The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Tom Marshall, Minister Responsible for the Human Resource Secretariat:

Minister Recognizes Public Service Week

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise in this Honourable House to recognize Public Service Week in Newfoundland and Labrador which runs from June 10 to 16.

This year’s theme, Celebrating our Commitment to Public Service, speaks to the pride and dedication with which our valued public service employees serve the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Each and every day, our employees develop policy and deliver programs and services that positively impact families, individuals and businesses throughout our province. Through their skills, leadership, professionalism and quality of work, they are helping to move our province forward and make it a better place in which to live and work.

They share a passionate and unwavering commitment to serving the citizens of Newfoundland and Labrador and it shows in all they do.

While we benefit from and appreciate their efforts throughout the year, Public Service Week provides a special opportunity for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to recognize the many accomplishments and contributions of public service professionals. It is also a time for those professionals to reflect and to acknowledge their own great work.

Mr. Speaker, I had the pleasure of participating in the Public Service Award of Excellence ceremony yesterday afternoon. I congratulate the one team and six individuals who received awards. I also wish to congratulate all those who were nominated. The quality, diversity and value of the work of our employees is truly outstanding, and to be recognized and nominated for this award by fellow employees is a great accomplishment in itself – they should all be proud.

As part of Public Service Week, a number of departmental and government-wide events will be taking place in locations all around the province. I encourage all public service employees to take part in these events and to reflect on the fact that their work truly makes a difference.

I know I speak for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians when I say thank you to our employees for their efforts throughout the year and I ask all members to join me in recognizing Public Service Week and the many valuable contributions of our Provincial Government employees.

2012 06 12                  1:45 p.m.