It was a very memorable occasion for those of us who attended the Barbados Port Inc.’s 50th anniversary staff awards ceremony last Saturday at Hilton Barbados.
The atmosphere was like a wedding function – only the bride and groom were missing from it. Workers and invited guests were dressed to kill.
The long service awards were given in five categories: 20 to 24 years, 25 to 29, 30 to 34, 35 to 39 and 40 years.
It was great seeing Mr Peter Parker, the first general manager (Port Contractors Limited, 1961 to 1979; Barbados Port Authority, 1979 to 1992) and Mr Frank McConney, first chairman (Barbados Port Authority, 1979 to 1981) as they received their Chairman’s Award.
During the presentation, it dawned on me that the Barbados Port Inc. is a place to work for. There were so many workers receiving so many long service awards!
What is responsible for such? Is it the working environment, or is it the pay?
Whatever the reason, people do not leave there. Just think of those workers who received awards for 40 years plus service.
The Port has a rich history, for new frontiers were created in Barbados with the construction of the Deep Water Harbour, opened on May 6, 1961, by then Prime Minister of the West Indies Federation and former Premier of Barbados Sir Grantley Adams.
Since that time, the facility has expanded into the bustling Bridgetown Port of today.
Prior to construction of the Deep Water Harbour, ships coming to Barbados anchored in Carlisle Bay and had their cargo and passengers transported to the Wharf by lighters – small boats manned by local workers known as lightermen.
The new harbour changed this age-old practice as ships were now able to berth alongside the quays.
Congratulations to the Barbados Port Inc. on its 50th anniversary celebration.
Thanks to the 50th anniversary staff awards committee for such a beautiful evening last Saturday.
