ENG-2000 — Page 383

PUBLIC ORDER

Superintendent's course has led to the recommendation that a modular system be introduced. This will increase flexibility in the delivery of training.

In support of the Force Values and to develop a more customer-oriented service approach, the Training Development Bureau launched a series of Service Improvement Training courses for front-line officers. In alignment with the Government's language policy to develop a biliterate and trilingual civil service, the Training Development Bureau, in liaison with the Civil Service Training and Development Institute, has tailor-made functional English and Putonghua courses to enhance the language abilities of police officers.

The Weapon Training Division is responsible for conducting international-standard firearms and tactics training. All the training programmes in the Police Force are designed on the basis of practicality, realism and interaction, which is in line with international best practices.

The Detective Training School provides a variety of specialist training to officers engaged in criminal investigation. Plans are being pursued to relocate the Detective Training School to the Police Training School, where the training environment and supporting facilities are more ideal.

The Police Driving School provides training to police drivers on a wide range of motor vehicles. The school has a customer-oriented policy and staff members are committed to continuous improvement in the quality of training, to better meet both logistics and operational driving needs.

The Information Technology Training Centre updates and trains officers in the use of nine major Force Systems. It also provides and organises other high quality computer courses for force members. The centre's role has become more important with the implementation and development of a wide range of information technology systems within the Police Force.

The Auxiliary Training Division conducts training for auxiliary police officers. The training includes recruit constable courses, annual camps, promotion courses, on-the- job training, and courses in law and procedure.

Recruitment

There were 1 640 applications for Inspectorate posts in 2000, compared with 2 215 in 1999. Of the 25 officers who were appointed as Inspectors, five were serving officers promoted from within the ranks. Recruitment at the constable rank remained satisfactory with 254 recruits out of 7 773 applicants.

Awards

In 2000, three officers were awarded the Hong Kong Police Medal for Distinguished Service and 26 officers received the Hong Kong Police Medal for Meritorious Service. In recognition of their long and loyal service, 1 335 officers were awarded the Hong Kong Police Long Service Medal after 18 years of continuous police service, 1 141 officers the 1st Clasp to the medal after 25 years' service, 316 officers the 2nd Clasp to the medal after 30 years' service, and 277 officers the 3rd Clasp to the medal after 33 years' service. Among the civilians, one officer was awarded the Medal of Honour, one received the Chief Executive's Commendation for Government Service and 171 officers were awarded the Long and Meritorious Service Certificate. Furthermore, 294 officers and 22 civilians received the Long Service Travel Award.

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