6,000 vacancies of various posts in civil service

6,000 vacancies of various posts in civil service


Switch roles: Sa Bali Abas, the PSD Director General delivering his speech yesterday.Picture: BT/Jefrisalas
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Friday, November 21, 2008

Civil servants must be able to assume tasks of absent staff or unfilled positions

THERE were hushed whispers when Director General of the Public Service Department, Sa Ali Abas, indicated in his opening speech yesterday that there were currently 6,000 vacancies in the various government sectors. Although the director general did not qualify his statement, he clearly indicated the number of posts lying vacant.

The speech was given yesterday in a briefing on the memo issued by the Prime Minister's Office on proper procedures and guidelines on appointment of temporary officers to fill the duties of absent colleagues or vacant positions at the Bertabur Hall of the Ministry of Development.

Speaking on the memo, the director general said that the switching of roles and taking on of tasks left by an absent employee or a unfilled position should be used to the fullest extent by civil servants to gain more experience and a steady hand in their work which will enhance and develop their career.

"The need to continuously develop is essential for an individual so as to keep up with the challenges brought about by globalisation," he said.

He pointed out that, with the current financial turmoil, the world was faced with a greater challenge to overcome constraints. "The need to constantly equip yourself with new skills is crucial to buffer against any economic volatility that may occur," he said.

"This is certain to generate economic benefits as the public sector enhances its operations the efficiency spin-offs can be achieved in the real economy. As Brunei aims to diversify its economic base, the importance of the public sector is indeed crucial as it would be able to facilitate the sustainable growth of the nation."

He added that there were several weaknesses which needed to be ironed out in the current administration including the condition that replacement staff are not allowed to give directives during the absence of an officer. This and several other aspects will be worked on, said Sa Bali Abas.

The responsibility for appointment of replacements lie in the hands of heads or supervisors of each and every department who has to ensure that the appointed officers are capable to take over the tasks to prevent any complaints or misunderstandings.

The director general stressed that the memo should be filled in compliance with the guidelines and added: "The last thing that anyone wants to hear is replacement officers' payment is retracted due to the memo not complying with the standards."

The Brunei Times