Five new Immigration Department recruits received their badges after completing an intensive six-month training programme. The five new recruits are Jesanna Mencia, Sheria Goff, Alice Edwards, Harry Forbes and Floyd Shaw.
Welcoming the new group, who will augment colleagues at the air and sea ports, Chief Immigration Officer (CIO) Linda Evans encouraged teamwork, courtesy, respect and positive attitudes in their new working environment. In addition to classroom work, the group received practical instruction and cross-training with other unformed agencies.
Required to have a command of local laws as well as an understanding of human behaviour, officers must also be versed in geography, psychology and sociology, insofar as they relate to immigration.Addressing the graduates, Deputy Governor Donovan Ebanks, MBE JP, said, “You have been handed a lot of authority. Be cognizant of that at all time, and don’t abuse it. Guard your reputation and integrity.”
Cautioning graduates that the civil service is held to high standards, he added, “Work hard and develop yourselves to the fullest extent and opportunities will present themselves.”
Former Immigration Chief Franz Manderson who is now Chief Officer in the Portfolio of Internal and External Affairs also congratulated them on their hard work. He said, “Model immigration officers are enthusiastic, professional and committed, and continue to educate themselves while staying abreast of current developments.”
During the ceremony Officer Harry Forbes took the overall achievement award for outstanding performance in theory and practical application. He shared the top academic spot with Officer Alice Edwards. Also attending the ceremony were Deputy CIOs Bruce Smith (Border Control), Samantha Bennett (Administration) and Gary Wong (Enforcement ). HR Manager Martha Bush and other senior representatives were also present.
DCIO Smith encouraged the support of the new officers’ families “as there will be some difficult times and late assignments.” He added, “Customer service is very important. Represent the department well. You will not be able to please everyone, but do your best.”
The training included lectures from both internal and external sources. Attorney Angelyn Hernandez and Senior Immigration Officer Ezron Anderson were recognized for their contributions to the recruits’ training sessions. On behalf of the cohort, Harry Forbes thanked all who supported them during the training, including friends and families. He added, “We’ll strive to not let you down.”
