Reformation within the public service is crucial as the country celebrates its annual Public Service Week.
Reiterating the theme of the last two years-Repositioning and Rebranding the Public Service to Improve Service Delivery-Minister for the Public Service and Gender Affairs, Dr. Virginia Albert-Poyotte, emphasised that the reform mechanisms will center on four critical pillars.
Addressing the media on International Public Service Day, observed on June 23, the minister stated that this reformation will implement the Public Service Act, which will hold public servants accountable under new legislation and establish a Code of Conduct.
“We have launched several initiatives aimed at rebranding the public service, enabling us to deliver more efficient and effective service to the public,” she asserted during a media briefing this week.
Dr. Albert-Poyotte firmly stated that public servants are accountable to taxpayers who fund their salaries. “We must find ways to improve the quality of service we provide to the public,” she insisted.
The minister recognised the commitment of dedicated public officers delivering essential services and challenged those who haven’t met expectations to elevate their performance, noting, “The public depends on you.”
As part of the week’s observance, the minister delivered a public address on Monday, outlining some of the department’s strategic initiatives.
Dr. Poyotte highlighted that a critical review of the public service must focus on updating the legislation that governs it, including the Staff Orders, which have remained unchanged for 40 years.
“Much of the legislation is outdated; it’s time to revisit it,” she stated decisively. The reformation process has been completed and is currently under review by the attorney general and the Public Service Commission.
Dr. Poyotte expressed, “This new legislation will introduce a Code of Ethics for public officers, ensuring they are held accountable and disciplined if they fail to perform their duties.”
Another key element of the reformation involves relocating the Public Service department to more suitable working conditions.
“We will create a new environment where all departmental units operate under one umbrella,” the minister announced.
She revealed that the Orange Grove Plaza at Bois D’Orange has been identified as the new location for the Public Service Department, where plans for redesigning, remodeling, and retrofitting are underway to “build a new culture for the public service.”
Dr. Poyotte stated that there will also be a “reclassification of the public service, which will define the skills, abilities, and qualifications necessary for various positions.”
Recalling that the last reclassification exercise was in 1992, she emphasized the need for updated employment criteria to align with modern technology.
“It’s essential to revisit reclassification so that individuals understand the requirements for their positions and ensure the compensation aligns with those skills,” she asserted.
Additionally, Dr. Poyotte announced that the department has developed a Strategic Plan, Operations Manual, and Implementation Plan for the public service.
“These documents will guide us in focusing on critical areas and measuring our goals and objectives effectively.”
The week kicked off with a Public Service Church Service in Babonneau on Sunday, where Member of Parliament (MP) for Babonneau, Dr. Albert-Poyotte joined ministerial colleagues, public service members, and constituents in worship.
In an online post, Dr. Poyotte underscored the significance of public servants, stating, “You are the heart of our nation. Your dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment keep our country running every day.”
She concluded, “Thank you for your service, for your purpose, and for contributing to a stronger Saint Lucia.”