Wednesday, November 25 2009

WITH JUST two days remaining for the start of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Port-of-Spain, fire officers are threatening to stay away from duties.

The threat came in light of letters from Chief Fire Officer Justin Bowen informing them that they have been bypassed for promotion, although some officers have been in acting positions for as long as three years.

In a media briefing yesterday at the Fire Services Association office on Edward Street, Port-of-Spain, president Charles Ramsaroop said they were disenchanted with the process of promotion.

On September 22, a verbal agreement was made between the association and Bowen on the introduction of a points system. “We had a choice, one, either, we agree to the implementation of a points system...and get some form of consultation and input, and on the other hand, do not accept the points system, and no consultation.” Ramsaroop said with the points system two observers assessed appraisal forms to see whether an officer was awarded the points in six categories. They include: general fitness, education qualification, relative experience, commendation, performance appraisal, and disciplinary records.

“What we understand is that officers scored beyond 75 percent, and yet they are still being overlooked for promotion. We are questioning the fairness of the system,” Ramsaroop said.

Bowen yesterday confirmed letters were given to junior officers who scored higher in the points system than their seniors. “ I never told them that they are not being considered for promotion. It is just that they are not being promoted at this time, but their names will be placed on a merit list.” Bowen warned officers they would be breaking the law if they protested because they are an essential service.