The overall recidivism rate of prisoners and inmates has fallen to a record low, Secretary for Security Ambrose Lee says, attributing the fall to the concerted efforts of the public.

Speaking at the Correctional Services Department Passing-out Parade today, Mr Lee said the department has established a partnership with the community in helping rehabilitated offenders re-integrate into society.

Noting the department faces various challenges in the allocation of manpower, facilities and other resources, Mr Lee said the Government has implemented several projects to provide additional penal places to alleviate prison overcrowding. Other prison development projects will also be actively explored.

"The Government has given approval to CSD to recruit 45 staff this year to fill vacancies. In the meantime, the department, in the face of fiscal restraints, has taken corresponding measures, including the change of its internal culture, suitable cultivation of talents and sound allocation of resources, so as to ensure that all custodial and rehabilitation services are rendered efficiently."