Sacking underperformers quickly can boost morale: govt
Civil service secretary Ingrid Yeung on Monday said poorly performing public servants will still be given plenty of opportunities to respond to criticism over their work performance under a plan to expedite their dismissal.  The government earlier suggested that underperformers could make only two representations – instead of the current four – when management initiates the sacking proceedings.  Other proposed changes include scrapping an independent panel to review consistently underperforming staff, and only allowing the observation period for these employees to be extended once and under specific circumstances only.  Speaking on an RTHK programme, Yeung noted that while the plan can shave several months off the time needed for the procedures, a mechanism will remain in place to make sure that the employee concerned is heard.  "Our civil service colleagues will undergo appraisal every year, and they will meet with their supervisor afterwards. Staff will have ample opportunities to express their opinion on the appraisal made by the supervisor, which will be put on record," she said.  When asked whether the proposed changes would hurt staff morale, Yeung said she expects the opposite to happen.  "If we can deal with [underperforming staff] quickly, it will actually improve morale. It will also attract young people who are determined and capable to join the government, because they know there will be room for them to unleash their potential, and not be dragged down by underperforming co-workers," she said.