PHILIPSBURG:--- MP Ardwell Irion used his time during the Central Committee meeting on May 7th, 2025, to shed light on the frustration of justice workers and the critical areas the government needs to address. His contributions centered on unmet expectations, financial transparency, jubilee entitlements, and the handling of over-functioning FTEs in the Justice Ministry.
Addressing Unmet Expectations
MP Irion emphasized the importance of rebuilding trust between the Ministry of Justice and justice workers. He pointed to unmet expectations stemming from a lack of communication and transparency over placement timelines. Irion proposed publishing departmental breakdowns of delays to provide clarity and manage expectations.
“One of the main issues you’re facing is unmet expectations,” he stated. “Justice workers need to see a clear timeline for their departments and roles. Without this, the frustration will only grow.”
He also raised the long-standing issue of justice workers still awaiting national decrees (LBs) dating back to 10.10.10, asking for details about plans to settle these longstanding cases and the total amount due to retroactive payments.
Financial Questions Surrounding Retroactive Payments
To promote greater accountability, Irion called for clarity on the financial implications of resolving outstanding payments for justice workers. He stressed the importance of incorporating these amounts into upcoming budgets, noting that some workers had already expressed concerns about their payments not being reflected in financial planning.
“What is the total retroactive payment package for all justice workers going back to 10.10.10?” he asked, urging the Ministry to provide a definitive number to alleviate speculation.
Jubilee Entitlements
MP Irion also raised concerns regarding jubilee entitlements under recently published legislation. The law, retroactively effective as of January 1st, 2024, guarantees bonuses for milestone years of service. However, Irion noted that workers without signed LBs may be excluded, despite meeting eligibility criteria.
“How many justice workers are entitled to jubilees, and will their entitlements be prioritized once their LBs are signed?” he questioned. Irion urged the Ministry to address this issue by working closely with the Minister of Finance and the Prime Minister to ensure adequate budgetary provisions.
Over-Functioning FTEs and Misplaced Expectations
Irion highlighted challenges with over-functioning full-time equivalents (FTEs), where departments exceed their personnel caps yet employ individuals who were promised specific roles. He stressed the need for fairness and clear communication in reassigning workers to other departments.
“When shifting individuals to new roles, are you considering their qualifications and preferences? What happens if someone declines reassignment after being promised a particular position by previous administrations?” he asked, warning of the risks associated with promises that created unrealistic expectations.
Irion also called attention to the broader issue of individuals functioning in roles for years without formal recognition in government records, urging the Ministry to resolve these legacy issues with justice workers who were misled by outdated practices.
Moving Forward
MP Irion concluded by stressing the government’s responsibility to address these concerns systematically while maintaining fairness and transparency. His remarks underscored the need to balance meeting justice workers’ expectations with responsible financial management and operational efficiency.
“Justice workers deserve clarity, respect, and the assurance that government will fulfill its obligations to them. If we don’t rebuild this trust, the challenges will persist,” Irion stated.
His contributions added depth to the ongoing conversation, highlighting the critical steps needed to resolve justice workers’ grievances once and for all.