Labour Minister emphasises good work ethics

Recognise the importance of practising a good work ethic and adhere to it.

 

This was one of the messages that Minister of Labour, Social Security and Human Resource Development, Senator Dr. Esther Byer-Suckoo, gave to participants at the launch of the ‘Ruk-a-Tuk Inc. Training Workshops in the Artistic Forms of Limbo Dancing, Fire Eating and Flute Playing’ in the Ministry of Labour Amphitheatre yesterday.

 

She stated that though they would not be in the traditional office job of nine to five, five days a week and wearing work clothing, does not give them permission to do as they please. In fact, they still have to maintain the same good work habits such as punctuality.

 

“I encourage you, future performers, to recognise the importance of a good work ethic. The research conducted by Pinelands Creative Workshop revealed that reliability, professionalism, punctuality and a willingness to grow were all best practices of successful cultural practitioners. Do not be fooled into thinking that because you may not have to come dressed in business attire to an office every day at 8 a.m., that you have a licence to do things ‘any old how’.”

 

The Minister also encouraged the participants to find new and creative ways of artistic expression. “As you learn the technical aspects of fire eating, limbo dancing and flute playing, I want to encourage you to continually innovate and find varied and unique ways to present your skills. I challenge you to fight the inclination to get too comfortable with any one routine, and to constantly ‘mix it up’ while staying true to the art form.”

 

In addition, she advised them to learn as much as they can from these workshops and to use what they learn and capitalise on it as they continue to enhance on their skills and knowledge.

 

“To the participants, I know the next few weeks of training will be exciting and instructive. Absorb, absorb, absorb. And enjoy. Truth be told I am quite envious. (In fact, I am very grateful that I have responsibility for HRD and the HRDS because it has allowed me to come into contact with interesting projects and personages that I would not ordinarily interface with as minister of labour or social security alone.) Participants, remember that your trainers can only get you so far. It would be your personal responsibility that will determine your success. Then you will develop a product and service that adds to the Barbados’ brand of high quality; realise the self-actualisation that comes from personal and commercial success. I hope to someday sit in your audience and say, “I knew you when…”