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"You have assisted in evacuating flood victims; you have played an active part in our countryside fire protection efforts; you conducted rural area patrol duties; you have managed Vietnamese migrants detention centres; and you have continued to provide Hong Kong's principal mountain rescue service," he said.
On mountain rescue service, Mr Lai said CAS' response to the recent tragic hill fire at Pat Sin Leng clearly showed the professionalism and perseverance of its members.
"Your outstanding mountain rescue work, particularly in locating the last casualty, was clearly demonstrated and, I am sure, will be remembered by the people of Hong Kong with gratitude for many years to come," he said.
"As an extension of your excellent service, you will in the months and years ahead pass on your knowledge and expertise in mountaineering to other colleagues in the civil service, as well as teachers and students in schools, so as to enhance the safety and protection of hikers.
"This is yet another example of your public spiritedness and your professionalism."
On those passing out today, Mr Lai noted that they had completed 180 hours of basic training.
"You will now be attached to units where you will receive further advanced training on specialised subjects.
"Very soon you will be working in the front line with your more experienced colleagues, and learn to aspire to the very high standards that they have set. I have no doubt you will be determined to show them that you are every bit as good as they are," he said.
Mr Lai said he believed strongly that one of the secrets of Hong Kong's success was the strength of commitment shown by individuals who wished to offer whatever form of public service they could and pointed out that CAS' new members were a perfect example of this.