Due to the devastating effects of Hurricanes Irma and Maria throughout the British Overseas Territories (BOTs), namely the British Virgin Islands, the Turks and Caicos Islands and Anguilla, and in order to accommodate persons relocating to the Cayman Islands, the Department of Agriculture (DoA) established a temporary quarantine facility for their pets that did not meet  existing import conditions.  With the operationalization of the temporary quarantine facility it was necessary for the DoA to recruit two additional temporary staff to assist with the care of these pets.

The Department of Agriculture (DoA) in collaboration with the National Workforce Development Agency (NWDA) recognized the opportunity through the NWDA National Internship Programme for individuals  to work and gain hands-on experience as a Kennel Attendant with the DoA.  Caymanians who had a keen interest to work with pets (dogs and cats) as well as the aptitude to learn and understand basic veterinary terminology and procedures were given consideration for the post.

“The Department of Agriculture is indeed very pleased to be able to partner with the NDWA and to be able to use this opportunity to enable a young Caymanian to gain invaluable experience in the work place in general and specifically in the area of animal welfare and the care and maintenance of pet animals” said Mr. Adrian Estwick Director of Agriculture.

The successful candidate for this internship opportunity was 19-yearold Kameron D’ Hue, who began Monday, 9 October 2017  and will be receiving hands-on training and development  whilst actively contributing to the care of pet animals housed with the department.

Mr. DeHue shared, “I am excited to be given this wonderful opportunity to work with and learn from the amazing staff at the Department of Agriculture as an intern. It’s really great to know that I’m working alongside those responsible for keeping this historical industry alive and I would encourage the younger generation to explore various roles available in agriculture. I would like to give an enormous thanks to the NWDA and the DOA for this surreal experience and to my family for their support.”

According to Ms. Dianne Conolly, NWDA Training and Development Manager, “These internship opportunities provide interns with meaningful experiences that can enhance their employability skills and provide insight into an industry or career which would not otherwise be considered. This internship role will offer Kameron a unique opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and experience, provide the foundation needed to progress in his chosen career pathway and help bolster interest in animal care and welfare. ”

The National Internship Programme is a National Workforce Development Agency initiative offered through the Training and Development Unit. The programme provides opportunities to gain valuable applied experience and make connections in professional fields to those considering their career paths, and provide employers the opportunity to guide and evaluate talent.

For more information on the National Internship Programme contact the NWDA’s Training and Development Unit by email at [email protected] or call 345-244-4051.

IMAGE: Photo 1: (left to right) Mrs Vanessa Rivers, DoA’s Operational HR and Information Manager;  Ms. Dianne Conolly, NWDA’s Training & Development Manager; Mr. Erik Bodden, DoA’s Animal Welfare Officer (internship supervisor); Mr. Kameron D’Hue, Intern and Mr. Paul Puckerin, NWDA TVET Coordinator.