The Equal Opportunities Commission has had more than its fair share of 'fresh starts' in recent years.
There have been three changes of leadership since 2003. During that time the organisation has been engulfed in a series of damaging scandals. These events prompted an inquiry by a government-appointed panel, which made 70 recommendations for reform in February. Two internal reviews have also been completed by the commission.
But the decision that provides the best platform for the important anti-discrimination body to wipe the slate clean was announced this week.
The Home Affairs Bureau revealed on Tuesday that the entire 15-member board is to be replaced. Thirteen new appointments have already been made. This injection of new blood is long overdue. It will remove commissioners who became embroiled in the recent scandals. The appointments will also bring the commission into line with the government's guidelines for statutory bodies. Members are not supposed to serve for more than six years.
Some of the outgoing commissioners have been with the organisation since it was launched in 1996. Last year, confidence was further shaken when seven commissioners who had already served at least six years were reappointed by then chief executive Tung Chee-hwa. The move reinforced a perception that the government was determined to keep its favourites in place.
The decision to appoint an entirely new board, therefore, makes a refreshing change. It will help the ongoing process of rebuilding the commission's reputation.
A diverse group of commissioners has been selected. It should bring new ideas to the body and make it more representative of the people who need it most.