Safety seminars for franchised bus drivers launched

The Road Safety Seminars for Franchised Bus Drivers launched today (March 27) to further enhance the safety awareness of franchised bus services.

Jointly organised by the Transport Department and Hong Kong Police Force, a total of five seminars will be held bi-monthly.

Speaking at the launching ceremony of the seminars, the Commissioner for Transport, Mr Robert Footman said franchised bus drivers had an important job - the safety of over 4.2 million passengers a day is in their hands.

"I hope that, through the seminars, you will have a better understanding of the problems you face, and be more aware of the importance of safe driving, for yourselves, passengers and other road users," Mr Footman added.

The five seminars will be attended by some 500 drivers from Kowloon Motor Bus Company (1933) Limited, Citybus Limited, New World First Bus Services Limited, New Lantao Bus Company (1973) Limited and Long Win Bus Company Limited. They will highlight tips on safe driving, analyse major accident black spots and common contributory factors of bus accidents.

"I am aware that the franchised bus companies provide their drivers with comprehensive training programmes.

"I hope that, through the joint efforts of the Government and the bus companies, the safety of franchised bus services will be further improved," Mr Footman said.

Today's ceremony was also officiated by the Chairman of Road Safety Campaign Committee, Mr Lawrence Yu; the Chief Superintendent of Police Traffic Headquarters, Mr Tang How-kong; and representatives from the five franchised bus companies.

End/Wednesday, March 27, 2002