Workers at the Drainage Division have been assured of Government’s continued support, but were advised to be respectful at all times.
Minister of the Environment and Drainage, Dr. Denis Lowe, gave this advice as he addressed the Division’s annual staff awards ceremony at the Ministry’s Hincks Street, St. Michael headquarters yesterday.
While highly commending the work being done by the Division across the country, Dr. Lowe reminded staff that it was driven by values, with the primary one being ???respect’.
“Every one of us has an obligation to have respect for God, respect for self, and respect for others. I want to encourage you that even during those rough moments on the job, or off the job, always seek to conduct yourself from a platform of respect,” the Minister said.
Noting that there were times when staff did not understand why decisions were taken, he advised: “If decisions are taken in the best interest of the execution of the work of the Division, and the advancement of the Government’s programme, then my suggestion to you is that you fall in line and ensure that you execute your responsibility with the grace which I see some of you do.”
Dr. Lowe told staff that they were providing a valued service to Barbados, and vowed to defend them at “every single turn”. He added that in return he wanted workers to defend the cause of ensuring that Barbados became a brighter and better place to live.
The Environment Minister told those present that tourism was one of the main staples of Barbados’ economy, and it was important that they see work being done to maintain the beauty they came to enjoy and experience.
“So, the values are important. The value of respect, the value of dedication and commitment, because one of the things we have to keep pushing is the whole issue of productivity and I am asking you to continue to do your best to ensure that you give your best quality work for your pay because that is important,” Dr. Lowe urged.
He also gave the workers the assurance that the Ministry was actively looking for a new home for the Drainage Division so it could have its own headquarters.
Dr. Lowe told workers that after touring the Division recently, he was aware that the storeroom was stocked with adequate safety supplies and gear, and expected that they would use them in the execution of their duties.
This year, the Director’s award went to Cassandra Yarde, for her good work ethic and dependability. Meanwhile, Marlon Best was awarded General Worker of the Year for the Southern area; Terry Austin for the Central area and Junior Maynard for the Northern area. Jason Best was awarded Operator of the Year; Adrian Dottin, Driver of the Year; Verbena Reid, Supervisor of the Year for the Northern area; Errol Allman, Supervisor of the Year for the Central area; and Sabrina Corbin, Supervisor of the Year for the Southern area.