Neita-Headley queries approach to rationalisation of public sector

Natalie Neita-Headley, opposition spokeswoman on the public service, yesterday urged the Government to be sensitive in the implementation of the public-sector rationalisation programme.

In making her contribution to the 2011-2012 Budget Debate, Neita-Headley noted that the cost-cutting initiative of restructuring the public service is to be guided by Finance Minister Audley Shaw.

She, however, raised questions of conflict of interest.

"We wonder if there is not a conflict of interest between the cost-cutting priorities of a minister of finance carrying out the mandate of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the same minister of the public service who should be seeking a sensitive solution to cost saving," she said.

"The real conflict is in his character and his role," she added.

Neita-Headley questioned whether Shaw could serve two masters at the same time, naming the IMF and the public sector of Jamaica.

Neita-Headley also raised questions about the Government's respect for public-sector workers, citing the abuses to some workers by members of the Bruce Golding administration.

She also suggested a lack of leadership by the prime minister for failing to discipline them.

According to Neita-Headley, the Government should meet the test of stakeholder participation and accountability, and should find a middle ground with private sector, the labour market and other partners. She said a government must operate in a space where the Government respects the rights of the public sector.