Last week, Premier David Burt and the Head of the Public Service, Dr. Derrick Binns recognized the Department of Environment & Natural Resources (DENR) Marine Development Team (MDT) of Dr. Tammy Warren, Andrew Petit, Sarah Manuel, Joanna Pitt, Philip Worboys, and Jirani Welch as the August recipients of the Public Service Excellence Award (PSEA).
The PSEA is a programme recognizes Public Officers who are demonstrating admirable service delivery. Each month an individual or team is selected for their significant accomplishments in the last 60 days.
The DENR was recognized for their work to progress the Blue Prosperity Plan, a two-fold plan to sustainably develop Bermuda’s ocean industries and economy while preserving marine life in fully protected areas.
Their research has helped to advance the Bermuda Ocean Prosperity Plan (BOPP), a community-driven program in partnership with the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (BIOS) and the Waitt Institute, as well as the Blue Shield Initiative and the Regulatory Sandbox. They have provided tremendous support to these initiatives in addition to their regular duties as Public Officers in their respective roles.
Recently, the team presented Bermuda’s success in developing the island’s Blue Economy Strategy and Marine Spatial Plan at a series of events attended by key marine stakeholders, scientists, and founders of the Waitt Institute. The Marine Development Plan introduces innovative technology that will enhance the DENR’s efficiency and ability to conduct scientific research and enforcement without additional staff.
“Congratulations to this team of talented technical officers. The Marine Development Plan is a hugely progressive scientific initiative that will be leveraged to attract investment and create jobs in Blue industries such as fishing, tourism, and renewable energy,” Premier Burt said.
Dr. Binns, added, “On behalf of the Public Service Executive and myself, congratulations on your success. We look forward to seeing the fruits of your efforts with the implementation of this ground-breaking plan.”