And from the hope for a citrus solution to the government's chipping solution for the wage bill…The Public Service Minister announced to them via a letter that he would fix their salaries in the constitution, regardless of their position.
Today, to try and launch a soft offensive on reform, the media was offered an interview with the Attorney General, Magali Marin Young - a member of Cabinet with clean hands, unstained by the sanguinary acts of her politician colleagues.
We asked her whether the minister should have this much power.
Magali Marin Young, Attorney General
"As I understand it, from listening to Prime Minister Briceno that yes the intent initially is for a fixed period but the government has undertaken to review annually the fiscal position and if it is that we can afford to revert back to the salaries pre any reduction that is made that he is going to do so."
Reporter:
"Should the minister have this authority?"
Magali Marin Young, Attorney General
"Well the constitution clearly gives it to him and an employer has a right to fix salaries."
Courtney Menzies:
"Are you able to explain the part of this constitution that gives him this authority?"
Magali Marin Young, Attorney General
"Well there is an express provision under the constitution that gives the minister of public service to impose regulations as it relates to public officers but of course it requires consultation to fix salaries."
Reporter:
"Would you say this move could be challenged in terms of adequate consultation?"
Magali Marin Young, Attorney General
"Well it is always available to the unions and to any member of the public to challenge any decision of the government. Mr Haylock did so recently, unsuccessfully, but it is always open, we live in a democracy, we have a functioning court system so that's always a possibility."
