Zelma Moss with more 40 years of service received the Bahamas Immigration Department Lifetime Achievement Award during recognition ceremonies at Government House.

The Minister’s Award went to Donnalee King-Burrows for more 30 years, and the Director’s Award went to C Loyd Pinder who has put in more than 40 years of service.

The ceremonies, October 1, were was part of the Bahamas Immigration Department’s 70th anniversary celebrations.

Governor-General, His Excellency Arthur D Hanna, underscored the importance of honouring employees who are dedicated to their profession.

“Recipients, you must feel elated that your hard work had not gone unnoticed,” he said. “The fact that you are being awarded is testimony to your continuous good service in assisting the Department to meet its goals and objectives.”

The Governor-General advised them to be ready to deal with migrating practices which will be continuous as people seek a better way of life.

“Furthermore, there is also the cultural aspect which the movement of people will generate which brings into sharp perspective the importance of the role your Department plays in this country,” he said. “True diligence in this time of constant change is key.”

He also commended the Department on doing “a very good job” of regularly informing the public of the work being done, as it seeks to carry out its mandate.

“Your leaders and staff have an onerous assignment as you are given the responsibility of overseeing and controlling the movement of non-residents, persons who are not citizens or have permanent resident status in this archipelagic nation,” he said. “Your job of oversight and control is not an easy task.”

The Bahamas Immigration Department was established by an Act of Parliament on January 1, 1939.

Source: Bahamas Weekly