PS Public Administration Kathleen Rogers
The Department of Public Administration, on Thursday December 6th 2018, held its first Civil Service Appreciation Ceremony.
Eleven retirees were honoured during the ceremony held on the grounds of Government House. They were Marilyn J. Connor, Daphne C. Jacobs Richardson, Vernon R. Hodge, Sandra M. York Gumbs, James L. Carty, Oronica E. Hughes, Bernard B. Wattley, Margarita C. Lloyd-Boland, Daphne F. Armantrading, Jasmine A. Hodge-Thomas and Mildred L. Hilliman-Christie.
In remarks, Acting Governor Perin Bradley said he was pleased to say a few words to mark this occasion. He noted that though it had been discussed for quite some time, this was the first time that retirees were being formally recognised in this manner and he thanked the team at the Department of Public Administration for spearheading the initiative.
In paying tribute to the honourees, Mr. Bradley said they represented a wide cross section of the public service, coming from several departments and various levels of seniority. “What they are have in common is a commitment to public service as a vocation and to the public service as an organization,” the Acting Governor added.
Mr. Bradley was of the view that the public service was an easy target for critics. He continued: “It’s not the most glamorous work, and it certainly won’t make you rich…but it’s arguably the most important work there is. How else will this country function without the public service? Who else would be able to translate our Government’s policies, laws, and our societal values into everyday life?”
In his remarks Acting Deputy Governor Foster Rogers thanked the retirees for their service to the Government and people of Anguilla. “Your sacrifice in many ways is greatly appreciated. Your contribution to national development will last long beyond your end of days. So be proud. As you move ahead to the next phase of your life I wish you well,” he added.
The programme was chaired by Mrs. C. Charmaine Rogers, Deputy Director Employment. Others participating in the ceremony included the Rev. Dr. Wycherley Gumbs who delivered the Invocation, Mrs. Maria Hughes, Human Resource Management Officer, who provided the background and purpose of the event and Mrs. Lana Horsford Harrigan who delivered the Vote of Thanks.
Mrs. Marilyn J. Connor spoke on behalf of the retirees. Appreciation plaques were presented to the retirees by the Acting Governor assisted by PS Public Administration, Kathleen Rogers.
Musical renditions during the evening were presented by the ALCHS Jazz Band under the direction of Mr. Lennox Vanterpool.
– Contributed
