It is with deep regret that we have today learnt of the sad death of our former colleague and friend Samuel Tam. We have reached out to his family to extend our deepest sympathies and will render all possible assistance.
Tragic news such as this may affect colleagues in different ways. Please stay healthy.
The news has saddened us all. Working in this department for over 20 years and as a unit head for over 10 years, good staff management is always key to helping colleagues cope with work stress. Against this background, I am obliged to tell you that the department’s grade management (from decision-making to operational arrangement), especially in recent years, should asap undergo a thorough review (covering interviews with at least staff rep or any colleagues who wish to voice their views) by an outsider who has no role in staff promotion. A fair and just assessment by a third party on the department’s grade management will definitely help boost staff morale and improve work efficiency. And most important of all, prevention is better than cure. Therefore, before the next tragedy happens, I now formally write to you to demand for such a review so that we can put an end to any existing problems and put in place better measures to ensure staff benefits - in particular mental health - are of the department’s top priority.
While I have planned to resign next year, I am most happy to stay for a year or two should the review require my input and work. Colleagues’ well-being always tops my agenda.
Some PrSs have called me regarding this email. Although they are not quite clear of what Katherine was pointing to they suggested using the DCC mechanism to gauge colleagues‘ views in due course. They understand that currently the Department has to focus its effort on fighting against the virus.