>Press Releases Home > Publications and press releases > Press Releases 18 people commended for saving lives at sea The Director of Marine, Mr Tsui Shung-yiu, today (March 18) presented commendations to 18 people in recognition of their bravery when risking their lives to save others in Hong Kong waters last year. Receiving commendations were six crew members from the Star Ferry Company, Limited, two civilians, a master from Oriental Overseas Container Line Limited, a captain from Tai Chong Cheang Steamship Company (HK) Limited, and eight officers from the Hong Kong Police Force. At the presentation ceremony, Mr Tsui said the Marine Department was responsible for all maritime matters in Hong Kong and the safety standards of all classes and types of vessels. "One of the commitments is to ensure that every ship that comes to the port of Hong Kong can navigate safely in Hong Kong waters and carry out business efficiently," he said. "To enhance port security, the Government enacted the Merchant Shipping (Security of Ships and Port Facilities) Ordinance 2004 for implementing the International Ship and Port Facility (ISPS) Code which has come into force since July 1, 2004." Pursuant to the implementation of the ISPS Code, which is applicable to ships engaged on international voyages and port facilities directly interfacing with such ships, the Director of Marine has been appointed as the designated authority to issue maritime security levels for the port of Hong Kong and Hong Kong registered ships since June, 2004. "Ships and port facilities concerned are required to tighten their access control measures for visitors including advance notification, verification of identification documents, baggage inspection, personal screening/searching and escort by security personnel." "Ship owners, masters, agents and port facility operators are also required to act upon the maritime security levels in accordance with the measures prescribed in their security plans," he said.   Regarding local craft safety, the Marine Department's Harbour Patrol Section has stepped up law enforcement duties to prevent illegal carriage of cargo and overloading by vessels, as well as continuing regular patrols to reduce risk of collision incidents in the busy area of Hong Kong waters. "We trust that these measures and policies will enhance marine traffic safety in the years ahead and Hong Kong will continue to be one of the safest and most efficient ports in the world," Mr Tsui said. He also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the heroes for their altruistic and courageous acts in saving the lives of others last year. Ends/Friday, March 18, 2005
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