, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Welcome to the launching ceremony of the Civil Service Volunteer Work Programme, which is jointly organized by the Civil Service Bureau and the Social Welfare Department. Together, let us witness the formal inauguration of this meaningful activity.

As one of the events in celebration of the fifth anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Programme intends to encourage government departments to set up volunteer teams for the staff to use their spare time to help those in need. Our firm conviction of serving the community is reflected in the motto of the Programme - 'We serve, we care, we volunteer to share'. On duty, we are committed to public service; off duty, we are still devoted to contributing to society by taking part in voluntary work, extending our community-oriented service culture into our private lives.

The Programme actually started in early April this year and has since received enthusiastic support from colleagues, which is most encouraging. So far, it has recorded a total of 70 staff volunteer teams from 61 departments, either already in operation or will soon be set up, demonstrating the caring side of civil servants, who are willing to dedicate their valuable time and energy to a good cause.

It needs to be pointed out that the Programme is more than just an anniversary celebration event. It is an on-going project to involve civil servants in volunteer services. To boost enlistment, regular promotional activities will be scheduled and participants with meritorious contribution will be commended in the Civil Service Newsletter. Colleagues will be encouraged to bring in their families and friends. Retired civil servants are of course welcome as well.

Unfair comments have it that civil service morale hinges only on pay level and annual pay adjustments. In fact, most of our colleagues place the mission of serving the community above monetary gains. While reasonable pay and benefits are essential incentives for civil servants, job satisfaction and public recognition are fundamental to sustaining their morale. The Civil Service Volunteer Work Programme is just the right means by which they fulfil their aspiration.

I would like to take this opportunity to express gratitude to the Information Services Department, the Radio Television Hong Kong and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department. Without their support, this launching ceremony would not have been possible. I must also thank every one of you here for supporting the Programme by active participation. Not only have you discharged your official duties to the fullest extent, but also shown sincere concern for the community. May I express my heart-felt appreciation.

Thank you.

End/Saturday, June 22, 2002

NNNN