Public Servants in PNG urged to Get Vaccinated

The Secretary for the Papua New Guinea Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council, Ivan Pomaleu, has called on all public servants in the country to get vaccinated.

This is to ensure government work continues in light of the rapid rise in COVID-19 cases in the country.

PNG Public Servants urged to Get Vaccinated . Photo by PNG Today

He says the need to keep important government services functioning, and the need to keep the economy active, the department has considered it important to encourage public servants to take the vaccine to protect themselves, their co-workers, their families and those who receive services from them.

According to the circular notice released by the Chief Secretary, Ivan Pomaleu, Government should make a call for bureaucracy and the public services to take the lead in getting vaccinated in order to protect themselves, their co-workers and their families as well. 

He says this is an appeal to reason not a mandatory imposition to anyone.

All heads of departments, provinces and agencies are also encouraged to make specific arrangements to bring vaccination teams to their offices to provide an opportunity for all their staff to be vaccinated. 

He says the country’s health system is not efficient and front-line medical workers need the support of everyone to fight this pandemic.

Getting vaccinated is one way each individual can help minimize bed space occupancy in our medical facilities with Limited facilities reserved for those who are old, vulnerable, weak and those with pre-existing conditions.

The Circular stated that if anyone decides not to be vaccinated, they are encouraged to continue to observe all the Niupla Pasin COVID 19 Protocols, including all directives that are issued from the Controller’s Office from time to time.

The Secretary for Department of Personnel Management Ms Taies Sansan in supporting this circular notice also encourages public servants to get vaccinated. 

She says it is voluntary but it is up to every individual to make those judgements.

Secretary Sansan and the chief Censor were among staff from DPM, Immigration & Citizenship Authority, Foreign Affairs and other state agencies who got their jabs at the central government Building.

In Port Moresby, there are currently three locations that the public can go to receive their choice of vaccines, the Astra – Zenecca vaccine is given at Rita Flynn Courts, Johnson and Johnson vaccine at Vision City and the Shinofarm Vaccine at Port Moresby General Hospital Car Park.

Statement

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