Philipsburg----- Head of Island Labour Rafi Boasman can no longer sign working permits, the decision would rest solely with the executive council confirmed head of the sector Joireen Wuite. Wuite said the executive council took the decision some two weeks ago to revoke the mandate of the department head. She said even though the written notification has not yet been given to Boasman she already notified him of the decision that was taken by the executive council. “Even though the administrative work is not completed the decision taken by the council still stands.” Wuite said.
Wuite explained that all incoming requests for work permits would be decided by the executive council and not the department as stipulated in the new revised labour policy. Even though losing his mandate Boasman remains head of the department.
Reliable sources had said the decision was sent to the Lt. Governor for his signature.
SMN News understands that even the advise that is made by Boasman and sent to the executive council does not bear his signature.
Wuite confirmed that the department is still using the revised labour policy that went into effect on January 12 until consultations with the stakeholders are complete. She said whenever the consultations are over and the necessary changes are made then the department would then adopt them.
SMN News had reported last week a decision was taken by the council to revoke the mandate of Boasman due to the fact that there maybe some sort of conflict of interest that is linked to the department heads and agencies that are processing labour permits for companies.