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"In a span of just 15 years, DBs have matured from having the District Officer as chairman to fully elected membership.
"In the process, much have been achieved and the fact is, thousands of issues were discussed and hundreds of presentations were made to DBS over the past 15 years," he said.
"As DBs mature and become accepted by local residents, members' workload also become heavier. A review will give us some pointers as to how we should go on from here," Mr Suen added.
In this connection, Mr Suen said it would be timely for past and present DB members to get together and discuss issues such as the role of DBs, how Government branches and departments can further support ther, and how members can "deepen" their contacts with the residents who elected them so as to enable the members to carry out their duties better.
"The very definition of representative government dictates that while officials consult members at DB meetings, DB members themselves must contact and explain to their constituents who will be directly affected by what has been proposed or explained at DB meetings," he added.
Mr Suen also presented certificates of appreciation to 149 DB members with 10 or more years of service.
About 350 guests, including serving and former DB members and district personalities, took part in the seminar.
Guest speakers, including Mr Andrew Wong, Mrs Peggy Lam and Mr Lau Wong-fat, shared their experiences as veteran DB members.
Participants held discussions on topics such as "Review of the role of DBS in District Administration", "How Government officials could further support District Administration" and "Conditions of service for DB members" during the workshop session. Many constructive suggestions and comments were made.
End