"In order for the Force to sustain its achievements and consistently deliver a first-class policing service, which can meet requirements in an ever-changing policing landscape, it is crucial to plan for the future. The SAP 2014-16 is the outcome of a rigorous strategic planning process involving all Commissioner Rank Officers during which key issues were identified and the course the Force would take in addressing those issues was decided," Mr Tsang added.
The Force has retained four SDs from the previous cycles because they remain crucial to the continued development and success of the Force:
SD1 — Engaging the Community.
SD2 — Enhancing Personal and Professional Qualities of Force Members.
SD3 — Enhancing Criminal Intelligence Gathering Force-wide.
SD4 — Supporting Frontline Units.
"For effective policing, we must gain the co-operation and support of the community, both law-abiding citizens and members of the public who are willing to work with the police on problem solving. The Key Projects under SD1, therefore, aim at enhancing public understanding and securing public trust and support. This is a two-way street. Force members at all levels must be empathetic to the needs of the community and help members of the public better understand and appreciate our work as we go about our daily duties and our daily lives," reiterated the Commissioner.
"Since the community is changing at a rapid pace, we need a reliable anchor point. That is why upholding the Force Values is vital for effective policing."
Under SD2, the Commissioner expected all Force members to strive for excellence, be ready to accept their professional responsibility and accountability and to deal with what needs to be done without passing the buck to others," Mr Tsang continued.
He also called on all Force members to set the finest example to the community by maintaining good personal conduct and a high standard of integrity, both on and off duty, in the true spirit of the Force's motto- "We serve with pride and care".
"For SD3, as resources are finite, the Force must make the best use of them in preventing and detecting crime. Whilst the Force will continue to leverage on information technology to develop an efficient and effective criminal intelligence system, all Force members should participate in the gathering of crime information.
"As frontline officers have the most frequent and direct contacts with the community, under SD4, they will continue to be provided with the skills, technology and support necessary for them to discharge their duties. The Force will also seek to enhance their job satisfaction through empowerment and better matching of skills and use of talent," said Mr Tsang.
The new SAP comprises 14 Strategic Objectives, which are supported by 15 Key Projects. It is a guiding document for Major Formation Commanders and Formation Commanders to use when drawing up their action plans. However, the COPs and local policing issues must also be taken into consideration during the formulation of action plans.
The Commissioner also encouraged commanders to refer to the Management and Operational Guiding Principles when developing their own plans, which should be simple and operable. "Engaging staff in the development of local action plans is essential if they are to contribute to and assume ownership of the work that needs to be done," Mr Tsang noted.
For further information about the SAP document or for advice on the formulation of MFAPs or FAPs, contact SSP ES SQ Josephine Lau at 2860-6583, whose team will be delighted to assist.
Mr Tsang announces details of the Strategic Directions and Strategic Action Plan for 2014-16