MPAC Connect Volume 4 July 2017

VOLUME 4
In this issue:
- National ICT Plan Launched
- Public Service Day 2017
- Focus on our Divisions: National
Archives
- Profiling one of us
- It’s Vacation time
- Travelling with Kids
- HR Corner
- Media Mix and Mingle
- Healthy Recipes and exercise tips

The National Information Communication
and Technology (NICT) Plan which was launched
on Wednesday July 5th is aimed at driving T&T’s
social and economic development and enhancing
the quality of life for all citizens.
The draft NICT Plan was approved by
Cabinet on June 1 st , 2017. It is a five year plan
from 2017 to 2021 and is labelled ‘Fast Forward
11”. According to Minister of Public
Administration and Communications, the
Honourable Maxie Cuffie, “The Plan is driven by
the needs and priorities of the Government,
business and the people of Trinidad and Tobago
– as well as the country’s regional and
international obligations. As such, it declares a
bold vision to see: empowered people,
competitive businesses, and transformational
government, through ICT.”
There are five Strategic Thrusts that
advance the realization of the National ICT
Vision. They are:
- Improving Connectivity - Advancing the
deployment of ICT infrastructure to
support securely connected people,
businesses, and government;
- Increasing Human Capacity - Enhancing
digital literacy and developing the skills to
enable productivity and innovation;
- Enhancing Public Service Delivery -
Ensuring the use of ICT to transform the
delivery of public goods and services and
achieve institutional strength and
capacity;
- Fostering Economic Development -
Creating an environment for eBusiness and
ICT Sector advancement;
- Advancing Environmental and Societal
Benefit - Creating an environment for
eBusiness and ICT Sector advancement.
Minister Cuffie also said that he is “confident though that
embedded within the Plan, are the already germinating seeds
of a diversified and strengthened economy where business
competitiveness is at an all-time high; where sustainable jobs
in the ICT sector which you and I cannot even now envisage will
be evident; and where the public service delivery of goods and
services which impact significantly on the day to day
operations of people and businesses are characterized by
efficiency, speed and quality far superior to what we currently
experience.”
Fast Forward 11 marks the beginning of the stakeholder
consultations of which the first was held on Friday July 7th
with the members of the Government ICT Leadership Advisory
Council (GILAC). This group is made up of ICT Managers
within the Public Service.
Other group consultations are expected to run through to
October 2017.

On 21 st June 2017, Ministries/Departments showcased
major initiatives which highlighted their service
improvements with an emphasis on Information Technology
and Communications (ICT) initiatives. These initiatives
included technology-driven solutions, new or enhanced
services, improved processes and any innovative approach to
enhancing their delivery mechanisms.
The Public Service
Open House
acknowledged the
recent work and
achievements of the
Trinidad and Tobago
Public Service as well
as initiatives that are
on stream for
implementation in
accordance with
Government‘s ICT
agenda.

On our Divisions
In this issue, we turn our attention to the
National Archives of Trinidad and Tobago, located
at 105, St. Vincent Street, Port of Spain.
Many may know or have heard of the Archives
but what is it really? The website describes it as the
treasure-house of our country's heritage, the
custodians of Trinidad and Tobago's memory,
acquiring, preserving and making thousands of
records, of various formats, available to the public.
.
If you are searching for information ranging from as far
back as our colonial history through to the registration of
slaves and the establishment of our laws, you can find it at the
National Archives of Trinidad and Tobago. The Archives also
engages in outreach programmes in a bid to bring citizens
closer to their history and a better understanding of their
heritage.
You are encouraged to visit the Archives to either
conduct research or to leisurely stroll through the rich
history of Trinidad and Tobago.
For their never ending dedication to our history we say
“Cheers” to the National Archives of Trinidad and Tobago.
Sharon’s work history entails, Public Relations Officer,
Communications Coordinator at GISL, Public Relations Manager at
SM Jaleel and currently Senior Corporate Communications Officer.
She is a certified Events Manager and internationally trained in the
area of Protocol, added to this she was recently elected Secretary of
the Public Relations Association of Trinidad and Tobago (PRATT).
That’s a mouthful for one person, but Sharon handles it like
“ah boss”. Not only does she juggle a full time career but in addition
to her daily duties she has also been assigned as this Ministry’s
representative on the Inter-Ministerial Committee for the planning
and execution of Carifesta which will be hosted in Trinidad in 2019.
Sharon is always open for conversation and often drops in a few
words of wisdom along the way, she can only be described as a
mover and a shaker, a Jane of all trades….. A phenomenal woman.
When asked what has been her biggest accomplishment to
date, Sharon stated that personal acceptance is a big one for her. She
noted that not many people can say, with confidence, that they are
comfortable in and with themselves. Sharon also indicated that
what gets her up in the mornings is the chance to make a difference
somewhere, somehow, no matter how small her contribution. She’s
conscious of the fact that someone maybe looking to her and her
actions for inspiration.
Sharon is led by the quote from Charles Dickens, “It is not the
strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent, but
the one that is most responsive to change”. The only constant in life
is change and we must be able to understand and apply it to our
lives.
We take this opportunity to salute Sharon Farrell of the
Corporate Communications Unit.

