BRADES, Montserrat (March 2, 2011) – In its continued efforts to cut expenditure and balance its budget, the Government of Montserrat announced that it will not be paying increments to civil servants for the financial year 2011/2012.

A circular sent out to all heads of departments last week, said the decision was taken on February 3, 2011 by the Executive Council, as one of several strategies to cut costs within the Public Service. 

“In accordance with Executive Council’s decision no annual increments will be awarded to Public Officers for the financial year April 1, 2011 to March 31, 2012.  This decision was taken given the budgetary constraints that we are experiencing,” the circular signed by Jean Blackstock, Chief Human Resource Office (Ag) stated.

The Human Resources Unit will be sending individual letters to affected staff members and heads of departments are being asked to inform staff of the impending changes.

Persons with questions are being asked to contact Joycelyn Hogan Assistant Secretary, Resourcing and Service Delivery for further assistance.

Chief Minister Meade announced last month that steps were being taken to cut costs and manage the growth of the Public Service. A total of 161 civil servants will be affected for the upcoming fiscal year that begins April 2011.