Turks & Caicos Isl News Letter - The Goverment of the Turks ...
Turks & Caicos Isl News Letter - The Goverment of the Turks ...
Turks & Caicos Isl News Letter - The Goverment of the Turks ...
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A PRODUCT OF THE OFFICE OF PUBLIC SERVICE MANAGEMENT<br />
t<br />
a<br />
m<br />
Mr. Mark Capes<br />
Chief Executive<br />
Dear Colleagues,<br />
A Christmas message from <strong>the</strong> head <strong>of</strong> <strong>The</strong> Public Service<br />
After a demanding and difficult year<br />
for many <strong>of</strong> us, <strong>the</strong> Holy Christmas<br />
season is upon us once again. On<br />
19 November I attended my first<br />
Christmas party <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> season when<br />
I joined <strong>the</strong> staff <strong>of</strong> OPSM at <strong>the</strong><br />
Grand Turk Wellness Centre for a<br />
cheerful and festive occasion. In <strong>the</strong> true<br />
spirit <strong>of</strong> Christmas, <strong>the</strong> staff <strong>of</strong> OPSM<br />
(and <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r Departments under <strong>the</strong><br />
leadership <strong>of</strong> Permanent Secretary<br />
Susan Malcolm) contributed from <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
own funds to provide <strong>the</strong> residents and<br />
staff <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Wellness Centre with an<br />
excellent Christmas party and lunch. I<br />
commend <strong>the</strong>m for <strong>the</strong>ir public spirit and<br />
for reaching out to <strong>the</strong> less fortunate; I<br />
hope we will see similar examples <strong>of</strong><br />
such thoughtfulness and caring for<br />
o<strong>the</strong>rs in <strong>the</strong> weeks ahead.<br />
On <strong>the</strong> financial front we still face many<br />
difficult challenges. As elsewhere in <strong>the</strong><br />
region our economy remains weak as<br />
Continued on page 2<br />
2. OPSM SHARING THE CHRISTMAS CHEER wITH THE<br />
wELLNESS CENTRE.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Office <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Public Service Management (OPSM) brought Christmas joy and<br />
cheer to <strong>the</strong> persons residing at <strong>the</strong> Wllness Centre Unit. OPSM’s staff, despite<br />
<strong>the</strong> harsh economic climate, made personal contributions to host a Christmas<br />
Party for this Unit on Friday, November 19th, 2010. <strong>The</strong>ir primary goal was to give<br />
back to those less fortunate within <strong>the</strong> community and to brighten <strong>the</strong>ir spirits.<br />
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:<br />
* THE APPOINTMENT OF NEW<br />
FINANCIAL OFFICER.<br />
* CHRISTMAS RECIPES.<br />
m a t<br />
* MODIFYING THE RECRUITMENT<br />
PROCESS.<br />
* COMINGS & GOINGS.<br />
ma<br />
t<br />
OPSM joined forces with <strong>the</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong> Health and Human Services to ensure<br />
that <strong>the</strong> residents <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Wllness Centre Unit enjoyed a hearty Christmas meal<br />
and got a special gift basket. Staff and patients sang and danced to Christmas<br />
carols to make it a day <strong>of</strong> merriment!<br />
Acting Governor Mr. Mark Capes shared <strong>the</strong> occasion with <strong>the</strong> clients and<br />
expressed his gratitude to <strong>the</strong> OPSM staff for going beyond <strong>the</strong> call <strong>of</strong> duty and<br />
giving back to <strong>the</strong> community. He said, “As <strong>the</strong> first Christmas party for <strong>the</strong> year,
2. A CHRISTMAS MESSAGE fROM THE HEAd Of THE PubLIC<br />
SERvICE. Continued from page 1<br />
we wea<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> negative effects <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> global recession. This has made it much more<br />
difficult to manage government finances as our revenue has declined. Despite tight<br />
controls, expenditure has continued to exceed our revenue and we must address that<br />
in <strong>the</strong> coming year as we work towards bringing <strong>the</strong> budget back into balance. This will<br />
require more difficult decisions, but we must not shirk our responsibilities if we are to<br />
restore stability and confidence in government finances. We can only build with<br />
confidence if we are building on a firm foundation. However, let me reassure you that I<br />
and your colleagues in <strong>the</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong> Finance recognise that many families are<br />
struggling to get through each month and so we are working hard to ensure that salaries<br />
and any o<strong>the</strong>r payments due to you are paid on time.<br />
While we give thanks that we were fortunate this year to be spared a visit by a major<br />
hurricane, <strong>the</strong> disastrous fire at <strong>the</strong> Ona Glinton Primary School was a severe blow to<br />
<strong>the</strong> Grand Turk community. But, as always, we must work to bring good out <strong>of</strong> this<br />
adversity and to rebuild <strong>the</strong> school as quickly as possible.<br />
A CHRISTMAS PRAYER<br />
Loving Fa<strong>the</strong>r,<br />
Help us remember <strong>the</strong> birth <strong>of</strong> Jesus,<br />
that we may share in <strong>the</strong> song <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> angels,<br />
<strong>the</strong> gladness <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> shepherds,<br />
and worship <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> wise men.<br />
Close <strong>the</strong> door <strong>of</strong> hate and open <strong>the</strong> door<br />
<strong>of</strong> love all over <strong>the</strong> world. Let kindness come with<br />
every gift and good desires with every greeting.<br />
