DFAP Keith Kwok discusses the benefits arising from EPP Year Two

Despite the concern over the Enhanced Productivity Programme which has emerged in some sectors, the Force is actually using the scheme to expand and bolster services.

Director of Finance, Administration and Planning Keith Kwok Ka-keung said under the Year Two EPP plan, 533 posts would be deleted.

However, the posts were only those which were no longer needed, and the plan would also see the creation of 149 new posts which would boost operational services.

"This is not at all a case of the police force shrinking, but rather it is the Force adapting to changing circumstances. We are in fact making use of the opportunity offered by EPP to expand and boost police services while cutting the posts we no longer need," Mr Kwok said.

"All the new creations relate to operational posts which will actually boost frontline services. I hope officers and the public will be assured by these figures which show we are not cutting services."

Year Two EPP entails the deletion of 435 disciplined posts, of which 85 per cent stem from the recruitment ranks of Police Constables and Inspectors. A further 98 civilian posts would also be deleted.

On top of the 533 posts, a further 200 to 400 civilian posts may also be deleted as a result of the Civil Service exercise to delete vacant posts and early retirements under the Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS).

"All of these will only be achieved through natural wastage and nobody will be forced to retire as a result of the deletion of posts," Mr Kwok said.

Some of the main approaches include: Deleting the surplus in the Training Reserves - 240 posts; reorganising guard and reception services - 38 posts; closure of disused police facilities like Tai Ah Chau and Discovery Bay Police Posts - 74 posts; and, station amalgamations involving Ho Man Tin and Tai Hing Divisions - 38 posts.

"Of the 435 disciplined posts, over half come from the Training Reserve which are vacant - they are not in use at the moment. These are very clear illustrations of the very minimal effect all these deletions will have on the Force. All of these have been achieved while at the same time continuing with the recruitment and training of officers," Mr Kwok said.

"While we are deleting back-room posts, we are creating new ones to better respond to new demands placed on police by the community. It is a continuous process of adapting to changes."

Of the 149 new posts, 61 will go to stations in west Kowloon to cope with the population increase expected with developments on new reclamation there.

"What is most remarkable in this exercise is the very positive way in which Regions and Districts have responded by coming up with constructive as well as practical ideas on how to achieve the EPP targets. All of these EPP proposals have been thoroughly discussed with major formation commanders who have also offered their feedback and suggestions.

"This has greatly facilitated a two-way discussion in a fully-consultative and totally balanced manner. I would like to compliment them for being so forthcoming in providing their positive recommendations and strong support, " Mr Kwok said.

"The deletions are shared between disciplined and civilian posts. There is also quite a reasonable spread of deletions through the ranks.

"The overall effect on promotion prospects has been minimised. Most of the deletions have been done through civilianisation and streamlining so no frontline police services are effected."

The plan has been endorsed by the Commissioner of Police and is expected to come into force on April 1.

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