More than 2 000 workers to be appointed to Public Service — PM

Prime Minister Mia Mottley has announced what she described as an early Christmas gift for public officers, revealing that more than 2 000 workers will soon receive letters confirming their permanent appointment to the Public Service.

Leading debate in the House of Assembly on the Public Service (Appointments) Bill 2025 today, Mottley said a total of 2 095 public officers stand to benefit. Of that number, 1 170 temporary employees who meet the eligibility requirements will be confirmed, while 925 officers currently serving in acting positions will be formally promoted to their substantive posts.

The Prime Minister also pledged that her administration would continue discussions on additional compensation and improved conditions of service for key frontline workers, including teachers, police officers, and nurses.

However, while welcoming the move, Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne cautioned that the appointments alone would not resolve what he described as ongoing “turbulence” within the public service.

Thorne condemned the government for what he termed the “planting” of individuals at the helm of several government departments on three-year contracts, arguing that the lack of security of tenure compromised their independence. He contended that such arrangements made senior officials more “slavish to ministerial rule” rather than accountable to the principles of a professional public service.

Debate on the bill continues in Parliament.

Full coverage in the Barbados Today e-paper tonight. (IMC)