PRESS RELEASE

IRD strives for excellent service

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The Commissioner of Inland Revenue, Mrs Alice Lau, said today (June 29) that the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) had achieved its targets in most of its performance pledges in 2005-06. "We have even excelled in some of the targeted performances," she said.

Announcing details of the IRD's 2005-06 performance, Mrs Lau expressed her gratitude to taxpayers for their support for the department. "Taxpayers' support and encouragement has inevitably acted as a key driver behind our pursuit of excellence."

Mrs Lau attributed the IRD's achievement to the dedicated efforts of IRD colleagues, and said the department pledged to continue serving the public better by providing efficient and effective services.

To further promote electronic filing services, the IRD has made continuous enhancements to the e-filing function that effectively reduces the time required to complete the electronic tax return. "Automatic extension of one month is granted to last year's successful e-filers. Other e-filers are also granted a two-week extension. The growing number of e-filers speaks of our continuous efforts to meet customer needs," Mrs Lau said.

Effective from July 1, the IRD will implement the five-day week. With a view to maintaining the overall level and efficiency of existing services, the pledged time for IRD to deliver services has been shortened by one working day for every six working days pledged.

Mrs Lau also thanked members of the IRD Users' Committee, an independent body comprising professionals and academics, for the contributions they have made in monitoring and enhancing the department's performance.

At today's presentation ceremony for the IRD's 2006 Outstanding Customer Service Awards, committee members presented prizes to 39 individual and group winners chosen by taxpayers.

"A taxpayer's vote means support and encouragement, which motivates us to advance further and strive for excellent service," Mrs Lau said.

The IRD's 2006-07 performance pledge and 2005-06 performance pledge annual report are accessible on the IRD website at www.ird.gov.hk. Copies are also available for collection at IRD offices at Revenue Tower, Wan Chai and the Public Enquiry Service Centres of District Offices.

Ends/Thursday, June 29, 2006
Issued at HKT 16:01

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