REMEMBERING DON GALO 

On February 22, 2006, the Permanent Council recognized the centennial of the birth of Galo Plaza Lasso, who served as Secretary General of the Organization of American States and from 1968 to 1975.  

During the meeting, various delegations recalled the numerous contributions made by Galo Plaza for the betterment of the people of Ecuador (he was President of Ecuador from 1948 to 1952); his contributions to the United Nations, including his service as UN mediator in Lebanon (1958), the Congo (1960), and Cyprus (1964-65); and his participation in many of the landmark events of the OAS.  

As Secretary General, don Galo, as he was affectionately known by the staff of the OAS General Secretariat, was instrumental in institutionalizing the remuneration system for staff and implementing parity with the United Nations.  Additionally, he actively sought the creation of the Administrative Tribunal, the court of last resort for staff who believe that their rights have been infringed upon. 

It is fitting that we, as staff, also pause and pay tribute to our former Secretary General.