An electrical engineering technician known for going “above and beyond in his duties”, including during Hurricane Ernesto, was named as the Government’s Employee of the Year.

Jamai Gomes, of the Department of Works and Engineering, was recognised at the third annual Public Service Excellence Awards year-end event.

David Burt attended along with Cherie Whitter, the Head of the Public Service, as well as public officers from across the service.

Ms Whitter said of Ms Gomes: “We look forward to supporting his continued growth and development in the public service.

“I want to extend my appreciation to all of those who were nominated throughout 2024 for the Public Service Excellence Awards.

“I extend my congratulations to all nominees and look forward to continued excellence in 2025.”

Mr Gomes, who was a PSEA recipient in August, added: “This recognition is a great honour. I thank God for this opportunity. My colleagues and I strive to serve the community to the best of our abilities, and I am deeply grateful for this acknowledgement.”

The Premier added: “We came together to celebrate the excellence, dedication and resilience of Bermuda’s public officers.

“The PSEA end-of-year event is about more than recognising individual achievements — it is about honouring the collective efforts of all who work on behalf of our island and the people of Bermuda every day.

“Mr Gomes’s efforts were celebrated because of his actions during Hurricane Ernesto.

“It was a further example of the dedicated officers that Bermuda has in its public service.

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

Ms Whitter described public officers as “the backbone of our communities”, working tirelessly to ensure our safety, health and wellbeing.

“By recognising and honouring their contributions, we not only show our gratitude but also inspire a sense of pride and motivation among these officers.”