In view of the latest local epidemic situation, a spokesman for the Government announced today (January 24) that bureaux and departments will implement new special work arrangements having regard to their operational needs starting from tomorrow (January 25). The Government will closely monitor the epidemic situation and review the arrangements in due course.
The spokesman said that the Civil Service Bureau has issued guidelines to bureaux and departments requesting them to review demand for their services, and, having regard to their operational needs, to implement new special work arrangements with a view to reducing the number of staff present at the same time in the office, while generally maintaining basic public services and not affecting anti-epidemic work. Such arrangements may include allowing some of their staff to take turns to work from home as far as possible. As a result, there may be temporary reduction in provision of some of the public services offered by individual departments. The departments concerned will make suitable arrangements and announcements separately. The Government appeals to members of the public for their understanding should there be any inconvenience caused.
Reducing the flow of people in government buildings and offices will help contain the epidemic. Members of the public are encouraged to use alternative means, such as the post, drop-in boxes or online channels, to receive the services they need. Meanwhile, members of the public should wear surgical masks at all times when they are entering or are present in any government buildings or offices, and comply with the infection control and social distancing measures implemented by relevant departments including using the "LeaveHomeSafe" mobile app, temperature checks and crowd control arrangements.
The spokesman also appealed to employers to allow their staff members to work from home as far as possible according to their operational needs so as to significantly reduce the flow of people and social contact in the community.
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