Deliver us from evil by <strong>the</strong> blessing which Christ<br />
brings, and teach us to be merry with clear hearts.<br />
May <strong>the</strong> Christmas morning make us happy to be<br />
thy children, and Christmas evening bring us to our<br />
beds with grateful thoughts, forgiving and forgiven,<br />
for Jesus' sake.<br />
Amen.<br />
by Robert Louis Stevenson<br />
I wish each <strong>of</strong> you and your families a happy, safe and enjoyable Christmas holiday and<br />
look forward to working with you in <strong>the</strong> New Year as we strive to improve our service<br />
to <strong>the</strong> people <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands.<br />
Best wishes,<br />
Mark Capes<br />
Chief Executive<br />
<strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands Government<br />
2. OPSM SHARING THE CHRISTMAS CHEER wITH THE<br />
wELLNESS CENTRE Continued from page 1<br />
t m<br />
a<br />
it is most fitting to recognise <strong>the</strong> elderly and those less fortunate within our<br />
community. This event expresses <strong>the</strong> true meaning <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Christmas spirit.” He<br />
added that he hoped o<strong>the</strong>r Ministries and Departments would follow in this pattern<br />
<strong>of</strong> sharing during this holy and blessed period.<br />
Permanent Secretary in <strong>the</strong> OPSM, Ms. Susan Malcolm also expressed her sincere<br />
gratitude and thanks to everyone for <strong>the</strong>ir noble act <strong>of</strong> kindness and gave <strong>the</strong><br />
assurance that o<strong>the</strong>r similar events will be held, as OPSM continues to reach out to<br />
those less fortunate in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Wllness Centre Unit provides support to <strong>the</strong> elderly and disabled and currently<br />
has 17 persons under its care.<br />
EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE 2
1.CAPACITY buILdING wORKSHOP fOR TuRKS ANd CAICOS GOvERNMENT’S SECRETARIAL<br />
ANd CLERICAL STAff<br />
<strong>The</strong> Training and Development division continues to work diligently towards ensuring that<br />
all <strong>of</strong>ficers <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> & <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands Public Service are properly trained and developed<br />
to meet <strong>the</strong> demands <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> job.<br />
Capacity Building Training opportunities were extended to <strong>Turks</strong> & <strong>Caicos</strong> Government’s<br />
Secretarial and Clerical Staff.<br />
<strong>The</strong> participants were exposed to a very vigorous lesson plan which encompassed a<br />
number <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>oretical concepts, models and practical exercises. Main Topics covered<br />
included Handling Conflict, Managing Time, Presentation Skills, Preparation <strong>of</strong> Personal<br />
Development Plans, Assertive Communication, Smart Objectives, Smart Stream<br />
Procedures and Saving and Investing for <strong>the</strong> Future.<br />
Officers have been awarded Certificates <strong>of</strong> Achievement for successfully attending and<br />
completing <strong>the</strong> Capacity Building Training Program for Secretarial and Clerical Staff 2010.<br />
“Keep steadily before you <strong>the</strong> fact that all true success depends at last upon yourself”.<br />
<strong>The</strong>odore T. Hunger<br />
2. TuRKS & CAICOS ISLANdS GOvERNMENT’S AdMINISTRATIvE OffICERS RECEIvE<br />
CERITIfICATES.<br />
On August 20, 2010, certificates were awarded by <strong>the</strong> Training Unit <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Office <strong>of</strong> Public Service Management to twenty Administrative<br />
Officers who successfully completed a seven day Leadership Development Programme, conducted by Sue Treharne and Mr. Oliver<br />
Quentin from <strong>the</strong> UK School <strong>of</strong> Government. Please see pictures below:<br />
EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE<br />
3
3. THE OffICE Of PubLIC SERvICE MANGAGEMENT PARTNERS wITH THE TuRKS ANd CAICOS<br />
ISLANdS COMMuNITY COLLEGE<br />
<strong>The</strong> TCICC has been <strong>of</strong>fering courses in<br />
Business Writing Skills and Customer<br />
Service Essentials at both <strong>the</strong> Providenciales<br />
and Grand Turk Campus. <strong>The</strong>se courses are<br />
funded by <strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong> Government to<br />
all qualifying persons within <strong>the</strong> Service.<br />
Since <strong>the</strong> inception <strong>of</strong> this endeavor in<br />
January 2010 some ninety (90) persons from<br />
Government Ministries and Departments<br />
have successfully completed and awarded<br />
Certificates in Business Writing Skills and<br />
Customer Service Essentials.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Office <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Public Service<br />
Management’s Training and<br />
Development Unit has joined forces<br />
with <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> & <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands Community<br />
College (TCICC) to assist with <strong>the</strong> Training<br />
and Development initiatives aimed at<br />
fostering a more robust Public Service.<br />
“It is Christmas in <strong>the</strong> heart that puts Christmas in <strong>the</strong> air”.<br />
W. T. Ellis<br />
4. uTILISING INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS TO buILd CAPACITY Of TuRKS ANd CAICOS<br />
ISLANdS STAff<br />
<strong>The</strong> last two (2) years has posed a challenge to build capacity<br />
amongst Public Officers in <strong>the</strong> Service, especially given <strong>the</strong><br />
imminent financial constraints. This has compelled <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and<br />
<strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands Government to streng<strong>the</strong>n its ties with International<br />
Organisations to assist in building capacity within our Public<br />
Service. This Joint Venture has proved to be quite fruitful as<br />
Officers from our Public Service got <strong>the</strong> chance to attend training<br />
programs, forums and seminars that were fully financed by<br />
International Bodies. It also provided <strong>the</strong>se Officers with ample<br />
opportunity to liaise with o<strong>the</strong>r regional members attending <strong>the</strong><br />
course and learn from <strong>the</strong>m. Below is a list <strong>of</strong> Public Officers who<br />
benefitted from such programs within <strong>the</strong> last three (3) months.<br />
• Mr. Larry Mills and Ms. Sigrid Lightbourne from <strong>the</strong><br />
Ministry <strong>of</strong> Control and Labour attended a Best Practice on Civil<br />
Registration Conference, sponsored by OAS (Organization<br />
American States) and UNICEF (United Nations International<br />
Children’s Fund) in Grenada, September 26th through September<br />
28th, 2010.<br />
• Mr. Jude St. Ville from <strong>the</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong> Health and Human<br />
Services attended a Dengue Prevention and Control workshop,<br />
sponsored by PAHO (Pan American Health Organization) and WHO<br />
(World Health Organization) in Barbados, October 13th through<br />
October 15h, 2010.<br />
• Mr. Maurice Ingram from Ministry <strong>of</strong> Education attended a<br />
Control Men’s Health in <strong>the</strong> Context <strong>of</strong> Sexual Diversity workshop,<br />
sponsored by PAHO (Pan American Health Organization) in<br />
Trinidad, August 9th through August 13th, 2010.<br />
• Mr. Carey Skippings from Ministry <strong>of</strong> Environmental and<br />
District Administration attended a Ratification Implementation and<br />
Enforcement <strong>of</strong> MARPOL 73/78 Annex I & V workshop, sponsored<br />
by IMO (International Maritime Organization) in Jamaica, October<br />
27th through October 28th, 2010.<br />
EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE<br />
4
1. fORMATION Of AN IMMIGRATION<br />
APPEALS COMMITTEE<br />
An Immigration Appeals Committee was established in June <strong>of</strong><br />
this year to handle matters relating to <strong>the</strong> refusal <strong>of</strong> Labour<br />
Clearances.<br />
An employer who wishes to challenge <strong>the</strong> decision <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Labour Department not to grant a request to issue a Labour<br />
Clearance can appeal in writing to <strong>the</strong> Appeal Tribunal.<br />
2. THE CREATION Of A CROwN LANd<br />
ALLOCATION REGISTER<br />
On 2nd July 2010, <strong>The</strong> Government <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong><br />
<strong>Isl</strong>and announced <strong>the</strong> publication <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> first edition <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> new<br />
Crown Land Allocation Register, produced by <strong>the</strong> Crown Land<br />
Unit, a Department <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong> Environment and District<br />
Administration. <strong>The</strong> register sets out information in relation to<br />
Crown land that has been allocated by way <strong>of</strong> grant or lease to<br />
private individuals or corporations and for <strong>the</strong> first time can be<br />
accessed easily, over <strong>the</strong> internet.<br />
3. APPROvAL TO dEvELOP ANd<br />
IMPLEMENT A NATIONAL ENERGY<br />
CONSERvATION POLICY<br />
<strong>The</strong> British Overseas Territories Environmental Programme<br />
has approved funding for a project proposal to develop a<br />
National Energy Conservation Policy and Implementation<br />
Strategy for <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands.<br />
<strong>The</strong> project focuses on reducing <strong>the</strong> island's dependence on<br />
fossil fuels, and increasing energy-efficiency and energy<br />
conservation by promoting energy efficient technologies and<br />
usage. It is expected that more sustainable patterns <strong>of</strong> power<br />
consumption and production would be established for <strong>the</strong><br />
benefit <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands’ population, <strong>the</strong><br />
Government and <strong>the</strong> business community after <strong>the</strong> formulation<br />
and implementation <strong>of</strong> such a policy.<br />
4. THE ESTAbLISHMENT Of A SPECIAL<br />
NEEdS fOCuS GROuP<br />
As part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> overall goal to<br />
improve <strong>the</strong> lives <strong>of</strong> persons<br />
living with disabilities, a Special<br />
Needs Focus Group has been<br />
established in <strong>the</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong><br />
Health and Human Services. <strong>The</strong><br />
Special Needs Focus Group<br />
meets quarterly and comprises a cross-section <strong>of</strong> public<br />
servants and community stewarts.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Group is tasked with developing a Management Plan for<br />
<strong>the</strong> Special Needs Department; organizing public awareness<br />
and outreach efforts for <strong>the</strong> general public and families <strong>of</strong><br />
persons with disabilities as well as streng<strong>the</strong>ning partnerships<br />
with Non Governmental Organizations<br />
Club and <strong>the</strong> One World Foundation.<br />
such as <strong>the</strong> Rotary<br />
Ms. Barbara Higgs, <strong>the</strong> Under Secretary attached to <strong>the</strong><br />
Ministry <strong>of</strong> Home Affairs commented that, “<strong>The</strong> establishment<br />
