Premier admits: Gov’t has execution problem

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has confirmed that his administration has an execution problem but said his government is working to identify challenges and fix problems.

The Premier gave that indication while speaking in the House of Assembly last Friday.

He stated, “I’m encouraged because I believe we have, as a group, we are identifying the challenges that we have and we are fixing problems. We do have a problem with the execution in government.”

This admission follows earlier remarks by former Deputy Premier Lorna Smith, who highlighted similar concerns. Earlier this year, Smith observed, “This government seems to have an implementation problem that we… have to fix and fix it very quickly in the interest of the people of this territory.”

Dr Wheatley emphasised that the execution issues are not solely the responsibility of elected officials. He noted that unelected individuals within the system also play a role and should be held accountable to ensure the public service functions properly. He remarked, “We all know that this system that we have has many flaws and all of it is not the doing of those who are elected.”

The Premier called for collective responsibility to address these challenges, stating, “We all have a collective responsibility to make sure that we help to solve those challenges and those problems.”

Dr Wheatley expressed gratitude for his team’s support and highlighted the experience of the newly appointed Deputy Premier, Julian Fraser. “I’m grateful for the support of the now Deputy Premier… He knows how to get things done and he will be able to advise me,” the Premier said.

Dr Wheatley assured residents that the government is committed to addressing the issues and improving service delivery and acknowledged the public’s frustrations. “We know that it’s taking too long but we are certainly going to redouble our efforts,” he stated.