The Public Service Commission today stated that great effort will be taken to assure public that civil servants fully appreciate their role and functions in government and public service.

This assurance arises from recent communications between Director of Education, Mr. Uiliami Fukofuka and Mr. Vili Vete an executive member of the PSA in which allegations were made that civil servants are being threatened for their involvement in political activities.

Mrs. Mishka Tu'ifua, Chairperson of the Commission said that the Commission supports Fukofuka...’s position and will continue to advocate that civil servants have a unique role that is not negotiable and clearly differentiates them from private sector employees.

She emphasized that it is important that civil servants follow processes provided by Public Service (Grievance and Dispute Resolution) Regulations 2006 which allows the Commission and civil servants opportunities to resolve employment grievances and failing to follow these procedures will not allow matters to be addressed effectively.

Mrs. Tu'ifua encourages Heads of Departments to vigorously advocate to their staff the importance of following due process and to continue discussions until matters are resolved internally.

The Secretary for PSC, Mrs 'Apisake Soakai, stated "the PSC Department is committed to progressing issues surrounding employee grievances and would like to see focused discussions on issues relevant to and directly impacting civil service performance.

She also said that the Department will continue to explore options that will allow effective communication and positive relationship with interest groups such as PSA and others".

Civil servants may participate in political events but they will require clearance from their Heads of Department. Constitutional rights of each individual in the service is fully recognized however exercising that right must also carry with it greater responsibility. PSC, o5/09/07.