The Tribune

By NEIL HARTNELL

Tribune Business Editor

nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

A CABINET minster praised the Customs Department’s “hard work and dedication” in increasing government revenues and protecting Bahamian borders during a promotion ceremony for 62 officers.

Senator Michael Halkitis, minister of economic affairs, presented the promotional letters during the Grand Bahama event “on behalf of the Government, and on behalf of the Ministry of Finance and the Prime Minister”.

He added: “When we think about Customs, most of the time we think about revenue and the importance of revenue. Mr (Ralph) Munroe spoke to the increase in revenue, and we are grateful for your hard work and dedication you have displayed to enable us to achieve that.

“But Customs has a very important function when it comes to protecting our borders from smuggling and illegal activity; guns, drugs etc. That role is equally important because, as you know, we have our issues with criminal activity. You serve a dual role, so as we are collecting revenue, we are also mindful of the security aspect of the job that you do.”

Mr Halkitis had participated in a similar Customs promotions event in Nassau last Thursday “as an expression of thanks and gratitude to those who were receiving the promotions”. Accompanying the minister were Ralph Munroe, Customs acting deputy controller; Whitney Kenny, assistant controller; and Kenneth Flowers, acting deputy controller in charge of Grand Bahama and Walker’s Cay.

“The fact that you are moving to another level demonstrates you have demonstrated competency, discipline in the work you have done, that has enabled you to advance. And the fact that you are advancing means now that even more is expected of you,” the minister said.