Woes at Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry Division
Dear Editor,
I have a very dear sister friend who works within the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry Division. The individual is hardworking and when she first started was extremely enthusiastic about her job and the prospects of what she could bring to the table.
In the past few months, she has become less engaged and although I am no expert in the area of psychology, she shows clear signs of depression.
One day when I asked her about her the reason or reasons for this shift in her behavior, thinking that perhaps I have been contributing in some way to her unhappiness, I was really horrified to learn that her daily interactions with a senior officer within her department was the single reason her gloomy disposition.
My friend expressed that there is a troubling situation within her department that has created a toxic work environment for many staff members. It is a situation that not only affects morale but also impacts the overall productivity and well-being of their team.
There is a pattern of behavior from this officer that is causing significant distress among staff. He exhibits traits that can be described as self-absorbed and narcissistic, consistently prioritizing personal accolades over team collaboration while using intimidatory and bullying tactics whenever he interacts with others.
At points, issues have escalated to the point of near physical altercation. A very promising supervisor, I am told, recently resigned from his post to take up work in the private sector, after having enough of this senior officer’s behavior.
My friend explained that most times she feels an overwhelming sense of anxiety about any interactions with this officer who she expressed does not respect or regard the opinions of others and seems to feel threatened when others show leadership in any undertaking. This is truly troubling!
Numerous colleagues have expressed feelings of dread when approaching this officer , fearing undue criticism or humiliation. This atmosphere of intimidation stifles creativity and open communication, resulting in a decline in both morale and productivity.
Team members have reported feeling unsupported and undervalued, leading to increased stress and, in some cases, serious consideration of leaving the organization altogether.
Watching all of this unfold, it is clear that an urgent and decisive intervention is necessary to address this troubling situation. A more supportive and respectful work environment is essential for the well-being of all employees and for the health of the organization as a whole.
I have encouraged my friend to report this to ministry officials but she feels unmotivated to do so due to potential backlash and victimization as this senior officer seems to be very close to the Director. I hope that outlining this issue here will perhaps bring some attention to this matter and perhaps someone who has influence can possibly investigate and bring an end to this tyranny.
Concerned Friend
Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]
This has been happening for years. This senior officer is one of the catalyst with the discontinued project in the Wallings Forest Area and that girl was outside of government. Imagine if he can sway a whole ministry that way what he has done and continue to do to his staff.
Are you sure you’re not refering to Agriculture Extension Division? Or they have one like that in every Government Ministry? Agriculture have a Muslem who don’t want NO women in positions over them or seen as their equal. Their time coming to leave soon 65 bye bye!!
“Muslem”or MOOZLIM??? de wan dat talk so bad dat you cant understand nothng he say?
That is Antigua for you.
It’s full time these people who receive power to lead stop misuing it. This has been going on for a while. I have a relative who works there and my gosh it sounds like hell. Someone needs to step in, a change must come! Let us emancipate them from the slavery-like treatment I have been hearing about. The talk is that this Senior Officer has said that no one can do him anything because he know people in high places. I was surprised when i heard this. I feel it for every one of these workers. Mr Minister they cry for your intervention. It’s not easy. I could only imagine!
Check the MINISTRY OF TRADE ON FRIARS HILL RD TOO
If you want stress, blood pressure, depression and heartache, go work in that place.
You are the one n the Ministey of Trade that keep carrying news on people to make confusion. You do no work and always make mischief like posting this stupid lying message. This is why the public keep asking the powers that be to move you out the Ministry. and send you.back to where you were. None of the people in the area you supervise respect you. You don’t even dress like a proper professional lady. Please Ms. Change your ways and respect yourself and stop lying on one of the most productive Ministries!
One bad apple trying to spoil the whole bunch. Ministry of Trade is far from that place of confusion called Agriculture. STOP THE LIES!