Lead Editor–Politics
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has urged public officers to serve every community fairly, saying integrity and respectful treatment are essential to strengthening public confidence.
Speaking at the Office of the Prime Minister’s Divali celebration at the Diplomatic Centre, St Ann’s, yesterday, Persad-Bissessar said the religious festival’s message should be reflected in the daily work of those serving the country.
“We serve every community and we have a special responsibility to set an example of the respect and unity we cherish in Trinidad and Tobago,” she said.
The Prime Minister told staff that everyone approaching the office for assistance should feel welcome, stressing that this depended on their patience, professionalism and willingness to see matters through.
“Integrity strengthens public confidence when people see, when people see that they are treated fairly,” she said.
Persad-Bissessar linked Divali’s themes of light overcoming darkness, knowledge overcoming ignorance and good overcoming evil to the responsibilities of public service.
“Knowledge becomes useful when it helps someone find an answer. Compassion becomes meaningful when it helps someone,” she said.
Addressing an audience that included Cabinet ministers, parliamentary presiding officers, permanent secretaries and protective services leaders, she acknowledged the work required to translate government decisions into delivery.
She thanked Permanent Secretary to the Prime Minister and Head of the Public Service Natasha Barrow, alongside other senior officials, for guiding teams, providing advice and managing public resources.
Persad-Bissessar also recognised staff whose responsibilities range from preparing briefs and maintaining records to receiving visitors, transporting teams and maintaining systems.
“I know the demands can be considerable. Urgent matters arise, deadlines change and your families sometimes share the sacrifice. So please know we appreciate your efforts,” she said.
While thanking public officers for their contributions, the PM acknowledged that further improvements were needed.
“There is so much more to do and I’m grateful to have you working alongside us,” she said, calling for a more responsive office and more effective service.
Her address also emphasised religious harmony, with Persad-Bissessar reiterating her view that “all religious paths lead to the same God.”
She said people prayed in different languages and ways but honoured God through their kindness towards one another.
The PM praised Hindu foreparents for preserving Divali through hardship and sacrifice, allowing it to become a cherished national celebration.
She also paid tribute to the protective services, linking their work to the festival’s message, and wished families peace, health, happiness and prosperity for Divali.
