CABINET NOTES : Cabinet invited Permanent Secretaries, Union Representatives within the Public Service, the Financial Secretary, the Solicitor General and other senior officials to its meeting to address public sector service inefficiencies, worker accountability, union relations, and efforts to reform and professionalize the public sector in Antigua and Barbuda.
The meeting, which was an introduction towards the production of an outcome document on Performance Improvement was addressed by Prime Minister Gaston Browne with other members expressing their views on the matter.
Prime Minister highlighted the issue of chronic inefficiencies and abuse to include widespread absenteeism and abuse of sick/leave days and senior officials being hesitant to discipline workers due to fear of perceived political backlash or perceived protection of staff.
On the issue of accountability and discipline, the Prime Minister outlined that while Ministers and not civil servants have ultimate control over ministry decisions as per the Constitution, Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Departments must hold staff accountable and take disciplinary action where necessary.
In addressing the union representatives, Prime Minister encouraged dialogue with unions and pointed out that Government is open to discussions and has a track record of addressing union concerns reasonably.
The Prime Minister said that there is the need to develop a culture of optimal performance and responsibility, emphasizing the need for professionalism regardless of political affiliations. Prime Minister acknowledged that there are committed public servants, but systemic issues remain in the service.
In addressing the need for reform and upskilling, the Prime Minister announced the collaboration between the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus and Harvard University in the development of modules for public management training for senior officials, which will be mandatory. He emphasized the need for upskilling, reskilling and staying current with knowledge for better service delivery in the sector, stating that promotions may require completion of this programme.
While appealing to the senior public sector officials and department heads to step up leadership, improve internal communication, and ensure efficient execution of government policies, Prime Minister reiterated the government’s vision of transforming Antigua and Barbuda into and economic powerhouse and outlined the critical need for an alignment of public service delivery with national development goals.
The Permanent Secretaries and other senior officials will be invited to Cabinet next week for a continuation of the engagement. They are expected to address their challenges and provide suggestions for the improvement of the sector.