<strong>of</strong> a Special Needs Focus Group is an effective way to assess<br />
<strong>the</strong> success <strong>of</strong> such social programs. This group will be<br />
responsible for evaluating initiatives / programs and strategies,<br />
which in turn would allow <strong>the</strong> Ministry to identify ways to<br />
improve <strong>the</strong> quality <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> initiatives / programs and make <strong>the</strong>m<br />
more responsive to <strong>the</strong> needs <strong>of</strong> its users”.<br />
EXCELLENCE IN<br />
5
5. PRISON SECuRITY STRATEGY<br />
<strong>The</strong> Prison Service is in <strong>the</strong> process <strong>of</strong> developing a new<br />
Security Strategy. This strategy will put in place structured<br />
security procedures to ensure <strong>the</strong> safety <strong>of</strong> staff, prisoners, <strong>the</strong><br />
visiting public and <strong>the</strong> wider community.<br />
<strong>The</strong> prison has also developed a work plan for <strong>the</strong> coming 12<br />
months with a strong focus on effective management,<br />
development <strong>of</strong> staff, and <strong>the</strong> welfare and rehabilitation <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>of</strong>fenders. Special emphasis will be placed on community<br />
payback.<br />
6. THE APPOINTMENT Of A NEw CHIEf<br />
fINANCIAL OffICER<br />
A new Chief Financial Officer, Ms. Caroline Gardiner was<br />
appointed to <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands Government on <strong>the</strong><br />
20th September, 2010. Ms. Gardner has vast years <strong>of</strong><br />
experience and financial expertise having served as Deputy<br />
Auditor General and Controller <strong>of</strong> Audit for Scotland.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Chief Financial Officer will take responsibility for all<br />
financial decisions for <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands<br />
Government, under <strong>the</strong> authority <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Governor. Ms. Gardner<br />
will work to streng<strong>the</strong>n <strong>the</strong> Government’s capacity and systems<br />
to manage its public finances and balance its budget within <strong>the</strong><br />
next three years.<br />
“ Christmas won't be Christmas<br />
without any presents”.<br />
Louisa May Alcott<br />
7. THE fIRE SERvICE CONduCTS AN INTENSIvE RECRuITMENT EXERCISE fOR NEw RECRuITS<br />
A number <strong>of</strong> residents <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands (TCI) got an<br />
opportunity to engage in a recent intensive recruitment exercise for<br />
entry to <strong>the</strong> TCI Fire Service. <strong>The</strong> applicants were put through a<br />
wide ranging programme <strong>of</strong> activities which included practical tests,<br />
written exams, physical drills, dexterity tests for various parts <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
body as well as problem solving skills. <strong>The</strong> exercises were<br />
conducted on Grand Turk and on Providenciales, which hosted<br />
participants from North and South <strong>Caicos</strong>.<br />
<strong>The</strong> TCI Fire Service currently has just over eighty (80) fire <strong>of</strong>ficers<br />
and it is awaiting <strong>the</strong> new recruits from <strong>the</strong> recent exercise. Fire<br />
<strong>of</strong>ficers have so far responded to more than ninety (90) calls this<br />
year, with <strong>the</strong> highest numbers related to bush fires, vehicle and<br />
boat fires, and road traffic accidents.<br />
Successful applicants will boost <strong>the</strong> numbers <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> TCI Fire<br />
Department as it strives to maintain a high quality delivery <strong>of</strong> service<br />
throughout <strong>the</strong> islands. Speaking at <strong>the</strong> start <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Grand Turk<br />
exercise, Under Secretary in <strong>the</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong> Home Affairs and Public<br />
Safety Barbara Higgs said that, “A firefighter has to be able to work<br />
well with o<strong>the</strong>rs and take orders without attitude. A firefighter needs<br />
to be able to handle a lot <strong>of</strong> stress and stay calm when situations<br />
are dangerous and threatening. <strong>The</strong> most important quality <strong>the</strong>y<br />
must have however is <strong>the</strong> ability to be empa<strong>the</strong>tic towards o<strong>the</strong>rs<br />
and be supportive when things are falling apart.”<br />
EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE 6
EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE<br />
7
Enjoying <strong>the</strong> holiday without putting on pounds<br />
We all head into <strong>the</strong> holidays vowing not to overeat, but <strong>the</strong>n we're ambushed from every<br />
direction by delectable goodies. "Have just one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se conch fritters," a friend insists. "What<br />
You don't want to try my lasagna" Or: "Look what came from Nassau — a guava duff!"<br />
No one wants to pack on <strong>the</strong> four to seven pounds many women gain between Thanksgiving<br />
and New Year's, but it's hard to munch on carrots when everyone else is chowing down on<br />
baked ham. Here are some tips on how not to put on <strong>the</strong> extra weight during this festive time:<br />
(1) Make Smart Choices<br />
Select <strong>the</strong> best <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> holiday <strong>of</strong>ferings and pass up foods that are available throughout <strong>the</strong> year.<br />
Don’t starve yourself <strong>the</strong> family dinner. Instead, cut down on calories <strong>the</strong> week before <strong>the</strong> dinner<br />
