Government launches phased flexible work programme for public servants

The Government has officially launched the implementation of flexible work arrangements within the public sector, starting on a phased basis on February 2, with staggered working hours.

The staggered working hours include 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Minister of Efficiency, Innovation and Digital Transformation, Ambassador Audrey Marks, said the implementation represents an important and deliberate step in Jamaica’s ongoing public-sector transformation programme.

Minister Marks noted that the initiative is designed to build a public service that is more efficient, accountable, customer focused and better equipped to meet the needs of a modern Jamaica.

“There are approximately 32 government entities that have already implemented some aspects of the Flexible Work Programme and have shared positive feedback. So, we are now going into the full implementation of flexible work arrangements starting on a phased basis on February 2, 2026,” she said at Thursday's official launch at Jamaica House.

“I wish to highlight that traditional working hour 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the public sector will remain available to all employees,” the minister said.

The minister said while the implementation of staggered working hours is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended.

“Given the nature of employees’ duties, staggered working hours may not be available to all categories of staff, but where there is flexibility, the government entities are encouraged to implement Flexible Working Arrangements and those that have implemented it before will, of course, continue,” she said.

In 2014, Jamaica introduced the Employment Flexible Work Arrangements Miscellaneous Provisions Act, which established a legal framework for flexible work arrangements.

The law sought to strike a balance by supporting worker well-being while maintaining standards, service standards and organisational performance. The law facilitates options such as staggered working hours, hybrid work, telecommuting, compressed work week and banking of hours.

Ambassador Marks noted that the launch signals the Government’s intention to move beyond policy into systematic implementation, starting with the public sector.

In welcoming the initiative, President, Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions (JCTU), St Patrice Ennis, said this approach recognises the daily realities faced by workers, including the long commutes, the transportation costs, the family responsibilities and the need for greater resilience in an increasingly uncertain environment.

“We particularly acknowledge the inclusive approach adopted through consultation with key stakeholders, including the trade union movement... . We note this initiative is grounded in an established legal and policy framework and is being pursued through a phased approach,” he said.

“This allows for careful monitoring, evaluation, and adjustment as the programme evolves. From the perspective of the JCTU, flexibility must never mean insecurity. Flexible work arrangement must enhance work not erode rights,” he added.

He added that the initiative must not be used to weaken terms and conditions of employment, bypass collective bargaining, or impose unilateral changes without consultation

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