CE meets various professional sectors

The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, today (September 17) met with representatives of the Hong Kong Coalition of Professional Services and the Hong Kong Social Workers Association at his office to listen to their views on the Policy Address and various issues.

The Chief Executive suggested enhanced cooperation with the professional sector in three aspects to facilitate further development:

*First, our professional standards must be enhanced continually. We will assist the professional sector to maintain and further upgrade their professional skills to the highest international standards.

*Secondly, we must look after the interests of local residents and consumers. On the one hand, professional fees should be maintained at a reasonable level; on the other hand, the professional sector should also be given sufficient room for further development and to maintain viable operations.

*Thirdly, new opportunities will arise with China's accession to the World Trade Organisation. We should support our professional sector in broadening the access to the Mainland market.

Last week, the Chief Executive attended a Youth Summit and was impressed by the contribution of social workers in youth services. The Government would continue to cooperate with various sectors, including the social workers, and strengthen services for young people to help them equip and development themselves, he said.

The Chief Executive also called on various sectors in the community to show more concern and to provide assistance for people in need.

End/Monday, September 17, 2001

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Photo:The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, met with representatives of the Hong Kong Coalition of Professional Services at his office to listen to their views on various issues.