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2002 was an exceptionally
challenging year to the Labour Department. The seasonally
adjusted unemployment rate rose to a record high of
7.8 per cent in the period of May to July. Nevertheless,
the Labour Department strived to meet the surging service
demands by further strengthening our services. Following
are some achievements.
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Despite tight government resources, we secured $400 million for the new 'Youth Work Experience and Training Scheme' to enhance the employability of young people;
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a bridging loan of $695 million was
acquired for the Protection of Wages on Insolvency
Fund Board to tide over its cash flow problem
in meeting commitments under the Protection of
Wages on Insolvency Fund Ordinance; and an inter-departmental
task force was set up to investigate suspect cases
of abuse of the Fund;
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though the number of labour disputes and claims surged to record high, 63.2 per cent of the cases were resolved amicably through conciliation and no strike was recorded in 2002;
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a new Employment Claims Investigation Unit was established to expedite investigation and prosecution against wages offences; and special inspection campaigns were conducted to combat illegal employment;
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2 572 disabled job-seekers succeeded in getting a job with our assistance, which was another year of historical high since the establishment of the Selective Placement Division;
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the Occupational Safety and Health (Display Screen Equipment) Regulation was enacted and some other regulations were amended for better protection of work safety and health.
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We are mindful of the hardship ahead. Nevertheless, we are committed to providing responsive and professional services to serve the community. I would like to thank employees, employers and all other strategic partners for their support and cooperation during the year. My appreciation also goes to colleagues of the department for their dedication and unfailing efforts in meeting the ever-increasing demands of the society.
(Tenure:27.6.2000 ~ 30.6.2003) |
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