Ministerial Staff Policy
Table of Contents
Title
What is the Ministerial Staff Policy?
It is a policy that explains how ministerial staff are hired, what they do, and how they must behave while working for Ministers and Junior Ministers. It promotes good governance, accountability, and professionalism.
Title
Why is this policy important?
It ensures that ministerial staff:
- Support Ministers effectively
- Act ethically and professionally
- Respect the independence and neutrality of the Public Service
- Help maintain transparency and public trust
Title
Who does this policy apply to?
It applies to all individuals officially appointed as ministerial staff under the Public Service Management Act 2024. It does not apply to consultants or regular public officers.
Title
What do ministerial staff do?
They help Ministers carry out their duties by:
- Providing political and strategic advice
- Supporting communication with the public and media
- Assisting with research and policy development
- Managing schedules and administrative tasks
Title
What types of roles are considered ministerial staff?
Examples include:
- Chief of Staff
- Special Advisers
- Press Secretary and communications staff
- Private Secretaries and administrative staff
- Envoys or overseas representatives
Title
Do ministerial staff replace public officers?
No. They complement the Public Service. Public officers remain politically neutral and handle official administrative functions, while ministerial staff provide political and strategic support.
Title
How are ministerial staff hired?
- They are appointed directly by Ministers (not typically through public advertisements)
- Special advisers require approval from the Premier
- Cabinet is informed of most non-administrative appointments
Title
Are ministerial staff required to follow a code of conduct?
Yes. All ministerial staff must:
- Follow a Code of Conduct
- Take an Oath of Office and Confidentiality
- Declare their interests and any conflicts of interest
Title
Can ministerial staff give instructions to public officers?
No. They cannot direct public officers unless authorised through proper channels and with approval.
Title
Is information about ministerial staff made public?
Yes. The Government will publish:
- Names and roles of non-administrative staff
- Salary scales for these roles
Title
How are ministerial staff paid?
They are paid through the government payroll system. Salaries depend on:
- Experience
- Qualifications
- Role responsibilities
Title
Can ministerial staff participate in politics?
Yes, but with limits:
- Political activities must be done in their own time
- Government resources cannot be used for political purposes
- Conflicts of interest must be avoided
Title
What happens when a ministerial staff member leaves the role?
They must:
- Return all government equipment
- Submit a final report
- Continue to respect confidentiality rules
Title
How can the public access this policy?
The policy is available through:
- Government websites
- Social media channels
- The Premier’s Office and other government offices
See policy below.
Contact Information
Premier's Office -
265 Waterfront Drive
Road Town
Tortola VG1110
British Virgin Islands
Business Hours:
Monday - Friday
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Email: premier@gov.vg
Telephone: 1(284) 468-2152