KINGSTON, Jamaica — Following an advisory that public sector workers are to return to work on Thursday following the passage of Hurricane Beryl, the Government has sought to reassure the public that those facing challenges will not be penalised for their absence.

In a release on Thursday, it was announced that “if the circumstances do not provide for attendance at work, the Government encourages any employee experiencing difficulties to contact their supervisors or entity head as flexibility will be provided to ensure their well-being while maintaining essential services.”

It went on further to advise that non-attendance at work as a result of difficulties resulting from the hurricane, “will not be placed on record” and that “no public servant will have their leave balance charged if they need to remain at home.”

“Preliminary reports are that mobile phone service in sections of the island is currently unavailable arising from the passage of Beryl. Therefore, given the unique circumstances, non-attendance at work today due to being affected by Hurricane Beryl will not be placed on record. No public servant will have their leave balance charged if they need to remain at home,” the release read in full.

“The Government is committed to the well-being of all Jamaicans, including public sector workers and sympathises with everyone affected by the Hurricane,” it added. “We are also committed to ensuring that Jamaicans have access to public services as we begin the recovery from Hurricane Beryl.”