Not Only Is It “Unfair”, It Is “Egregious”, BNATUC Pres. Says

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Bahamas National Alliance Trade Union Congress (BNATUC) President Belinda Wilson is speaking out over the government’s decision to bring back hundreds of retired public servants.

Labour and Public Services Minister Pia Glover-Rolle announced during Wednesday’s parliamentary question-and-answer session that 491 retired officers, representing 1.9% of the public workforce, have been rehired as consultants to help reform the public service, citing poor succession planning.

But the revelation has sparked a firestorm.

While grateful that specialty teachers have returned to classrooms, Wilson says she’s disappointed with the contract terms for these senior officials.

For example, a two-year contract obtained by the union chief and sent to Our News shows an offer with a fixed salary of over $100,000 per year. But that’s not all.

“A fixed salary of $104,750 per year, a responsibility allowance of $20,000 a year, a housing allowance of $12,000 a year, payment of all unused accumulated vacation leave, a vehicle, a cellphone, and a 15% gratuity,” says Belinda Wilson – President, BNATUC.

But Glover-Rolle said it had to be done.

Meanwhile, the public backlash continues, with many residents on social media questioning the need to bring back so many seasoned professionals when younger talent might be the answer.

Wilson, joining those critics, has called on Prime Minister Philip Davis to act.

“Put a freeze on rehiring senior public servants for the next six months. Review the public officers and their qualifications and skills to identify suitable candidates. Promote deserving public servants to senior positions, for which many of them have been waiting for the opportunity for years and years,” says Wilson.

“Persons who are reengaged by the government are only rehired on the basis that their services are absolutely critical,” says Latrae Rahming – Communications Director, Office of the Prime Minister.