Public Officers will continue to build healthy working relationships during Public Service Week 2017, which is being held from June 4 to 12 under the theme, “One Public Service:  A Celebration of Togetherness”.

The 2017 theme builds on momentum started last year to foster healthy relationships across the public service demonstrating One Public Service.

The annual event brings together government ministries, departments and statutory bodies for various entertainment activities in addition to recognition ceremonies which highlight the achievements of public officers. 

Over 150 officers will be recognised for their years of service, after working for ten, 25 and 35 years with Government.  An invitation-only Retirees’ Dinner will bid farewell to 70 stalwart public officers.

Mrs. LeTaye Garrin and Ms. Wendy Kelsick from the Ministry of Education and Culture are the co-chairs of this year’s celebrations.  The Office of the Deputy Governor continues to provide support and sponsorship for the annual event.   Speaking on behalf of the co-chairs, Mrs. Garrin shared that they are delighted to serve and are looking forward to this year’s celebrations. 

“We encourage all public officers to get excited about Public Service Week as it promotes unity and camaraderie through the various activities as well as it can improve morale in the Public Service,” she said.

The week begins with a competitive Talent Show at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 4 at the Sir Rupert Briercliffe Hall.  A variety of exciting acts will dazzle attendees. 

Other activities include the ‘Prayers and Recognition for the Public Service’ ceremony, community service projects,  a Family Fun Day, health walk/run, the Head of the Public Service Trivia, Employee Race, a pep-rally, track and field events, dominoes, bingo and an All-Star Basketball Game in Virgin Gorda.  Public officers are to liaise with their team captains to take part in the week’s events.

Public Service Week is held annually to highlight and reward the contributions of public officers to the development of the Virgin Islands.

The team formation for Public Service Week is as follows:

Team A - Panthers:         Ministry of Communications and Works
Team B - Supersonics:   Governor’s Group and Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour
Team C - Warriors:         Ministry of Education and Culture and Ministry of Health and Social Development
Team D - Eagles:           Premier’s Office and Ministry of Finance