End of increments? Deputy Gov anticipates new reward policy by early 2024
The Deputy Government made the statement during a press conference to update the public on projects within the Office of the Deputy Governor on September 18, 2023.
New Policy to come - Archer Jr
“I anticipate by the beginning of next year we will have a different policy, possibly about how we administer and pay not increments, but how to reward public officers for how well they do.”
Mr Archer Jr added, “Now the system that we currently work, one of increments, requires you to perform well and satisfactorily. In order for you to receive an increment… in light of the compensation review, in light of our questions surrounding pension, we have to take a look at that,” he added.
The Deputy Governor said the new system would be one that persons for the most part can predict. He reminded that the payment of increments or not paying increments does not have anything to do with a 'programme' or 'technology' not being done.
Mr Archer Jr also reminded that the public service has taken many hits, including the World Economic crisis in 2008, the 2017 hurricanes, and the COVID-19 pandemic that came just when the discussion on increments was being started.
Public service has been through a strenuous period - Deputy Governor
“So, we've been through a very strenuous process of trying to value public officers by keeping them engaged, keeping them employed... During the period of COVID for example, we public officers served as the breadwinners for many houses, many households, where persons were laid off for over two years,” he said.
The Deputy Governor said he is not making an excuse for the payment of increments, but explaining so that persons can understand that increments are not something that technology can sort, rather, it takes time and patience.
“On the heels of that, in 2024 we will have a policy which allows us at minimum to know what's the value of compensation, but you can anticipate a different model of how we compensate persons,” he added.
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28 Responses to “End of increments? Deputy Gov anticipates new reward policy by early 2024”
It is an outrage to have performance related pay in the public sector.
If I had wanted to have my performance reviewed, I would not have joined the Government.
The recent statement by Deputy Governor Mr. David D. Archer Jr regarding the change in how public officers will be rewarded comes at a significant juncture in our society's evolution. As technological advancements continue to redefine governance and public administration globally, Tortola seems poised to embrace this change. Yet, there are implications worth considering, particularly in light of global trends.
A New System on the Horizon
Mr. Archer Jr’s emphasis on a new policy that will reward public officers based on performance signifies a departure from the traditional "increments" system. On the surface, this appears to be a step towards meritocracy, where officers are recognized and rewarded for their contributions.
However, it's essential to critically assess the nature of this 'different policy'. The Deputy Governor emphasized that this system would be predictable, but what does this entail? In a world of increasing digitization, could this mean a transition to a more data-driven approach similar to the 'China model' we've previously discussed?
Drawing Parallels: Digital IDs and Performance Metrics
While Mr. Archer Jr has clarified that technology doesn't directly influence the payment of increments, the phrasing leaves room for interpretation. Could the new system be modeled after digital performance tracking mechanisms? Such systems can provide a more 'predictable' model, as mentioned by the Deputy Governor, by relying on predefined metrics and algorithms to gauge performance.
As we've seen with the China model of the social credit score, centralized data collection becomes a potent tool in the hands of governance. If Tortola's new system relies heavily on digitized performance metrics, it might set a precedent for data-driven governance, which, if unchecked, could lead to potential surveillance concerns.
Public Officers: The Pioneers of Change?
The Deputy Governor acknowledges the challenges the public service has faced, from global economic crises to natural disasters. The resilience shown by the public officers, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, is commendable. They have indeed been the pillars of society, supporting many households.
Given this backdrop, introducing a new system for public officers could be seen as a 'testing ground'. If the new rewarding model proves effective within this domain, it's not far-fetched to assume that similar systems might be introduced in other sectors, gradually encompassing the larger populace.
A Future of Unprecedented Oversight?
While the specific details of Tortola's new rewarding system are yet to be unveiled, the announcement hints at a broader global trend. The fusion of technology, governance, and public administration is inevitable. Yet, as with any innovation, there's a fine line between advancement and overreach.
As Tortola ventures into this new era, it becomes imperative for citizens and policymakers alike to remain vigilant. Ensuring that any new system upholds the principles of fairness, transparency, and respect for individual rights will be paramount. As the world watches, Tortola has a unique opportunity to set a precedent, either as a beacon of progressive governance or a cautionary tale of the perils of unchecked digitization.
Are we getting our overdue increments now or what ???
For the record we had no scheme in place. Smh
It should be based on job performance as you said. but the hardworking employees who work above and beyond the call of duty does not get what they deserve. instead the managers (whoever grades them) get the fat payouts and the minimum wage employee gets jacksh**.
I feel for these employees. Waiting so long for their increments and instead of giving them a tentative date, they put out a new initiative.
While I’m at it, let say a special thank you to the staff at the Passport Office for your assistance. Greatly appreciated. Thanks
I know some Government will never get any increment but they only mark time.
But pay me first.