The Gaston Browne administration is preparing to take decisive action against the abuse of sick leave and absenteeism within the public sector, as part of a broader push to reform and professionalise government operations.

During the weekly post-Cabinet media briefing on Thursday, Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant confirmed that the issue of chronic absenteeism was a central focus of this week’s Cabinet meeting, which also included senior public servants and union representatives.

Merchant revealed that reports of individuals being absent from work for nearly 100 days in a single year had alarmed the Prime Minister and members of Cabinet. The Prime Minister questioned why such conduct had not been addressed and challenged permanent secretaries to exercise the authority provided to them under the public service regulations.

“The Prime Minister indicated to permanent secretaries that they must act on these cases. The perception that individuals are protected politically should not deter disciplinary action,” Merchant said. “Heads of departments are required to deal with staff who are ineffective and not taking their responsibilities seriously.”

The Cabinet also discussed the broader goal of instilling private-sector principles such as performance-based accountability into the public service. According to Merchant, the aim is to eliminate the culture where “anything goes” and create a unified public sector with clearly defined expectations.

A forthcoming “outcome document on performance improvement” is expected to guide the reform process. While details are still being finalised, the Cabinet expects immediate progress, with permanent secretaries scheduled to return next week to submit both their challenges and proposed solutions.

Merchant further noted that the University of the West Indies, in partnership with Harvard University, will be developing mandatory public management training modules for senior officials. Completion of these programmes may eventually be linked to promotion within the service.

The announcement follows recent public complaints about inefficiency and inconsistent service delivery across several government departments. The government now appears keen to signal a zero-tolerance approach to underperformance.

“Not taking responsibilities seriously only affects one group — the general public,” Merchant said. “And they deserve better.”