LETTER: Permanent Secretaries Shifted | Now All Eyes on Directors

Published
Rosa Greenaway

Dear Editor

Amid growing public scrutiny of the public service, calls are intensifying for increased accountability not just among Permanent Secretaries, but also within the ranks of government directors. Concerns have been raised about the effectiveness, transparency, and leadership at the director level across various government ministries and departments.

While recent shifts in Permanent Secretary appointments have made headlines, some stakeholders argue that such changes only scratch the surface. They contend that a deeper, more systemic overhaul is needed, one that includes a critical review of directors who hold significant influence over the daily operations and implementation of government policies.

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“There’s a glaring need to look beyond the top layer,” a source close to the matter stated. “Directors are just as pivotal in shaping how departments function. If we’re serious about public sector reform, we can’t ignore that.”

Critics argue that without this level of introspection and action, issues such as bureaucratic bottlenecks, inefficiency, and lack of innovation will persist. They are calling for performance audits, leadership evaluations, and a merit-based approach to promotions and reappointments.

As public demand grows for a more agile and responsive government, many are watching closely to see whether the necessary attention will be paid not just to the figureheads but to the leadership framework within. The conversation has clearly shifted, and so, they say, must the system.

Proud Antiguan

This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/05/23/letter-permanent-secretaries-shifted-now-all-eyes-on-directors. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Comments (4)

  • Ruby May 23, 2025, 7:01 PM

    There are a bunch of rotten eggs…charlatans within this government who sometimes belive they cannot be replaced. Well gaston is showing them that they can be replaced. Someone of them have been there for so long…looking down on these little workers who just got employed. Growing old is natural some women and men need to understand that we are not in the type writter age. Move along
    Reply
    • Insignature May 23, 2025, 8:03 PM

      There need to be a shake up indeed. Sometimes people stay in positions so long they begin to treat it like their own rumshop.
      Reply
  • Stone May 24, 2025, 8:34 AM

    I hope this is not another nine day wonder
    Reply
  • Unruly One May 24, 2025, 12:14 PM

    Well they dressed the wound without removing the bullet. Lets see if it festers!
    Reply

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