2005-03-12 11:51 The Force took justifiable pride in the state-of-the-art Police Headquarters (PHQ), which served to reflect our commitment to continuous improvement and our strive for excellence, said the Commissioner of Police, Mr Dick Lee Ming-kwai today (March 12). Speaking at the opening ceremony of the new PHQ, Mr Lee said the completion and opening of Arsenal House and the new adjacent Central Police Station were a source of great gratification to the Force. The opening ceremony was officiated by the Acting Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, who was accompanied by the Secretary for Security, Mr Ambrose S K Lee and Mr Lee. The Police Commissioner said that the new complex cost $2.08 billion, one third less than the original budget of approximately $3.23 billion, and took nearly four years to construct. "Upon completion, more than 3,800 officers and civilians from formations previously accommodated in leased commercial premises and Headquarter units scattered in various other police premises are now accommodated here." "This not only achieves significant savings of up to $34 million in rent annually for the government, but also enhances our overall efficiency by pooling our resources under one roof," Mr Lee added. The public interface offices, including the Police Licensing Office, Media Briefing Room, Crime Prevention Bureau's Display Room and Recruitment Division's Reception Office are now all housed in this new complex. The adjacent Central Police Station also provides customer-oriented and quality service to the public. "Our operational efficiency and service to the public is enhanced by the extensive use of new technology within the complex," Mr Lee said. "The complex is installed with modern combined fibre optic cables and computer flooring, providing a platform to facilitate our continued benefit from current and future information technology developments," he added The auditorium, multi purpose hall, conference rooms are all fitted with advanced audio-visual equipment and video conference functions. Next week, Interpol and the Hong Kong Police will cost-host the 15th Interpol Symposium for Heads of Police Training in this new complex. "This is the first time that the conference has been held outside of France. Delegates to the symposium from over the world will gain first hand experience of the advancements made not only by Hong Kong as an international city, but also by the Hong Kong Police as one of the most modern police forces in the world," Mr Lee said. Mr Lee thanked those involved in the project since its conception for their painstaking efforts in making this huge development project possible. |