Long service and dedication medals were presented to 31 prison officers on Saturday morning during a Medal Award Ceremony held at the National Racquet Center, Georgetown.
According to a statement from the Guyana Prison Service, medals were also presented to 62 ranks who have given fifteen years and more of service to the Guyana Prison Service.
The list of medalists was headed by Principal Officer 11, Shellon Nero for 33 unbroken years of service.
In his address at the medal ceremony, Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn emphasised that responsibility, dedication and hard work are the essential values that should always drive prison officers in their duties.
Prison officers, he underlined, have the crucial role of upholding law and order in the penal system and should therefore carry out their duties in an effective and efficient manner for a safer environment through best correctional practices.
Minister Benn commended their efforts and sacrifices as well as their vast contribution in the progress achieved by the prison service.
Elliot extended gratitude to the ranks for their contributions as criminal justice professionals, while explaining that their efforts have created an “environment for inmates to acquire the skills and attitude to be effectively reintegrated in their communities.”
On congratulating the medalists, he urged them to continue to conduct themselves in a manner that other ranks can emulate as this would create a sustained environment of efficiency and professionalism.
The ceremony was established to recognise the valuable services given by prison officers, particularly those who inspired other members of staff through their efficiency and dedication to the prison service.
