Cyprus’ Minister for Finance has introduced three Public Service Reform Bills to Parliament, expressing the hope they will bring the “Odyssey” of reform to an end.
The Minister, Constantinos Petrides said this was the third time the Bills had come before legislators — the first time was six years ago.
“I hope that after a very good session in Parliament, this Odyssey will reach its end and I expect the necessary majority will be secured,” Mr Petrides (pictured) said afterwards.
He emphasised provisions relating to the management of human resources, describing it as a very important pillar for the smooth operation of the Public Service.
“It concerns promotions, hirings and the review system. The current staff review system, which essentially rates the overwhelming majority as ‘exceptional’, cannot continue,” the Minister said.
“These reforms will also see a change in the way people are promoted, introducing objective criteria beyond the years of service or nepotism,” he said.
“The changes will boost productivity and stamp out nepotism and corruption.”
Mr Petrides said it was important not to wrong those who were worthy, and give incentives of development to Public Servants who worked hard and had abilities.
He said that beyond the staff issues, digitisation was another big change, with Government Departments gradually going online.
Lawmaker, Christiana Erotokritou said it was regretful that Parliament was still discussing the reform Bills that were an obligation under Cyprus’ bailout program in 2013.
“Society expects the reform to mean a faster, simpler, transparent and user-friendly provision of services,” Ms Erotokritou said.
Nicosia, 28 November 2021
