The Ministry of Public Administration has taken a significant step towards modernizing the public service by engaging PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Advisory Services Ltd to develop a remote-work policy for civil servants. This move aims to not only increase efficiency but also maintain productivity within the public sector.
According to a press release from the ministry, the policy development is set to be completed by December 2024. PwC has already begun discussions with various stakeholders, including the Service Commissions Department, permanent secretaries, and heads of ministries and departments, even extending to officials in Tobago.
The consultation process conducted by PwC has also involved collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, the National Productivity Council, the Environmental Management Agency, and the Ministry of Digital Transformation. Moving forward, PwC will continue to work closely with key stakeholders like the Ministry of Labour, the Ministry of Planning and Development, and the Public Services Association as the project progresses.
Minister of Public Administration Allyson West emphasized the significance of this initiative by highlighting the need for a comprehensive policy that considers the diverse professions within the civil service. West stressed the importance of the remote-work policy in improving efficiency without compromising productivity or the quality of service provided to the public. This policy is seen as a critical step towards receiving Cabinet approval and aligns with the ministry’s broader focus on modernizing the public service through various related projects, such as the development of an advanced e-human capital and performance management system.
