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HONG KONG URBAN COUNCIL
internal review now, it would be 'incestuous reproduction'. I think such a rationale cannot be substantiated. The duty of fellow Members is to monitor the operation of the Department. Urban Councillors are elected and have the duty to monitor and review matters. In fact, each Select Committee of the Urban Council conducts a review each month. We keep on reviewing day after day the manpower and establishment policies of the Department too. I feel that we should instead reflect on whether the ongoing review is effective. If it is suggested that we are not familiar with the manpower situation and operation of the Department, then perhaps we need to review to what extent our research has led on. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
MR. ALBERT Lai Wing-nin (in Cantonese): Mr. Chairman, I have heard a lot of views. It seems to me that many Members do not trust the most senior level of the Urban Services Department and senior staff should be disbanded.
In these three motions, including the two amendments, we see the request for the appointment of a consultancy firm to assist. The original motion wants a consultancy firm to give the Department a hand because the Department is not capable enough and needs help from the firm.
The first amendment wants to make the consultancy firm as a kingdom, to give proposals and to make a report. Of course, we have to vote for or against the proposals. I do not know if there would be massive changes for the Department. With a report from the consultant, there may or may not be massive changes.
The second amendment asks the Department to consider some matters. If the result of consideration is that further reviews are unnecessary, they will not be implemented. So I think a review like this is necessary. I believe that fellow Councillors share the same view with me.
It seems that the implementation of policies is the focal point. Since there is no accountability, those in charge of implementation will not feel badly even if it is unsuccessful. They can ask for transfers so that others will bear the brunt. Therefore, the result of each implementation is bitter. Many policies under implementation cannot be followed through. They are therefore open to criticism. This can be seen from the motion to be moved later on. I think Select Committees should fix deadlines for the Urban Services Department to review manpower and organizational structure in respect of matters and policies under their care. Such discussions should be separated from the Administration Select Committee. I believe this will be effective. What do we need Councillors for? If Councillors want to appoint a consultancy firm and rely on them, what are they supposed to do?
So, I think fellow Councillors are bound by duty to monitor the work of various units and reflect the opinions of our citizens. We are also bound by duty to formulate effective policies and be accountable. I hope this will help stop arguments. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.