2
special division or branch in the department but that, as special education was likely to develop rapidly, an examination of the need
for additional staff was in hand. We were also told that it would not
be appropriate for technical teachers training to be provided by the
Hong Kong Polytechnic instead of the Technical Teachers Training
College as the former was not geared to provide teacher training.
Head 49 Medical and Health Department
5. We enquired about plans to provide greater incentives to
retain experienced doctors and were informed that improved salaries
and promotion prospects were not the only factors involved, and that
conditions for doctors had to be considered in the context of service-
wide implications. We were also told that the current vacancy position of 12% to 13% of establishment was uncomfortable, but not intolerable,
and that the position would improve in August when 120 to 130 graduates from the Hong Kong University could be expected to seek employment
with Government.
5.
We were informed of the existing arrangements for training
speech and occupational therapists overseas, and were told the
department was discussing with the Hong Kong Polytechnic the
possibility of providing suitable training in Hong Kong. We were
also advised that there were adequate facilities to treat those mental
health patients who came forward for treatment, and that plans were
in hand to remedy the shortage of X-ray facilities for some types of
examination.
+
1
Head 50 Miscellaneous Services
7.
We were told that the staff suggestion scheme was reviewed
periodically and that the provision was considered adequate in the light of awards made during the last few years.
...i..
/Head 63
...
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