Civil servants honoured

Scores of civil servants who have served for 25 years and more have been recognised by the Government for their long and dedicated service to the public sector.

At a ceremony held at King's House on Wednesday, the recipients were presented with plaques by Governor General, Sir Patrick Allen; Prime Minister Andrew Holness; Minister of Finance and the Public Service Audley Shaw; Minister of State with responsibility for the Public Service Rudyard Spencer; and Dr Peter Phillips, who represented Leader of the Opposition Portia Simpson.

Spencer commended the civil servants, noting that they have "served Jamaica faithfully".

He said the large turnout at the event underscores how "important our public officers are and how much their services are appreciated". Spencer told the gathering that the country must continue to change in its pursuit of excellence as the Government continues to invest in technology to create easier access to public service.

"We will also continue to invest in our public officers so that we can unleash the best in creativity and ingenuity," he said.

Spencer emphasised that in the process of delivering excellent service, the policy of cost-cutting must also be pursued.

The Long Service Awards Ceremony was held to end Civil Service Week, which was celebrated from November 20 to 26 under the theme 'Driving Change, Celebrating Excellence in a Transformed Public Service'.