After over three months, the stalemate between the Public Service Committee and the government has finally come to an end. They had been unable to meet since November 5th because GOB was waiting for the Barrow - appointed members to resign, even though they were not required to with the change of government.
But with urgent matters for the public service adding up, the government finally conceded. But whether it's for the long term or just the interim, remains unclear.
Their first meeting after that stalemate took place on February 19th and the PSC attended to over 70 pending matters. Without their meeting, matters of promotions, demotions, pensions, and more could not have taken place for public servants. Reports say that the approval of a post for an acting Director of Health Services was not approved.
But, still, the acting DHS Dr Melissa Diaz has won a rare endorsement. In a letter sent to the Minister of Health Michel Chebat on Thursday, the BMDA expressed their satisfaction with the management of the pandemic with Dr Diaz leading the charge as DHS. They said that the member doctors are pleased with the availability of PPE's as of recent and the quickness with which they are able to identify, isolate and treat COVID patients - which leads to a decrease in numbers.
But, even with that ringing endorsement, reports suggest that Dr. Diaz may not be long for the job - and may be going back to her substantive post in the Ministry. She would not confirm or deny that today when we asked via text for a comment.
But, the man she replaced, Dr Marvin Manzanero is still - so to speak - twisting in the wind. Sources tell us that he was today given a letter to consider accepting a demotion. Sources tell us he hasn't answered yet and is seeking the counsel of the Public Service labour unions who have complained bitterly about the Ministry's lack of regard for a head of department in an established post.
