By JOE KANEKANE
The Law and Justice sector program has ended a fitting finale for the year, rewarding 16 of its hard working staff at the 2007 Sector Awards Night.
The annual event is a key highlight of the sector calendar, as staff who have excelled in various areas of the eight different agencies were recognized.
State Minister representing the Prime Minister Philemon Embel who officiated at the occasion, praised the concept, and echoed several suggestions.
"Our staff are the face of and reflection of our organizations. They are the ones that reflect our true selves in the eyes of the public. Their contributions, professionalism and personal affection to their job often determines if we as a sector is delivering to the people the results they deserve, "said Mr Embel.
He added that the law and justice sector was a very big group and its responsibilities spanned right around the country.
And, the awards were important to the staff, some of whom are working under very difficult and harsh conditions.
Mr Embel a former Attorney-General also asked the sector to promote those that were awarded, adding it was deserving, if they were given an additional roles.
Director of the Law and Justice Sector (LJSS) Secretariat Kepas Paon also commended the winners adding that the awards were an opportunity for the sector acknowledges their efforts.
He added that the sector was a big one and there were many winners, but the ones chosen were, those that really stood out, amongst some of the many fine performances.
"In congratulating you, let me also commend those that have worked tirelessly to be with you all. I also want to thank those that have made it possible for you to achieve this," said Mr Paon.
Many of the award recipients were thankful to the sector for acknowledging their efforts. Senior Constable Margaret Babate from the Kokopo Community Police said the award, was fitting and she thanked those that have worked around her.
"This is a great occasion for me and those that have worked with me. I have dedicated this award to the many partners and stakeholders; I have worked with over the years. Without them, I cannot stand here proudly and achieve this. I am truly thankful," said Mrs Babate.
Francis Poka of the Baisu Correctional Institution said his award was also possible with the support of his management. Mr Poka said his commander has been very supportive as far as, allowing him time off to pursue his role as an information officer.
Poka has been instrumental in shaping the news for the Baisu facility, which has been plagued by a lot of bad publicity over the years.
"It is a great honour and one that I will accept proudly as it reflects the sector, especially the CS for their recognition. I do hope I can work closer towards my other goals in life and this has put on that footing," said Mr Poka.
Naomi Philips of the Office of the Public Solicitor also thanked the sector, adding it will boost her morale to carry out her tasks for diligently. She said, as a young officer, she was surprised that she would win the award.
"I am humbled and I know there are many others out there who would have won this. I will do my best to lift my performance. And I want to thank the Public Solicitor for this opportunity," said Ms Philip.
Among some of the key criteria used by the judges were; Candidates should have demonstrated that they have;
* Worked under very difficult circumstances;
* Assisted their agency implement its Corporate Plan
* Set a new bench-mark for that department, in productivity and innovation;
* Participate in a cross-cutting issue;
* Served in the department for a minimum of three years; and
* Have a sound knowledge of the Sector Wide Approach.

The Highest award of Staff of the Year went to, Senior Constable Margaret Babate of Kokopo Community Police and Camillus Sambua of the Port Moresby Public Prosecutor's Office.
Others who were recognized, included: Tracey Ganaii and Camillus Sambua from Office of the Public Prosecutor and Senior Constable Margaret Babate and Sergeant Tinol Pokiapon of RPNGC
Senior Inspector Molly Moihau and warder Francis Poka from the PNGCS
Thomas Bona and Magistrate Mark Pupaka from PNG Magisterial Services (PNGMS)
Ron Silovo and Humphrey John from National Judicial Service
Russell Uware and Naomi Philip from the Office of the Public Solicitor
Bibie Takaboi and Mollean Kilepak from the Department of Justice and Attorney-General.
Sandra Varily from Law and Justice Sector Secretariat and Marai Une- Law and Justice Sector Program
The Agency of the year Award went to, the PNG Correctional Service.




 

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