The Public Service Commission (PSC) is consulting with relevant stakeholders, including the Office of the Attorney General, Government Remuneration Tribunal, and the Ministry of Finance, after receiving a VT 1.6 million petition from medical officers requesting risk allowance for work during the December 2024 earthquake.
The petition, signed by 365 medical officers, seeks VT 300,000 each for a 15-day period, totaling VT 106 million, covering officers in Shefa Health, Vanuatu National Hospital, and the Ministry of Health Administration.
The PSC clarified that, under the Public Service Staff Manual, all government officers are entitled to VT 1,800 per day in risk allowance. During the earthquake, Ministry of Health staff received VT 27,000 for the 15-day period, with a total of VT 10 million spent for Ministry staff.
PSC Chairman Meto Nganga emphasized that the proposed amount was not included in the 2025 budget and requires careful consultation with key stakeholders.
“The earthquake occurred in December 2024, and risk allowance entitlements were paid accordingly. The Ministry of Health only submitted a formal request in August 2025,” Nganga said.
He reminded health workers of their oath to serve the public faithfully, noting that all public servants must uphold the Constitution and respect government procedures.
“As a Good Employer, PSC ensures employees receive their entitlements while balancing financial and administrative responsibilities,” Nganga added.
