Verification Statement
Scope of and Objective
Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency ("HKQAA") was commissioned by Drainage Services Department ("DSD") to undertake an independent verification for its Sustainability Report 2017-2018 ("the Report"). The scope of this verification covers the sustainability performance data and information associating with DSD for the reporting period of 1st April 2017 to 31st March 2018, as defined in the Report.
The aim of this verification is to provide a reasonable assurance on the reliability of the report contents. The Report has been prepared in accordance with the Core Option of the Global Reporting Initiative Sustainability Reporting Standards ("GRI Standards"). The Report states DSD's commitments, efforts and progress of performance towards sustainability.
Level of Assurance and Methodology
HKQAA's verification procedure was designed for devising opinions and conclusions to obtain a reasonable level of assurance. The extent of this verification process undertaken covered the criteria set in the GRI Standards: Core Option, GRI Standards.
The verification process included verifying the systems and processes implemented for collecting, collating and reporting the sustainability performance data, reviewing relevant documentation, interviewing responsible personnel with accountability for preparing the reporting contents and verifying selected representative sample of data and information. Raw data and supporting evidence of the selected samples were also thoroughly examined during the verification process.
Independence
DSD was responsible for the collection and preparation of the information presented. HKQAA did not involve in calculating and compiling the reporting data, or content development of the Report. Our verification activities were entirely independent from DSD.
Conclusion
Based on the verification results and in accordance with the verification procedures undertaken, HKQAA has obtained reasonable assurance and is in the opinion that:
- The material topics and its sustainability performance specified in the GRI Standards have been adequately addressed in the Report;
- The Report illustrates the sustainability performance of DSD's material topics in a balanced, comparable, clear and timely manner; and
- The data and information disclosed in the Report are reliable and complete.
In conclusion, the Report reflects truthfully the sustainability commitments, policies and performance of DSD and discloses transparently the sustainability performance of the department that is commensurate with its sustainability context and materiality.
Signed on behalf of Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency
Jorine Tam
Director, Corporate Business
December 2018
