XN000022-1995-11-02 — Page 75

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The Immigration Department is conscious of the need to look for ways to reduce the processing time for its document and control procedures, so as to bring more convenience to the public in applying for travel documents and make travelling through our control points a less onerous experience. The Department has already taken a number of measures to simplify the visa application procedures to reduce processing time. Since October 1994, we have allowed applications for visas for residence, investment, employment and study to be directly submitted to the Hong Kong Immigration Department. In February, 1996, this convenience will be extended to visit and transit visas from most countries. Simplification of procedures have also allowed us to cut down the processing time for permits of Taiwanese visitors from seven to five working days. Part of the strategy to improve efficiency is the wider application of modern Information Technology. The introduction of a new computer system and optical readers at our Immigration control points save 20 seconds of processing time for each traveller who has a machine readable passport, and 4 seconds for holders of identity cards. We are also examining the feasibility of a "smart card" system, which will enable travellers to complete clearance procedures at our control points even quicker. Streamlining procedures has also reduced the time required to process applications for naturalisation as British Dependant Territories citizens from 12 months to eight months. Upon the full implementation of the Information Systems Strategy, we expect to save some 600 posts.

The Fire Services Department is introducing new equipment to improve its communication and control system. This includes a digitised Geographic Information System that will allow fire appliances to obtain geographical information about the location of fires more quickly and accurately, and thus to respond faster to emergency calls. The Department is also developing a Fire Protection Information System, which will improve the communication and coordination between the Fire Protection Bureau and regional offices on fire prevention advice. One of the aims of our recent ambulance service consultancy study is to develop PC-based computer modelling techniques for future service planning. This is now being implemented.

The Correctional Services Department has also taken steps to modernise its operation. We have recently completed the installation of the Penal Records Information System, which has brought about efficiency improvements in its records system We are also modernising the security systems in our penal institutions to provide a more secure environment and improve the operational effectiveness of the Department.