The United Nations has dedicated this year’s Public Service Day to all the essential workers who risk their lives and health amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, with the BPSU noting that the “pandemic has highlighted the necessity of robust, responsive and effective public service delivery.”
A BPSU spokesperson said, “On December 20, 2002, the United Nations [UN] designated 23 June as UN Public Service Day to acknowledge ‘the value and virtue of public service to the community; highlights the contribution of public service in the development process; recognizes the work of public servants, and encourages young people to pursue careers in the public sector.”
“This year, the UN has dedicated Public Service Day to all the essential workers who risk their lives and health amidst COVID-19 pandemic. It also serves as a recognition for all the Government workers who continue to provide quality public services during the ongoing pandemic.
“The role of Bermuda’s Public Service is to serve the community and provide a variety of services including healthcare, defense and security, law and order, education, physical infrastructure, transportation, telecommunications, revenue collection, etc.
“More than ever, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the necessity of robust, responsive and effective public service delivery and the critical role of frontline public servants within our community.
“Public Officers are professionals dedicated to serving Bermuda; many of whom have taken on additional responsibilities for years without any additional compensation due to on-going budgetary constraints and hiring freezes.
“In addition to the health implications and loss of life, the pandemic has strained health care systems, disrupted the education system and wreaked havoc on businesses and economies. This led to job losses, disrupted social life with lockdowns, curfews and other stringent measures aimed at containing the virus. Despite these challenges, Public Officers continue to serve at a high standard.
“The Bermuda Public Services Union [BPSU] invites Bermuda to join us today in celebrating all Public Servants.”