e.g. simply giving up a can <strong>of</strong> coke for seven days would save you 980 calories. Walking for<br />
an extra 15 minutes each day will "pay" for at least one slice <strong>of</strong> fruitcake.<br />
(2) Complement Your Foods with Some Fruits and Vegetables<br />
Try to at least have some salads or mixed vegetables with your meats during this season.<br />
(3) Quench Your Thirst<br />
First, quench your thirst by sipping a tall glass <strong>of</strong> sparkling water while you check out <strong>the</strong><br />
options. Have a glass <strong>of</strong> wine or Champagne.<br />
(3) Eat Sensibly<br />
Here are some useful tips:<br />
• Enjoy <strong>the</strong> bread but not <strong>the</strong> butter;<br />
• Eat <strong>the</strong> vegetable but skip <strong>the</strong> dip;<br />
• Devour <strong>the</strong> dessert but lose <strong>the</strong> whipped cream;<br />
• Taste <strong>the</strong> turkey but toss <strong>the</strong> skin; and<br />
• Savor <strong>the</strong> potato but forget about sour cream.<br />
(4) Don't Save <strong>the</strong> Best for Last<br />
This is one time you shouldn't save <strong>the</strong> best for last. Even if you've filled up on appetizers,<br />
you'll rarely have <strong>the</strong> strength to say no to <strong>the</strong> holiday treat you've been panting for all night.<br />
On <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r hand, if you begin with your No. 1 choice from <strong>the</strong> buffet, you probably won't be<br />
tempted by <strong>the</strong> Cake platters afterwards<br />
(5) Don’t Punish Yourself<br />
If you really can't resist <strong>the</strong> leftover piece <strong>of</strong> cheese cake sitting in your fridge, <strong>the</strong>n have it for<br />
lunch, not after lunch. No, it's not nutritionally balanced, but one sugar- and fat-laden, vitaminand<br />
mineral-deficient meal won't kill you.<br />
EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE<br />
8
In July 2010, <strong>the</strong> Office <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Public Service Management’s<br />
Executive Team met with Ms. Jennifer Astaphan, CARICAD’s<br />
Regional Director who has been carded with <strong>the</strong> responsibility <strong>of</strong><br />
assisting <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> & <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands in reviewing its General<br />
Orders.<br />
Ms. Karen Dalton, Mr. David Archer and Ms. Shavon Henley, who<br />
are all Senior Officials from <strong>the</strong> Human Resource Department <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> British Virgin <strong>Isl</strong>ands (B.V.I) Public Service, accompanied Ms.<br />
Astaphan on her visit to <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands.<br />
Our colleagues from <strong>the</strong> B.V.I used this opportunity to relay a<br />
number <strong>of</strong> policies, procedures and best practices that <strong>the</strong>y have<br />
incorporated and deemed successful within <strong>the</strong>ir ‘Public Service<br />
Code’, which is a modernized version <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> traditional General<br />
Orders.<br />
A Memorandum <strong>of</strong> Understanding (MOU) has been prepared to<br />
streng<strong>the</strong>n this relationship between <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands<br />
Public Service, <strong>the</strong> British Virgin <strong>Isl</strong>ands Public Service and o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
Overseas Territory members. It is hoped that this will streng<strong>the</strong>n<br />
ties with our counterparts as we share information, knowledge<br />
and skills with our colleagues to fur<strong>the</strong>r develop <strong>the</strong> Overseas<br />
Territories and achieve our set mandates.<br />
“ At Christmas play, and make<br />
good cheer, For Christmas comes<br />
but once a year”.<br />
Thomas Tusser<br />
2. TCIG COLLAbORATES wITH OvERSEAS<br />
TERRITORIES TO PROMOTE CHILd SAfETY<br />
<strong>The</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong> Home Affairs is at <strong>the</strong> forefront <strong>of</strong> a project to<br />
safeguard and protect <strong>the</strong> children and young adults in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong><br />
and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands. <strong>The</strong> project is referred to as Safeguarding<br />
Children in <strong>the</strong> Overseas Territories and is in collaboration with <strong>the</strong><br />
UK Overseas Territories Anguilla and Montserrat, with support from<br />
<strong>the</strong> UK Department for International Development (DFID).<br />
A working committee that was formed earlier this year to manage<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands (TCI) component <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> project<br />
decided to make use <strong>of</strong> an e-learning programme that trains and<br />
certifies individuals in <strong>the</strong> field <strong>of</strong> child protection.<br />
A series <strong>of</strong> six one-day seminars on child abuse and child<br />
safeguarding have so far been delivered to more than one hundred<br />
(100) local pr<strong>of</strong>essionals, drawn from <strong>the</strong> Police, Social Services,<br />
Education, Health, and Non-Governmental Agencies, who may<br />
deal with children in <strong>the</strong> course <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir work.<br />
<strong>The</strong> seminars covered recognition, investigation, management and<br />
prevention <strong>of</strong> child abuse and neglect and how all <strong>the</strong> agencies can<br />
work toge<strong>the</strong>r to protect children. Participants also discussed<br />
lessons learned in o<strong>the</strong>r countries about safeguarding children.<br />
EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE<br />
9
