The Ministry of Health on April 13, 2012 recognised Margaret Bertha George of Penville, with an award of excellence for over 22 years as a cleaner at the Penville Health Centre.
She received a plaque and certificate of achievement for her outstanding, committed and exemplary service to the Penville Health Centre, presented to her by the Minister for Health, Julius Timothy and the District Medical Officer, Dr. Candia Jacob respectively.
The citation read by acting Permanent Secretary of Health, Helen Royer, stated in part, “Ms. George was the first Cleaner at the Penville Health Centre from its inception. Her service delivery was remarkable. She single-handedly managed not only the cleaning of the Centre but did yard maintenance on her own for no added fee. When it was too much to handle, she actually paid persons from her own pocket to do the job. Miss George would also ensure that when she was sick one of her children would work for her instead. Her cleaning was immaculate; nothing was short changed. She had no time schedule; she worked until tasks were done to her satisfaction.
She actually hosed and scrubbed the external building once a month. She created an ambiance of cleanliness that was noticed by all who visited the centre.”
Her then supervisor, Helen Royer who was the District Nurse had this to say about Margaret George. “I found her to be an extraordinary worker who was exemplary not only at her tasks but by the respect she demonstrated for authority. She went beyond working hours to ensure the needs of the clinic and staff was met at all times.”
Royer further noted that Ms. George was so engrossed with work that she stayed many years without requesting vacation leave. When she was asked to take her leave she did so reluctantly, since she wanted to ensure a professional job at all times.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit who is also the Parliamentary Representative for Penville said Ms. George’s achievements should serve as a motivation for all in the community. He emphasized that if people work hard they will achieve great things, not only for themselves but for the entire country.
An elated Margaret said she felt proud and honoured to have received the award. “I am feeling good, proud, excited. I worked hard. I did not expect it, but I thank God. “
The 77 year old, said when she began working at the Health Centre in 1973, her wage was $6.00 per month.