By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

SHERICK Martin, Assistant Comptroller of Bahamas Customs for Grand Bahama and Walker’s Cay, said the department is evolving and officers must be aware of the new initiatives implemented by Customs.

A conference was held for Customs officers to apprise them of the changes in the new Customs Management Act that went into effect last July. This is the second refresher course held in six months for officers in Freeport.

“Today is a continuation of what we have being doing for the past six months to prepare you for what is to come,” Mr Martin said.

“As you are all aware the Customs Department is no longer what we know to it be in years past. (There are) new initiatives and we have embarked on these conferences and symposiums to help prepare you and to make the transition much easier.”

Mr Martin stressed that it is important that officers familiarise themselves with the changes. “My job as the leader is to bring these new initiatives... to you for these changes will not wait for you; you must embrace it.”

Mr Martin said the new Customs Act that came into effect last July is their guide to the new customs regulations. He noted that there are new acronyms they need to know. “You must read it and understand it for we all know that preparation is everything,” he stated.

The Assistant Comptroller told Customs officers that they are future leaders of the department, and indeed the country. He encouraged them to dream big and to act in the best interest of the organisation.

“Let the public see your good work, let your colleagues have good things to say about you. Social promotion is the thing of the past, wear your uniform with pride for it is who you are, and most of all see yourself in a bigger picture as someone who can make a difference... in your country,” he said.