1. OPSM’S uSE Of SKYPE AS A MEANS Of vIdEO CONfERENCING AS PART Of ITS<br />
INTERvIEw PROCESS<br />
In light <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> prevailing financial climate, <strong>the</strong> Office <strong>of</strong> Public Service Management (OPSM) has been<br />
looking at innovative ways <strong>of</strong> reducing expenditure especially regarding its Recruitment and Selection<br />
Process. OPSM has implemented <strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong> SKYPE, a Video Conferencing tool to hold interviews with<br />
prospective candidates locally, regionally as well as internationally. This new change in <strong>the</strong> way incumbents<br />
are interviewed for positions in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands Government is expected to save <strong>the</strong><br />
Government on <strong>the</strong> costs <strong>of</strong> airfare for interviewees as well as for members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> interview panel. Members<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> interview panel can communicate with candidates and at <strong>the</strong> same time see who <strong>the</strong>y are interviewing<br />
without <strong>the</strong> person being physically present in <strong>the</strong> room.<br />
Dr. Beatrice Fulford<br />
Permanent Secretary<br />
Ministry <strong>of</strong> Education<br />
Dr. Beatrice Fulford, <strong>the</strong> Permanent Secretary attached to <strong>the</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong> Education sat on a few interviews<br />
where this Video Conferencing tool was utilized. She commented that, “Skype is a very user-friendly,<br />
interesting, and effective medium <strong>of</strong> conducting interviews. One <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> greatest benefits is that we were able to do far more with less,<br />
in a climate <strong>of</strong> dwindling financial resources, without compromising <strong>the</strong> quality and outcome <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> interviews. I believe that Skype is<br />
particularly useful and will realize phenomenal savings in cases where a very small number <strong>of</strong> candidates are to be interviewed and a<br />
panel larger than <strong>the</strong> number <strong>of</strong> candidates being interviewed may be required to travel. It also allows more staff (and <strong>the</strong> right staff)<br />
to be involved in <strong>the</strong> process where o<strong>the</strong>rwise <strong>the</strong>y would not have participated, due to cost factors. I encourage Ministries that have not<br />
yet used Skype for conducting <strong>the</strong>ir interviews to do so”.<br />
2. PARTNERING wITH OuR REGIONAL COuNTERPARTS TO ASSIST wITH RECRuITMENT ANd<br />
SELECTION.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Office <strong>of</strong> Public Service Management (OPSM) has taken more steps to ensure that recruitment costs<br />
are reduced, whilst at <strong>the</strong> same time guarantee that <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands Government obtains value<br />
for money. <strong>The</strong> Permanent Secretary / OPSM highlighted that, “Over <strong>the</strong> years we have maintained close<br />
links and relationships with our regional counterparts and have collaborated on many similar issues affecting<br />
our countries. Presently we are all experiencing very challenging economic times and are seeking ways to<br />
reduce our costs and overheads. Partnering with our counterparts in our recruitment process will enable us<br />
to continue to carry out this process with transparency, alacrity and in a more cost effective manner”.<br />
Mrs. Susan Malcolm<br />
Permanent Secretary<br />
<strong>The</strong> Office <strong>of</strong> Public Service Management<br />
<strong>The</strong> Permanent Secretary / OPSM as well as <strong>the</strong> Human Resource Specialist have forged<br />
links with our Caribbean counterpart, <strong>The</strong> Government Human Resource Services Company<br />
Limited <strong>of</strong> Trinidad and Tobago in an effort to reduce its recruitment costs. <strong>The</strong> Recruitment Drive this<br />
year was different as only one member from <strong>the</strong> interview panel went to strategic locations in <strong>the</strong> Caribbean to sit with <strong>the</strong> candidates and<br />
interview <strong>the</strong>m, whilst <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r panel members joined <strong>the</strong> interview process via <strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong> tele-conferencing.<br />
GHRS, due to its strategic location was chosen so that candidates from <strong>the</strong> different Caribbean Regions could ga<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>re and be<br />
interviewed using GHRS’ facilities. <strong>The</strong> GHRS Team was very efficient in making <strong>the</strong> logistical arrangements for <strong>the</strong> interviews. OPSM is<br />
also liaising with this company to send persons <strong>of</strong>f on attachments as well as to benefit from a number <strong>of</strong> Training Programs in <strong>the</strong> very<br />
near future.<br />
This Office is also currently communicating with Trevor Hamilton and Company Limited from Jamaica to forge more strategic alliances that<br />
will not only save TCIG on excessive costs, but would foster greater relations between our Caribbean bro<strong>the</strong>rs and sisters.<br />
EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE<br />
10
3. MOdIfYING THE RECRuITMENT PROCESS TO ENSuRE bELONGERS GET fIRST<br />
PREfERENCE AS wELL AS ENSuRING vALuE fOR MONEY.<br />
Mr. Eugene Otuonye<br />
Chairman<br />
Public Service Commission<br />
Over <strong>the</strong> years,<br />
<strong>the</strong>re have been<br />
many challenges<br />
associated with<br />
obtaining <strong>the</strong> right<br />
incumbents to fill vacant<br />
