Dear Editor,

I’m eagerly awaiting the transformation of the public sector. There are too many people simply warming chairs and occupying office spaces which rightfully they should not be in.

Nepotism and McGregor’s ‘Y’ type government employees are the Achilles heels of growth and development. They have caused havoc in the lives of countless citizens.

Now, lest my premise be misunderstood, I’m more interested in seeing a job being done properly than in knowing who has the job. So, if an individual cannot get a job done properly, another person should be employed.

It should not take the voice of a ‘big shot’ to get things done in Jamaica, or for basic duties to be carried out, especially in the public sector. That is a sad state of affairs, but so are the affairs of this sad State.

I’m pleased that the Director of Public Prosecutions Paula Llewellyn and Justice Minister Delroy Chuck could have a first-class seat for a ride from some of the inept public sector workers who constantly try to justify their lukewarm behaviour. That level of insensitivity and uncaring way of doing business should not be seen in public servants anywhere, but it is what the ordinary citizen must endure on a daily basis.

I have had two recent experiences with public servants which are worthy of being aired, but I’ll only share one. I went to the Registrar General’s Department (RGD) to collect a document which I applied for online. After joining a line and patiently waiting to present the information received by e-mail after making my payment online. I was informed by the teller at RGD office that I cannot get the document at her window with my digital information, and I would have to join another line to get the same digital information printed on a page at another window.

I queried why is it that I need to join another line to get it printed when I have the invoice and reference number on my phone. I was told that is the procedure. So I further asked the teller, “Why are you not able to print it from your computer?”

She replied, “Sir, ah so dem say it fi go.”

I just shook my head and complied. Going to two windows getting a printed page in order to pick up a document I applied for and paid for online. I consider that a waste of time, resources, and unnecessary overlapping of roles.

Why do I need a physical document in order to complete or collect a digital order?

I know there are far worse experiences compared to mine; nevertheless, we could do well with a sifting of personalities in search of talent or a shuffling of the deck. Too many jokers in one pack.

Joseph Edwards

jdocforreal@gmail.com