_St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda_ — Public servants who consistently underperform or abuse sick leave entitlements could soon face disciplinary action, including possible termination, as part of the government’s renewed focus on accountability within the public sector.

The issue was a central point of discussion during this week’s Cabinet meeting, which included a special session with permanent secretaries, heads of department, and union representatives. According to Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant, the Prime Minister expressed deep concern over reports of chronic absenteeism and a lack of disciplinary follow-through.

“There have been instances where individuals have been absent for close to 100 days in a single year,” Merchant revealed during Thursday’s post-Cabinet media briefing. “The Prime Minister made it clear that this cannot continue and that public service must be reformed to reflect the standards of the private sector.”

The Cabinet underscored the importance of fostering a culture of performance and accountability, with Merchant noting that the government aims to eliminate the perception that public sector jobs are immune to consequences.

Heads of department and senior officials were reminded of their legal authority to act against persistent non-performance and were urged to resist political interference or perceived protections.

An outcome document is being developed as part of an ongoing process to modernise the public sector. The initiative also includes collaboration with the University of the West Indies and Harvard University to develop mandatory training modules in public administration, which may become a requirement for promotion.

Officials say the reforms are aimed at ensuring better service delivery to the public and maintaining morale among high-performing civil servants.