PM Says Long-Term Acting Appointments Must End, New Permanent Secretaries Will Bring Stability

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC is advocating for an end to prolonged acting appointments in the public service, saying the recent appointment of Permanent Secretaries brings much-needed stability and certainty at the senior level of the public service.

Speaking at a luncheon honouring 24 recently appointed Permanent Secretaries, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar acknowledged that acting appointments may sometimes be necessary but should not become permanent.

“While acting arrangements are sometimes necessary, too many officers have remained in such positions for extended periods, and I remember from the platform I used to say we could get some Oscar nominations and Oscar awards for people who have been just acting, acting. That’s why I appreciate your work, PS, the PSC Service Commission done. So all 24 of you were probably acting acting. I don’t know for how long. PS Barrow. Service Commission. So today we are very proud to lift you out of being Oscar nominees.”