Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley, has assured the public that despite a financial oversight of over $13 million related to the implementation of the new public service salary structure, there will be no layoffs within the government.
The premier made the announcement during a recent press conference, following concerns raised by a local journalist about the government’s financial position.
Premier Wheatley acknowledged the significant budgetary challenge posed by the oversight but emphasized that his administration remains committed to fulfilling its financial obligations. He explained that an assessment has been conducted to ensure that the government can meet both its current and future budgetary needs without resorting to job cuts.
Premier Wheatley cautioned that the upcoming budgets will be “tight,” given the reduction in surplus resulting from the salary structure miscalculation. He highlighted that the budgetary impacts of the oversight will be felt in upcoming fiscal years, necessitating stricter financial planning.
Dr. Wheatley also disclosed that an internal audit has commenced within the Ministry of Finance to investigate how the oversight occurred.
He emphasized that the government takes the situation seriously and promised that those responsible for the financial blunder would be held accountable.