No major fallout expected with upcoming appointments

Whilst there may be a few anomalies and a few persons who may be disadvantaged as Government seeks to appoint a number of public sector workers who have long been overdue for such a move, no major fallout is expected with this action.

Minister of Home Affairs, Information and Public Affairs, Wilfred Abrahams, noted the above as he made his contribution to the Public Service (Amendment) Bill, 2020 during recent Parliamentary debate.

“As of the 1st of October, if you are entitled to be appointed under the legislation, then you will be so appointed, with nothing further having to be done. It removes all requirements of dependency on an external party. This effectively is the Government saying, enough is enough. This football has been kicked around long enough,” Abrahams declared, whilst stating Government’s intention to clear up the backlog that exists with appointments.

Abrahams acknowledged however, “There are persons who are going to be disadvantaged initially, by what we are trying to do. I have had very direct conversations with persons who are saying, this is unfair to them. You could not have done this to me.”

He nevertheless indicated that Government sympathises with such individuals and there will be a system in place to deal with persons on a case-by-case basis, who may appear to be disadvantaged as the appointments get under way.

He meanwhile noted that under his Ministry, there are a number of workers in the Barbados Fire Service and in the Immigration Department, for example, who are

looking forward to Government’s move, given that officers have suffered from low morale, having not been able to move up the ladder or have security of tenure. There are also numerous persons acting in positions, who are also eagerly anticipating their appointments.

Abrahams stressed, “I do not believe there is going to be any major fallout in the Public Service over this. Actually, Sir, I think there is going to be widespread jubilation and celebration.”

He added, “I just want to give the assurance. There is no mischief in this.” (RSM)