positions in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong><br />
and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands<br />
Public Service. Some <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong>se hurdles can also<br />
be directly attributed to<br />
<strong>the</strong> anomalies in <strong>the</strong><br />
Scholarships Process, where too many persons were sent away<br />
to study areas that were not critical to Government. As a result<br />
<strong>of</strong> Belongers not possessing <strong>the</strong> requisite skills in <strong>the</strong> required<br />
areas, <strong>the</strong> Government was forced to look outward to fill critical<br />
positions in <strong>the</strong> Service.<br />
<strong>The</strong> OPSM is quite aware <strong>of</strong> this and has forged links with <strong>the</strong><br />
Public Service Commission, <strong>the</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong> Education and o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
Government Entities in an effort to build capacity amongst locals<br />
to fill critical positions in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands<br />
Government (TCIG). <strong>The</strong>re are several achievements that can<br />
be highlighted this year, which are listed as follows:<br />
(i) A number <strong>of</strong> locals were recruited from <strong>the</strong> Community<br />
College as well as students returning from studying overseas to<br />
fill positions as teachers in <strong>the</strong> various Primary and Secondary<br />
Schools. <strong>The</strong>se new teachers were placed in strategic locations<br />
in <strong>the</strong> various schools so that <strong>the</strong>y would be closely monitored,<br />
coached and mentored by <strong>the</strong> more ‘seasoned teachers’ in that<br />
environment. It is expected that in <strong>the</strong> next few years, <strong>the</strong>re<br />
would be more locals recruited in <strong>the</strong> teaching arena, <strong>the</strong>reby<br />
reducing <strong>the</strong> number <strong>of</strong> expatriates in this area.<br />
climate, it is deemed more financially prudent to recruit locals<br />
and invest in training <strong>the</strong>m to successfully climb up <strong>the</strong> ladder to<br />
hold more senior positions in years to come.<br />
<strong>The</strong>se initiatives are in keeping with <strong>the</strong> Recruitment Policy <strong>of</strong><br />
giving Belongers first preference as well as building capacity<br />
and competency amongst our people, wherein lies <strong>the</strong> future <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Public Service.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Public Service Commission (PSC) highlighted in a meeting<br />
held in April 2010 that <strong>the</strong> renewal <strong>of</strong> contracts for expatriate<br />
workers comes with it “…<strong>the</strong> distinct understanding that within<br />
this period and as part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> term <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> renewed contract, <strong>the</strong><br />
Officer should mentor, train and monitor <strong>the</strong> pr<strong>of</strong>essional and<br />
skill advancement <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> local Officers already in <strong>the</strong> Department<br />
or those expected to return to <strong>the</strong> Department in <strong>the</strong> not to<br />
distant future”.<br />
f<br />
f<br />
Christmas gift suggestions:<br />
To your enemy, forgiveness.<br />
To an opponent, tolerance.<br />
To a friend, your heart.<br />
To a customer, service.<br />
To all, charity.<br />
To every child, a good example.<br />
To yourself, respect.<br />
Oren Arnold<br />
f<br />
f<br />
(ii) Some returning students who possess a legal background<br />
was also interviewed and chosen to fill positions as Crown<br />
Counsels in <strong>the</strong> Attorney General Chambers. <strong>The</strong>se students<br />
are expected to be coached and mentored by <strong>the</strong>ir Superiors to<br />
ensure upward mobility <strong>of</strong> locals in <strong>the</strong> Chambers.<br />
(iii) Assessment exercises and interviews have been held to<br />
recruit locals for entry level positions in critical areas such as <strong>the</strong><br />
Prisons and <strong>the</strong> Fire Department. Given <strong>the</strong> turbulent economic<br />
EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE<br />
11
Nickson Dickenson<br />
Deputy Youth Director<br />
Youth Department<br />
Aprit Thomas<br />
Psychologist – Department <strong>of</strong> Mental<br />
Health and Substance Abuse<br />
Tiara McTaire<br />
Deputy Director <strong>of</strong><br />
Counsellor – Department <strong>of</strong> mental<br />
Health and Substance Abuse<br />
Ryan Williams<br />
System Analyst/Programmer<br />
Computer Unit<br />
Sippiano Forbes<br />
Trainee Press Officer<br />
Government Press Office<br />
Kissia Thomas<br />
Secondary Teacher<br />
Education Department<br />
Martha Forbes<br />
Secondary Teacher<br />
Education Department<br />
Claudell Seymour<br />
Secondary Teacher<br />
Education Department<br />
Daryll Williams<br />
Secondary Teacher<br />
Education Department<br />
Mark Nicolas<br />
Secondary Teacher<br />
Education Department<br />
Jasmine Malcolm<br />
Primary Teacher<br />
Education Department<br />
Latanya Lewis<br />
Primary Teacher<br />
Education Department<br />
Sherma Jennings<br />
Primary Teacher<br />
Education Department<br />
Merlissa Francis<br />
Primary Teacher<br />
Education Department<br />
Ruthanna Williams<br />
Primary Teacher<br />
Education Department<br />
Alliate Michel<br />
Primary Teacher<br />
Education Department<br />
Shakita Misick<br />
Clinical Nurse – Ambulance Service<br />
and Special Needs Department<br />
Prestianna Cox<br />
Emergency Medical Technician –<br />
Emergency Medical Services<br />
