Own the Public Service – officials

Public servants gathered at the Frenches House in Kingstown this week, for a two-day workshop on “owning the public service”.{{more}}

The workshop, organized by the Public Sector Reform Unit in the Ministry of National Reconciliation, the Public Service, Labour, Information and Ecclesiatical Affairs, focused on improving the quality of service given to the public on a daily basis.

At Tuesday’s opening ceremony, participants were encouraged by Dr Audrey Gittens-Gilkes, the newly appointed Permanent Secretary to the ministry, to take their responsibilities seriously, as they go about their duties on a daily basis.

Also imploring the participants to serve with humility, and at the same time with pride and passion, was Cabinet Secretary Kattian Barnwell.

She pointed out that public servants need to embody the type of meekness that leads to understanding and compassion for the people they serve.

Minister responsible for the Public Service Maxwell Charles also addressed the opening of the workshop, and reminded the public servants that they impact the lives of every citizen of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

The minister said that the public servant’s role is of great importance, and that as professionals, they should be committed to the highest degree of integrity.

The workshop was facilitated by Vera Anne Brereton, with contributions by a number of senior public servants and consultants.(JJ)