Operations at the Vieux Fort Ports have come to a standstill for the second consecutive day, as a substantial number of customs officers have called in sick. Saint Lucia Daily Post has learned that this action stems from ongoing, unresolved issues between employees and management, which remain unaddressed.
An employee, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed, “Management is trying to deny that anything is happening. Yesterday, we had more than 90% of the staff call in sick.” The anonymous customs officer further explained that provisions were made for employees from Castries to temporarily fill the vacant positions; however, some were reportedly reluctant to do so.
“This sickout has significantly affected a number of brokers,” the officer continued. “We have longstanding issues, particularly with HR. For instance, there is an officer who has been disciplined and reprimanded for corrupt practices but continues to rise through the ranks, which we believe is not right.”
Efforts to reach the Comptroller for comment were unsuccessful. The southern division has reportedly been grappling with such problems for an extended period, underlining a pressing need for resolution.
