Seventy six (76) general workers from the Department received their Christmas gifts earlier than expected as the MEC held a Christmas gift handover ceremony in their honour yesterday. The handover took place at the Head Quarters of the Department in Zwelitsha.

According to the MEC the Christmas gifts are his and the top managements token of appreciation to the general workers for their contribution the department. “We appreciate your hard work and commitment to the department because we see you as the backbone of our organization and we are grateful for your efforts” said Gade. He also added that the initiative is only the beginning of great things the Department wants to do to show support and appreciation to the workers.

“I am so touched by this kind gesture from the MEC and his top management because it is a wonderful reminder that our work is valued and appreciated” said Noncedo Damane who is a cleaner in the Department. She went on to say that the food parcels will make a huge difference in their families as food is quite expensive especially this time of the year.

According to Simphiwe Rapy who is also a general worker, being appreciated and celebrated is ‘overwhelming’ because other people see their jobs as not as important. “I am extremely shocked and happy at the same time because this means that I will not spend money on groceries for Christmas I will use that money for school essentials for the kids. I hope this is going to happen every year as this is the best Christmas gift ever” said a visibly happy Rapy.