Non-essential gov’t offices reopen following Melissa, no loss of vacation days for employees unable to report to work

Non-essential public sector employees who cannot report to work due to being impacted by Hurricane Melissa will not lose vacation days for their absence.

All non-essential government offices were directed to reopen today, based on consultations with the Meteorological Service of Jamaica and the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM).

As a result, non-essential public sector employees facing difficulties—whether due to transportation challenges, property damage, or other personal matters—are encouraged to communicate with their supervisors or the heads of their entities as soon as possible.

Policy directives have been issued to ensure that flexibility is provided to support employees in their return to work.

Given these unique circumstances, non-attendance today due to being affected by Hurricane Melissa will not be recorded, and no public servant will have their leave balance charged if they need to remain at home.

The Government has expressed gratitude to all essential workers for maintaining critical public services throughout the passage of Hurricane Melissa.

Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.