Minister Jose Mai: ‘we need to know what’s happening’ following wide sickouts by public officers

Two weeks ago, we reported on a far-reaching sickout undertaken by public officers. Ministries and departments ranging from the Magistracy to the Tax Services and even the Ministry of Agriculture were affected. The Public Service Union, it appears, has taken umbrage at the request for reports of those officers who called in sick on February 15. The concern is that those officers who weren’t at work will get their salaries docked. When asked about it yesterday, Agriculture Minister Jose Mai said the ministry needs to know what’s going on because the welfare of public officers is a top priority.