THE majority of us are able to enjoy a relaxed, well deserved festive season with family and friends because of the few who continue to work over these ‘days of rest’.
We pay tribute to those who have not been able to leave their stations, particularly those in the realm of public safety.
Fire, ambulance, police and traffic crews are evident throughout the holiday period, coping with not only the increased volumes of visitors, but the above average incidents of trauma associated with busier roads and greater intake of alcohol.
And for many, it also entails having to attend gruesome and emotional scenes such as accidents and drownings.
The same applies to others, such as the medical and nursing professions, shift workers, municipal duty officials, store cashiers, garage staff, security companies and a host of other groupings who give us the freedom to enjoy the public holidays.
It also includes caregivers at orphanages, old age homes and places for the disabled and abused, for whom the toil never ceases.
Many of them will not be receiving overtime payment as it is ‘part of the job’.
Special thanks must go the lifeguards, SPCA and NSRI personnel for absorbing the festive season pressures.
The worst in people brings out the best in people, and their commitment to safety and protection is highly commended, especially when they serve as volunteers.
Whether it be night shifts or call-outs, their presence at work means their absence at home.
Not only are these people sacrificing their personal time and energy, their own families are also paying the price.
On behalf of the community, we thank you for your service and sacrifice.
