In a decisive early morning meeting on Monday, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Hon. Dr. Vindhya Persaud, conveyed a strong message to staff at the Linden Probation Office regarding the urgent need for enhanced service delivery across the Ministry’s offices nationwide.
Minister Persaud introduced her planned Open Days, which will enable citizens to meet with her directly, share their concerns, and discuss their experiences accessing services. She expressed concern over numerous complaints related to treatment, efficiency, and follow-up within the Ministry, emphasizing that such issues are unacceptable for an organization dedicated to serving the nation’s most vulnerable groups.
“We hear complaints about the way people are treated, about efficiency, and about the follow-up system, and this should not happen in the Human Services Ministry. While I recognize the challenges you face, we must prioritize the needs of the people,” she said.
The Minister urged staff to uphold professionalism, stressing the importance of leaving personal matters outside the workplace. “You cannot bring your bad day to the office or let personal issues affect how you deal with clients. What we do as a ministry is vital,” she underscored.
Addressing specific issues, including delays in issuing Old Age Pension, Public Assistance, and Permanent Disability booklets, Minister Persaud described these delays as “unacceptable.” She assured attendees of her Open Day in Linden later that day that their matters would be resolved immediately.
Moreover, Minister Persaud emphasized the need for urgent improvements in child protection responses. She highlighted the importance of timely actions and efficient follow-ups to ensure that children are swiftly removed from unsafe environments.
Encouraging teamwork, she remarked on the necessity of building a strong collaborative network to tackle critical issues effectively. “Quality service cannot depend solely on individual efforts but requires a collective commitment from everyone, from office staff to frontline workers.”
As the Minister concluded her address, she expressed her desire to see issues resolved and services restored without delay. “True progress requires integrated services, teamwork, and full commitment. This work cannot be done halfway,” Minister Persaud affirmed.