;
It’s that time of the year again
when parents/guardians look forward
to spending quality time with their
children. What shape will your
vacation take this year? Hopefully it
will be one which takes the children
away from their tablets, play stations,
phones and the television and get them
moving out in the sun and fresh air.
There are numerous “know your
country” tours conducted by the PTSC
and the Water Taxi, which is a fun way
to teach your children about their
country. Hiking is always a great way
for your children to get in touch with
nature as well as get some much needed
exercise through the various reputable
hiking clubs across the country.
These are just some of the fun ideas
that you can explore with your children
during the holidays, so go ahead what
are you waiting for? The fun awaits!
What to look for when selecting the right camp for your child/children:-
History/reputation – does this camp have a history or has it just
started. A referral is always best;
Focus – will the camp be focussed on pure academics or sports or
a holistic approach which will involve a little bit of everything;
Staff/Supervisors – a major concern is whether there is
adequately trained staff in the camp for the number of children.
No one wants their children to be unsupervised around pools etc.;
Accessibility – contact information for the camp as well as staff
members. There must be a solid communication plan between the
camp and parents/guardians; and
Location/ After-care services – decide whether you want a camp
close to home or close to where you work. Also, enquire about
after-care services in case you are delayed in picking up your
children at the end of camp.
Here are some tips for happy travelling with children:-
Travel light – pack only what you will need;
Book early – especially hotel rooms to ensure that they are child
proof;
Snacks – buy them before you get to the airport;
Attire – be prepared for airport security searches so wear
clothing and shoes that are easily removed. Also, be mindful of
the weather where you’re going;
Pack cards or small games for possible delays and layovers in
flights; and
Anticipate the unexpected. Always have contingency plans
when children are involved.
CORNER
Promotions
1. Mr. Kurt Meyer was promoted to Deputy
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of
Education. Congratulations!
2. Ms Maquada Williams Joshua was
promoted Systems Analyst II with effect
from July 22, 2012 and assumed duty at
PMCD with effect from April 25, 2017.
3. Ms Elizabeth Thomas, Clerk I, started
acting as Administrative Officer II at the
PSA from June 08, 2017 to August 30,
2017.
Retirements
1. Deborah Hunte-Lewis, Clerk Typist I
retired from the Public Service on 19
May, 2017 – PMCD
2. Anthony Leu, Audio Visual Aids
Officer has retired from the Public
Service - on 25 June, 2017 – PSA
3. Stephen Seesahai, Clerk IV has
proceeded on pre-retirement leave
for the period June 30, 2017 to
October 26, 2017 and voluntary
retirement from the Public Service
on October 27, 2017 – PMCD

The Ministry held a cocktail reception for media
and staff at the Courtyard, Government Plaza on June
22, 2017. The objective of the event was to develop long
term working collaborations between the media and
Government. Minister, the Honourable Maxie Cuffie
hopes that the event is the beginning of improved
relations between Government and the media.
Raspberry Banana Ice Cream
It’s a healthy alternative to regular ice cream
To make this, blend in a food processor:
1 1/2 frozen bananas
1/2 cup frozen raspberries
1/3 cup Greek yogurt
Blend until smooth and creamy. Eat immediately or
place in the freezer for a harder consistency. This
flavour is creamy and delicious, but also refreshing!
Making the Kids part of
your Exercise Routine
Including your child
in the occasional workout
is a great way to break
from the cycle many
families have of spending
time together in front of
the TV or on their
electronic devices.
This recipe is going to give your kids a lot more
nutrients than just regular ice cream and without all
of the added sugar!
Be creative and create different flavours by using
other frozen fruits, chocolate or peanut butter.
It is an effective way
for him or her to have
positive associations with
exercise.