The Minnis Administration has launched a widespread confirmation exercise across the public service ahead of what is expected to be an early General Election.
Though Minister of Public Service Brensil Rolle accused the former Christie Administration of increasing the public service by 6,500 people during its five years in office and increasing government payroll during its last five months in office, Rolle’s ministry is now confirming everyone from senior government officials to janitorial staff in an effort to win over public workers.
Government insiders tell the Gallery, there will also be a widespread posting of Principals, Vice Principals and Senior Assistants throughout the public education system.
However, it could be too little too late in light of the various workers unions that have protested against the government in recent months.
Last month, dozens of nurses gathered in Rawson Square demanding to speak with Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis about more than $300,000 owed for the time they worked during Hurricane Dorian and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Airport Authority workers also threatened to strike over backpay owed to them and terrible working conditions. During a meeting with union members, Bahamas Public Service Union President Kimsley Ferguson urged them to run politicians from their doorstep when they come knocking seeking votes in the next election.
“Run them from your doors,” he said.
The confirmation exercise comes three years after the Minnis Administration sent home 2,500 public servants within its first year in office.
In December 2018, the Department of Statistics revealed a 2,500-plus decrease in jobs in government and government corporations.
In recent months, Minnis has been Island-hopping on public funds in an effort to sway voters. Though Minnis has failed to directly respond to rumors that he will call an election before May 2022, he recently released a booklet, pleading for votes.
“I am asking for your vote, your support, and your prayers. While there is still more work to be done, I am proud of all we have accomplished in Killarney, and looking forward to accomplishing much more,” Minnis said in the booklet, “Killarney Minnis: See Our Progress”.