|
|
|
|
Last Updated: Mar 17, 2017 - 1:10:01 PM |
(BIS Photo/Lisa Davis)
|
FREEPORT, The Bahamas - Twenty-two graduates of the Bahamas Customs Department were told they are the future, and stand on the shoulders of many who worked hard to make it what it is today.
Comptroller of Customs, Charles Turner, congratulated them during their Graduation and Awards Ceremony held on Wednesday, March 15 at the Bahamas Union of Teacher's Hall in Pioneer's Loop.
The keynote address was given by Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Rt. Hon. Perry G. Christie. Other Ministers present were: Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Obie Wilchcombe; Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville; and Minister of State for Finance, the Hon. Michael Halkitis.
Mr. Turner said, Customs officers of the past who built the organization, did so on pillars of selflessness, integrity, accountability, honesty, respect and professionalism, acting solely for the public interest and not to gain financial or other benefits for themselves, their families or their friends. Professional at all times, whether in uniform or not.
The graduation exercise was as a result of three months of intensive training. The recruits will receive continuous training locally, and internationally, as well as be encouraged to participate in online courses for further growth and development.
The 22 members of the Class of 2017 were selected from a pool of 2,000 applicants and were congratulated for being among the chosen few. They were advised that some of them would be posted at airports and docks where they will encounter family and friends during the course of performing their duties.
"Let me say once again, as I am sure you were told in your training, you have no authority to release goods to anyone without them paying the Customs duties and taxes that are due. If you are caught in any act of dishonesty, in contravention to the Customs Management Act and Regulations, recommendation will be made for your dismissal from the public service,” said Mr. Turner.
The collection and proper accounting of the revenue, he said, is essential to the function of the country, and graduates were encouraged to be honest, accountable, respectful and professional.
Also present for the ceremony were: Simon Wilson, Financial Secretary; Melvin Seymour, Permanent Secretary, Ministry for Grand Bahama; Senator Julian Russell; and Senator Tanisha Tynes. (BIS Photo/Lisa Davis)
© Copyright 2017 by thebahamasweekly.com
Top of Page
|
|
|
|
