KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s government has inaugurated a transformative flexible work program for its public sector, scheduled for phased implementation commencing February 2, 2026. The initiative introduces multiple staggered work schedules designed to modernize public service operations while enhancing efficiency and employee satisfaction.
The flexible arrangements will offer five distinct work windows: 6:30 AM to 3:00 PM; 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM; 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (traditional hours); 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM; and 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM. This structured approach aims to optimize public service delivery while accommodating diverse employee needs.
Ambassador Audrey Marks, Minister of Efficiency, Innovation and Digital Transformation, characterized the move as a strategic component of Jamaica’s comprehensive public-sector modernization agenda. “This implementation represents an important and deliberate step in Jamaica’s ongoing public-sector transformation programme,” she stated during the official launch at Jamaica House on January 29.
The minister emphasized that while participation remains voluntary, the government strongly encourages adoption across eligible departments. Approximately 32 government entities have already piloted elements of the Flexible Work Programme with positive results, providing a foundation for broader implementation.
Minister Marks clarified that traditional 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM schedules would remain universally available, ensuring no employee is compelled to adopt alternative hours. The program acknowledges that certain essential positions may not accommodate flexible arrangements due to operational requirements.
The initiative operates under the legal framework established by the 2014 Employment Flexible Work Arrangements Miscellaneous Provisions Act, which legitimizes various flexible work models including staggered hours, hybrid arrangements, telecommuting, compressed work weeks, and hour banking systems. This legislation carefully balances worker well-being with maintained service standards and organizational performance.
This systematic implementation marks the government’s transition from policy development to actionable programming, beginning with the public sector as a model for modern workforce management practices.