An electrical engineer who protected the Government’s water system has been presented with the Public Service Excellence Award for his work.

Jamai Gomes, from the Department of Works and Engineering, was honoured on Friday after he led a team to look after the infrastructure as Hurricane Ernesto battered the island.

Mr Gomes took control days before the storm hit last month — all while his supervisor was absent.

He conducted careful pre-storm shutdowns with a focus on detail and made sure to review fuel generators to guarantee uninterrupted emergency power to government water plants and telecommunication towers.

Once Ernesto passed, Mr Gomes visited the water plant to assess damage and offer reports that helped to restore infrastructure and services in record time.

He collaborated with various sections in the Ministry of Public Works and others throughout the storm so that emergency responses ran efficiently and on time.

The Premier, David Burt, said: “Mr Gomes's actions during Hurricane Ernesto are a further example of the dedicated officers that Bermuda has in its Public Service.

“His devotion and attention to detail ensured that critical services were able to be delivered uninterrupted despite the severity of the storm and the length of time our island was impacted.

“I thank him for his commitment to the safety and protection of our citizens, our services and our infrastructure.”

Cherie Whitter, the Head of the Public Service, echoed Mr Burt’s sentiments.

She said: “Mr Gomes’s actions are a fine example of service excellence.

“He is clearly a problem-solver who has the ability to make good decisions.

“His work exemplifies the spirit of public service. On behalf of the Public Service Executive, congratulations to you, Mr Gomes, and thank you for your commitment to service excellence.”