Bernard Antoine chairs new Public Service Commission

The Grenadian government has initiated a comprehensive restructuring of its Public Service Commission (PSC), with several key membership changes announced through an official notice in the 12 December 2025 Government Gazette. Former Chairperson Deborah St Bernard, who had held the position since November 2022, will not continue for a second three-year term, alongside commissioners Judy Benoit and Jim Alexander.

The newly reconstituted commission will be chaired by Bernard Antoine, with additional members including Faye Thompson (returning from the previous commission), Patricia Telesford, Adrian Francis representing the Public Workers Union, and James Alexander representing the Grenada Union of Teachers. This newly formed team is scheduled to commence their official duties on 22 November 2025, serving a standard three-year term.

Established under Section 83 of the Grenada Constitution, the PSC operates as an autonomous entity with clearly defined appointment protocols. The Chairman and two members are appointed by the Governor-General following recommendations from the Prime Minister, while the remaining two members are selected after consultation with appropriate representative bodies, specifically the Grenada Union of Teachers and the Grenada Civil Service Association. The Constitution explicitly mandates that no appointments can proceed without obtaining agreement from these consulted organizations.

Commission members are required to take official oaths of allegiance and office, affirming their operational independence from external influence or control when executing their constitutional responsibilities. The PSC maintains critical authority over public service personnel matters, including appointments, disciplinary actions, removals from office, and leave approvals, as outlined in Section 84(1) of the Constitution, subject only to provisions in Section 91.