Hail to Public Officers!
It has been said that Belize’s largest employer is the government, which means that the largest section of the workforce comprises public officers. Over the years, criticism has been heaped on public officers who’ve been less than professional in their interaction with the public, and others for engaging in unscrupulous activity. But, without public officers, the country would not function. It stands to reason, then, that their work is highlighted, in appreciation of their contribution to the development of the country. In tandem with the United Nations’ Public Service Day today, the Ministry of the Public Service carried out two events as part of Public Service Week. The first, on Wednesday night, was an awards ceremony to honour public officers who’ve been at it for decades, and those whose services have gone over and beyond. The second was Public Service Information Day on Thursday that zeroed in on the different types of fields of work that public officers engage in across the spectrum. News Five’s Marion Ali reports.
Marion Ali, Reporting
A great many of Belize’s public officers have been on the grind for decades, religiously getting to the office and getting in a fair month’s work, day after day. Sometimes the job requires them to move to other districts to fill a post or hold over for a fellow officer who is away on leave. On Wednesday night, the most accomplished public officers were honoured at a special ceremony. Glenfield Dennison addressed the awardees.
Glenfield Dennison
Glenfield Dennison, Keynote Speaker, Public Service Awards Ceremony
“The quality of leadership can make or break public officers. Good leaders don’t play politics. Politicians are paid to play politics, but you are public servants, and public servants manage situations and projects. If you do this right, you won’t have to manage the people. If you refuse to engage in the politics then you’ll be seen as honest and trustworthy, and trust me, there is not greater honour than your name being associated with being honest and trustworthy.”
Governor General, Dame Froyla T’zalam made a toast to the honourees.
Dame Froyla T’zalam
Dame Froyla T’zalam, Governor General
“This year’s banner starts with selfless service, and as the guest speaker has so eloquently spoken of, that should be the foundational attitude to our work every day. We have, furthermore, no excuse to be aloof and indifferent when we do our jobs. In return, you are recognized for the years of service given through awards such as being held tonight. Many times when I get your files on my desk, I am astonished, quite frankly, at the length of service many of you have provided to this country, some exceeding 30 years plus. I can’t even begin to understand how long that is. So, to my mind, that is dedication of heart, for sure.”
Coming off a night of pleasantries, Thursday was spent showing off a variety of services that public officers engage in. Trade Economist with the Ministry of Foreign Trade, Berisford Codd Jr., who was the guest speaker, pointed out that public service is the core of the nation’s progress and development.
Berisford Codd, Jr.
Berisford Codd, Jr., Trade Economist, Ministry of Foreign Trade
“It is the embodiment of selflessness and dedication and a deep commitment to serving our fellow citizens. As public officers, we have the honor and responsibility to contribute to the growth, stability and wellbeing of our nation. It is a calling that requires not only knowledge and expertise, but also a genuine passion for making a positive difference in people’s lives.”
Marion Ali for News Five.
