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In response to press enquiries concerning the Fu Shan Public Mortuary incident, a spokesman for the Department of Health today (March 24) said a copy of the Independent Committee's report had been referred to the police for consideration if criminal investigation was warranted.
In order not to compromise the police investigation, a disciplinary hearing will be conducted after police investigation.
In the meantime, the two staff concerned are on leave. They will be redeployed to other duties outside mortuaries upon return from leave.
The spokesman explained that under the Public Service (Administration) Order, an officer interdicted for the purpose of disciplinary proceedings would receive full pay. An officer on interdiction would receive half pay if he was charged under the Public Service (Administration) Order for a misconduct which may lead to his removal from office or if a criminal proceeding was instituted against him.
Ends/Friday, March 24, 2006
Issued at HKT 18:10
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