Martika Boyce<br />
Emergency Medical Technician –<br />
Emergency Medical Services<br />
Leonard Smith<br />
Emergency Medical Technician –<br />
Emergency Medical Services<br />
EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE<br />
12
TERRY SELVER<br />
UNDER SECRETARY – MINISTRY OF<br />
TOURISM, TRADE AND COMMUNICATIONS<br />
STEWARD TAYLOR<br />
COLLECTOR OF CUSTOM<br />
CUSTOMS DEPARTMENT<br />
XAVIER MALCOLM<br />
ACTING DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING AND<br />
MAINTENANCE SERVICES<br />
NEROY KENNEDY<br />
ACTING DIRECTOR OF HOUSING<br />
DEPARTMENT<br />
IAN ASTWOOD<br />
ACTING DIRECTOR OF PLANNING<br />
DEPARTMENT<br />
<strong>The</strong> Office <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Public Service Management would like to seize this opportunity<br />
to welcome all new employees to <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> & <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands Government (TCIG)<br />
Public Service. Once again welcome and we look forward to your assistance<br />
towards our quest <strong>of</strong> achieving a more efficient and effective Public Service.<br />
EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE 13
DEREK BEEN<br />
MINISTRY OF WORKS, HOUSING AND UTILITIES.<br />
DENNIS SIMMONS<br />
ENGINEERING AND MAINTENANCE SERVICES<br />
STACEY ROBINSON<br />
SUPERVISOR<br />
(29/08/55)<br />
DUDLEY BEEN<br />
CLERK TO CONSULTATIVE FORUM<br />
TRAVIS PARKER<br />
COMPUTER UNIT.<br />
RITA GARDINER<br />
GENDER AFFAIRS COORDINATOR<br />
(21/11/55)<br />
CECELIA ASHTON HALL<br />
TEACHER<br />
(30/09/55)<br />
ANTHONY HISLOP<br />
TEACHER<br />
(12/08/55)<br />
SHENIQUA TAYLOR<br />
JUDICIAL DEPARTMENT<br />
GRISILDA FORBES<br />
DEPUTY REGISTRAR OF LANDS<br />
(26/12/55)<br />
JOHN MALCOLM<br />
DRUG INFORMATION OFFICER<br />
(13/05/54)<br />
ANNIE HALL<br />
SECRETARY<br />
(20/12/55)<br />
VILLAMAY DANIEL<br />
TRUANCY OFFICER<br />
(13/05/56)<br />
JULIET ALEXANDER<br />
TEACHER<br />
(29/12/55)<br />
ELIzA DOUGHTY<br />
SENIOR IMMIGRATION OFFICER<br />
(15/12/55)<br />
<strong>The</strong> Office <strong>of</strong> Public Service Management (OPSM) bids farewell to <strong>the</strong> above public<br />
servants who provided dedicated service during <strong>the</strong>ir tenure with <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong><br />
<strong>Isl</strong>and Government. Your sincere commitment and valuable contribution towards <strong>the</strong><br />
development <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands will not be forgotten.<br />
EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE<br />
14
Thousands <strong>of</strong> years ago a message was delivered to herald <strong>the</strong> birth<br />
<strong>of</strong> A New King, “Peace on Earth and Goodwill towards men”, was<br />
what <strong>the</strong> Angles had to say. Those sentiments that were echoed in<br />
<strong>the</strong> message are repeated millions <strong>of</strong> times around this time and have<br />
come to represent an expectation for <strong>the</strong> Christmas Season: Peace<br />
and Goodwill.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Management and Staff <strong>of</strong> <strong>The</strong> Office <strong>of</strong> Public Service<br />
Management (OPSM) is extending this greeting to you and your<br />
families during this holy and sacred time <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> year. Despite <strong>the</strong><br />
present challenges that we as a country and indeed <strong>the</strong> world is<br />
facing, <strong>the</strong> wish for peace and goodwill more than ever has a place<br />
in our hearts and lives.<br />
OPSM wishes to thank all <strong>of</strong> you who have read this newsletter, or<br />
contributed in anyway to making it a success; an avenue for Public<br />
Servants to air <strong>the</strong>ir views; a means through which <strong>the</strong> Public as a<br />
whole can be informed and educated as well as a channel aimed at<br />
streng<strong>the</strong>ning <strong>the</strong> links between Ministries, Departments and <strong>the</strong><br />
public as whole.<br />
<strong>The</strong> OPSM urges you to extend this sentiment to:<br />
• Those less fortunate in <strong>the</strong> community;<br />
• Those who are lonely and have no relatives to spend time with<br />
during this festive season;<br />
• Those who are away from <strong>the</strong>ir native countries or from friends<br />
and family members; as well as<br />
• Extend <strong>the</strong> warmth and cheer <strong>of</strong> this holiday season to your<br />
colleagues, friends, leaders and those in authority.<br />
TCIG Times wants you to continue sending your contributions to us!<br />
Help us share your hard work with o<strong>the</strong>rs as we strive to achieve<br />
excellence in our Public Service! It is because <strong>of</strong> your hard work and<br />
dedication that TCIG Times is a success and we applaud you for it.<br />
Church Folly<br />
Grand Turk<br />
<strong>Turks</strong> and <strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands<br />
B.W.I.<br />
T:649.946.2801<br />
F:649.946.1582<br />
E:opsm@gov.tc<br />
Special thanks go out to <strong>the</strong> dedicated<br />
staff <strong>of</strong> OPSM for <strong>the</strong>ir contributions<br />
to making this newsletter a success.<br />
We also wish to acknowledge all<br />
those public servants who provided<br />
information for <strong>the</strong> production <strong>of</strong> this<br />
newsletter.<br />
Again, Merry Christmas, Peace and Goodwill to all! May <strong>the</strong> New<br />
Year usher us in hope, happiness, prosperity and financial<br />
abundance both in our private lives as well as in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Turks</strong> and<br />
<strong>Caicos</strong> <strong>Isl</strong>ands Government!<br />
EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE<br />
15