The government is moving to relax strict dress code rules in public offices after reports that individuals have been turned away while attempting to access services.

Director General for Communications Maurice Merchant said Cabinet has acknowledged concerns that current policies are too rigid and may be preventing people from conducting official business.

“I have heard of instances whereby persons have been turned back… because there are these strict guidelines,” Merchant said, noting that some individuals had traveled to government offices only to be denied entry due to their attire.

He said the government now wants a more practical and humane approach.

“Dress must not prohibit individuals from doing business with government,” Merchant said, adding that policies should be guided by “common sense guidelines rather than rigid enforcement.”

The issue has reportedly affected people seeking services such as voter registration, with some being denied access based on what officials deemed inappropriate clothing.

Merchant said Cabinet’s position is that while standards of decency should be maintained, access to services must take priority.

“Policies must be practical… and in particular, for vulnerable groups,” he said, noting that some individuals may not have alternative clothing options.

He added that flexibility should be applied in cases where attire is considered borderline.

“If you think that the person is not dressed appropriately… the individuals whom you come to do business with may be able to come to you within the foyer,” he said.

The Cabinet has not yet outlined formal new rules, leaving it to agencies and management to apply discretion, but officials say the intent is clear — to ensure that no one is denied access to government services because of how they are dressed.

The proposed shift comes as authorities seek to balance public standards with fairness and accessibility in government operations.