We must have accountability in the public service

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has underscored the critical need for enhanced accountability within the public service, emphasising that recent legislative measures are pivotal in driving this transformation.

Addressing concerns about governmental efficiency and bureaucracy, Premier Wheatley highlighted the enactment of the Public Service Management Act as a significant step towards modernising the public sector.

This legislation, which received assent from Governor Daniel Pruce on November 18, replaces the outdated General Orders from the early 1970s, aiming to streamline operations and bolster accountability among public officials.

Premier Wheatley acknowledged the dedication of many public servants.

“I see firsthand how hard many of us work,” he said. However, he also recognised the necessity for systemic improvements, noting that the public service operates under the Governor, an unelected position, which he once described as a “democratic deficit” that hinders effective service delivery.

The Premier pointed out that the public is adept at holding leaders accountable through social media and local media outlets. He stressed the importance of ensuring accountability at all levels, from top to bottom, to meet the public’s demand for efficient and effective service.

The government implemented substantial pay raises to support public officers in fulfilling their duties and is now focusing on providing the necessary tools and resources. Premier Wheatley stressed the importance of equipping public servants to deliver services that benefit the community.
“We have to make sure we have the tools available to hold them accountable, to be able to produce in a way where the public benefits,” he said.

Adopt innovative approaches

In light of budgetary constraints earlier this year, the Premier urged departments and ministries to adopt innovative approaches, such as leveraging technology to enhance efficiency. He suggested that artificial intelligence and other technological resources could assist in improving processes and strategies, enabling the public service to become a “lean, mean public servant machine.”

The Premier’s comments come in the wake of efforts to implement recommendations from the 2021 Commission of Inquiry, which identified areas needing reform, particularly in governance and accountability.

The Public Service Management Act outlines clear roles and responsibilities for ministers and senior public officers, including provisions for delegating functions and managing ministerial staff. It also established the Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute, which is dedicated to training and developing public officers to ensure they possess the necessary skills to perform their duties effectively.