The COVID-19 Public Service Hero recognition programme which seeks to boost morale and recognise extraordinary work within the Public Service has been launched.

The programme is being spearheaded by the Department of Human Resources and is highlighting the efforts of individual officers, units and departments within the Public Service who have gone the extra mile during the period from March 2020 to present, as the Territory navigates the COVID-19 pandemic.

Director of Human Resources, Mrs. Michelle Donovan Stevens commended the initiative as a necessary, thoughtful and motivational incentive that highlights the efforts, and willingness of outstanding Public Officers.

Mrs. Donovan Stevens said, “It is truly remarkable to witness the great energy, commitment and resilience of the Public Service and Territory.  While we have been experiencing some challenging times, we have been navigating through this COVID-19 pandemic together and many have done so sacrificially to provide assistance and uninterrupted services to our community and clients.”

Human Resources Manager of the Employee Relations Unit, Mrs. Noreen Callwood-Lewis, is encouraging members of the Public Service to nominate any officer or team as a step to recognise and celebrate COVID-19 Heroes.

Mrs. Callwood-Lewis said, “Our Public Service has been an instrumental partner in keeping this Territory functioning during these unprecedented times. Therefore recognising individuals and teams who have exceptionally extended themselves during this pandemic is necessary.”

Special services delivered by a cross-section of Public Officers during the period included Food Distribution Operations, Distribution Call Centre, Social Distancing Taskforce Compliance, Client Support Services for quarantined persons and Port Health Assistance.

Persons can visit https://bvi.gov.vg/content/covid-19-public-service-hero-nomination-form to complete the nomination form and submit electronically to ERU@gov.vg.

The COVID-19 Public Service Heroes contributions will be posted on various forums including the Government of the Virgin Islands webpage and in a special album on the Facebook page.  Honourees will also receive a written commendation.

The Department of Human Resources thanks all public officers, particularly those who have been on the frontline and behind the scenes providing essential services during all stages of the curfew imposed by the Government of the Virgin Islands as it works to keep the Territory safe from the COVID-19 pandemic.