Petrona Smith Appointed Permanent Secretary  for Health

Petrona Smith

The appointment, which took effect on July 7, is for a period of six months in the first instance.

Ms. Smith was previously the Deputy Secretary in the Premier’s Office, a post she held since July 1, 2005.

Ms. Smith joined the public service 20 years ago as a clerical trainee in the then-Chief Minister’s Office, where she worked from 1988 until 1991. She later served as a Social Worker at the Social Development Department, then as Executive Director of the National Drug Advisory Council. In 2001, Ms. Smith joined the Public Sector Development Programme, and was later appointed Coordinator, where she was responsible for coordinating the implementation of PSDP’s strategic initiatives.

Ms. Smith holds a Certificate in Addiction Studies from the University of the West Indies, a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and Criminal Justice from Alabama A&M University, and a Master’s of Science degree (with distinction) in Development Administration from the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom. ~~Adz:Right~~

She succeeds Shelia Brathwaite, who was appointed Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Culture in 2007. During the interim, Deputy Secretary Mrs. Ritzia Turnbull-Smith served as Acting Permanent Secretary.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development works to provide leadership that promotes health, social well-being, and a safe environment as positive resources for living and ensuring sustainable development. Among other things, the Ministry is responsible for safe-guarding and promoting the health and social development of the Territory’s residents.