What do the Acting Governor, a mosquito researcher, a detective, and a nurse all have in common? Each was among scores of government employees who were recognised last week for lengthy careers in the Cayman Islands public service.
The awardees and their guests were treated to dinner and entertainment at Pedro St. James last Thursday, 26 May. Because no award presentation had taken place since 2007, the recipient list spanned the past three years.
In applauding employees’ individual achievements, Acting Governor the Hon. Donovan Ebanks, MBE, JP said, “We all are grateful for the privilege of serving our people and earning an honest living. There always are seasons when we wish things could be different, but we will continue to do all we can to contribute to the welfare of our Islands.”
He also implored civil service veterans to “impress upon juniors the importance of dedication and commitment.”
The evening honoured almost 200 persons, eight of whom have notably served for at least 40 years. Those stalwarts are Nellie McCoy (the longest-serving civil servant - with 43 years), Lewie Ceato Hydes, Delores Solomon, Francine Gardner, Meredith Hew, Jenodell Myles, Michael Dilbert and Carolyn Parsons.
The late Adora Bodden-Groome and Shirley Dinspel were posthumously honoured for their service.
Also attending the function were Acting Premier and Minister for District Administration, Works, Lands & Agriculture the Hon. Juliana O’Connor-Connolly JP; Minister for Community Affairs, Gender & Housing the Hon. Mike Adam, MBE, JP; and Minister for Health, Environment, Youth, Sports & Culture the Hon. Mark Scotland JP.
Mr. James Watler, president of the Cayman Islands Civil Service Association, which co-sponsored the event, told the gathering, “I thank you for your steadfastness, commitment, loyalty, wisdom, perseverance and burning desire to get the work done. You have done commendable jobs, and can be justly proud.”
Event organiser and Corporate Manager in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Christine Wright thanked all who had assisted her and noted that Cayman Brac’s long-serving officers will be honoured at a luncheon at Brac Reef Beach Resort on Friday, 17 June.
