Mr. James Agyenim-Boateng, a Deputy Minister of Information, on Thursday called on the public to remain sensitive in their speeches and discussions regarding the late President John Evans Atta Mills’ health status.

He said it was important that the late President’s family was accorded the highest respect and support at a difficult time when the nation was mourning the demise of its leader.

He described certain statements, comments and discussions in the media regarding the late President’s health as very unfortunate, insensitive and unhealthy for the nation at a critical time like this.

Mr. Agyenim-Boateng made the call at the Institute of Public Relation (IPR) Ghana's 6th Presidential Luncheon, which also marked part of activities of its 40th anniversary celebration.

The occasion was also used to launch Africa Public Relations Award, dubbed: “APRA Pyramid Award”, to reward professional excellence and outstanding leadership to be held in Lusaka, Zambia from October 10 to 12, 2012. The Luncheon, which was on the “IPR @40: Consolidating the Image of Ghana as a Peaceful and Democratic Nation”.

According to Mr. Agyenim-Boateng, the peaceful transition and democratic system would depend largely on how Ghanaians comported themselves during these trying moments in the history of the country.

He acknowledged the critical role of quality public relations in the nation’s development and urged the Institute to encourage high standards of professionalism among its members not only to enhance the image of their respective organizations, but also to design programs that would promote the image of Ghana internationally.

He assured the Institute of Government’s support in all their activities and programs to ensure quality PR in Ghana.

Major Albert B. Don-Chebe, President, IPS Ghana, said the theme for the anniversary stresses on Ghana’s positive image as a peaceful nation on the continent and that for two decades since the country returned to constitutional rule, there had been considerable progress in the various sectors such as democracy and the rule of law, economic empowerment, technology and social enhancement.

He cautioned, however, that “despite these achievements our country is still fragile enough for us to continue to remain vigilant and watch out for those who revel in disorder, conflict and destruction”.

Major Don-Chebe said the IPR would therefore use the anniversary to put the spotlight on four sub-themes that would help Ghana to consolidate its image as a peaceful and democratic nation.

He said two of the topics, “Creating Professionally Responsible Spokesperson” and “Sustainable Economic Growth and National Development”, had already been discussed through public lectures.

“The Institute is looking forward to hosting two other symposia on the topics: “Public Relations and Effective Governance” and “Public Relations and the Media: Two sides of a Golden Coin”, to further offer opportunities for debate on consolidating Ghana’s image as a peaceful democratic nation.

Mr. Henry Nii Dottey, Deputy Secretary, IPR, on his part, explained that the awards, would presents seven categories, which include the best Public Relations Associations in West Africa and in Southern Africa, best Public Relations practitioner in Africa, and best Public Relations campaign in Africa.

He said apart from awarding its members, the occasion would also be used to honor other individuals and organizations, who had also excelled in their various fields of accomplishments, thereby enhancing the development of their respective companies and countries at large.

The occasion was also used to raise funds to support the construction of a training complex for practitioners.**