>Press Releases Home > Publications and press releases > Press Releases 28 people commended for saving lives at sea The Acting Director of Marine, Mr Roger Tupper, today (March 19) presented commendations to 28 people in recognition of their bravery in risking their lives to save others in Hong Kong waters last year. Receiving the commendations were 19 police officers, two traffic wardens, three crewmembers from the Star Ferry Co Ltd, two civilians, a sailor from Fortune Ferry Co Ltd and a fireman from the Fire Services Department. At the presentation ceremony, Mr Tupper said the Marine Department was responsible for all maritime matters in Hong Kong and one of the commitments was to ensure that every ship that came to the port of Hong Kong could navigate safely in Hong Kong waters and carry out business efficiently. "To enhance marine safety, we have commissioned a consultancy study to assess present and future levels of marine traffic risks in Hong Kong waters, and will propose options to mitigate any identified risks for the sustainability of the Hong Kong port." "The Marine Department, in conjunction with other relevant government bodies, will assess all possible options based on the findings of the study, and develop a strategy to implement the selected options in order to ensure that Hong Kong will continue to provide shipping with one of the safest and most efficient ports in the world in the years ahead," Mr Tupper said. He said that with rising public expectations and a rapidly changing environment, the department had kept abreast of the latest developments and technology advances in vessel traffic management systems so as to ensure navigation safety and efficiency. He noted that the Marine Department in association with the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities had hosted the 10th International Symposium on Vessel Traffic Services from February 10 to 13 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. "This event, held at a major world port once every four years, provided an excellent opportunity for international experts on port management and the industry to exchange ideas and work together for a better service to meet the needs of mariners," Mr Tupper said. He expressed his heartfelt thanks to the recipients at today's ceremony. He said lives would have been lost and families bereaved in the past 12 months without the bravery and public-spiritedness of people like them. Ends/Friday, March 19, 2004
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