1 day Ago
The Salaries Review Commission (SRC) has proposed increases in the remuneration packages for senior public officials, including the Prime Minister, Opposition Leader, ministers and other elected representatives. The ensuing public discourse has revealed diverse opinions, ranging from outright rejection to conditional acceptance based on subjective criteria. I take this opportunity to contribute to this debate, advocating for the immediate acceptance and implementation of the SRC’s recommendations.
Many criticisms of the proposed increases are driven by subjective biases rather than objective analysis. In our culture, there is an unfortunate tendency to evaluate issues through a lens of personal resentment, often ignoring the broader societal context. A fair and analytical approach is imperative, one that evaluates the offices rather than the individuals holding them.
It is easy to fall into the trap of dismissing the value of public officials’ work or exaggerating their perceived benefits. However, this dismissive attitude often stems from a misunderstanding of the financial and social burdens associated with holding public office. Contrary to popular belief, holding public office in Trinidad and Tobago is not a path to guaranteed wealth.
Many former representatives, despite their dedication, have exited public life financially strained, some even impoverished. Having served as a councillor, deputy mayor and full-time mayor, I can speak from experience. Their struggles are not due to mismanagement, but arise from inadequate compensation that fails to cover the demands of their roles, which often include supporting their constituencies beyond the remit of their official duties.
The role of the Prime Minister, for example, is not merely administrative, but symbolic and representative. This individual is the face of our nation on the global stage, and it is only fitting that they be compensated in a manner befitting the demands and prestige of the position. Similarly, ministers and parliamentarians bear significant responsibilities that often require personal financial sacrifices.
Critics have suggested that public servants are underpaid in comparison to public officials. While this is a valid concern, the solution lies in improving compensation across the board, not in denying increases where they are justified. It is also a misconception that public officials, particularly the Prime Minister, are the highest-paid individuals within the public sector.
Historical examples, such as the salaries of former police commissioners Dwayne Gibbs and Jack Ewatski, show otherwise. Delays in implementing SRC recommendations create a cascade of issues, including hefty backpay obligations and a lack of fairness to officials who served during previous periods without benefiting from proposed adjustments. The notion that implementing these recommendations now could lead to political fallout is speculative and ignores the broader benefits of ensuring equitable compensation for the offices that drive national governance.
Criticisms of public officials often stem from failures within the wider public service. When ministries under-perform, the blame is often laid at the feet of ministers, yet systemic inefficiencies within public institutions are frequently the root cause. Addressing these challenges requires all sectors—public officials and public servants alike—to lift their standards.
The remuneration packages for senior public officials must be viewed as an investment in governance and national development. The proposed adjustments are not about who is currently in office, but about ensuring these roles are appropriately valued, now and in the future. It is imperative that we set aside emotional arguments and consider the SRC’s recommendations with a fair, analytical lens.
Let us not perpetuate a culture of undervaluing public service but, rather, create an environment where public officials are empowered to serve effectively without undue financial strain. I support the immediate and unconditional acceptance and implementation of the SRC’s recommendations—not out of favouritism for current officeholders, but in recognition of the demands and dignity of the offices themselves. This step is long overdue and represents a critical move toward fostering a more equitable and sustainable approach to public service in Trinidad and Tobago.
Abdon Mason Pt Fortin.
