Herman Champier (right) beams with pride after receiving an award at the Central Sorting Office in Kingston yesterday for 33 years of service as a postman with the Postal Corporation of Jamaica. Sharing in the moment are Dennis Hickey (left), vice-president of MoneyMasters, and Postal Corporation Chairman Brian Goldson. - Rudolph Brown/Chief Photographer

Brian Goldson, chairman of the Postal Corporation of Jamaica, says despite the introduction of the BlackBerry and email, the postman remains a relevant and essential link in the communications chain.

Speaking yesterday during the Postman's Award presentation, in recognition of World Post Week at the Central Sorting Office on South Camp Road in Kingston, Goldson said the postman and the Jamaica Postal service can never be replaced.

"It's all about people and relationships," he said. "No matter what changes are on the horizon, and there are many, at the end of the day there's going to be no replacement for that relationship that is often formed between the postman and his clients."

Counsellor

In agreeing with Goldson, Postmaster General Michael Gentles said in many communities a postman is often more than just the man or woman who delivers the mail.

"He or she also serves as a counsellor, a communitywide friend, even a message bearer," he said.

Herman Champier, who has worked as a postman with Jamaica Post for the last 33 years, was also yesterday recognised for his long and outstanding contributions.

"It's been good, but there were many challenges," Champier told The Gleaner. He said his success over the years has been a result of honesty, hard work and dedication.

"That's also my advice to young people, whether in the postal service or otherwise, maintain your integrity in your daily work," urged Champier.

He said one of the best things about his job was the long lasting friendships he has formed with the people he serves.

"Even a lot of the elder folk, when I deliver their mail, I don't allow them to come to me, I go to them," he said.