Reply: There are presently certain posts in the public service which may be filled on a contractual basis or in an acting capacity from among eligible serving public officers in view of the sensitive nature of the responsibilities devolving upon such positions. These serving officers perform duties pertaining exclusively to the higher positions and are eligible for payment of an acting allowance and benefits attached to the higher posts. They are also eligible for pension benefits on the basis of the emoluments of the higher posts in case they have performed in the higher positions for a period of one year or more or for a period of at least six months upon reaching compulsory retirement age. Acting appointment or assignment of duties to higher posts, in all other cases, are generally resorted to fill short-term temporary gaps arising out of vacancies or extended absences of officers to ensure operational continuity of Government services. These public officers are eligible for payment of an allowance at the approved rates. They are also eligible for payment of end-of-year bonus if they have served in the higher position for a continuous period of at least four months in a calendar year and payment of pension benefits on the basis of the emoluments of the higher posts if they have performed the higher duties for a period of at least two years or an aggregate period of at least two years within a period of three years. Generally, acting appointment and assignment of duties have a positive effect on the motivation and job satisfaction of assignees as the general conditions governing such arrangements recognise the officers’ competence, experience, potential for growth, development of managerial skills and acquisition of valuable practical experience. Government remains firmly committed to the promotion of decent work, social justice and respect for internationally recognised labour standards. The terms and conditions relating to acting appointments or assignment of duties as recommended by the PRB in terms of career growth, personal development and contribution to social growth do comply with the fundamental principles of the Decent Work Agenda of ILO. Taking into consideration the package of incentives underpinning acting appointment and assignment of duties as set out above, it would not be appropriate to limit the duration of the period of assignment as it would be to the detriment of officers concerned. RODRIGUES – NATIONAL COOPERATIVE POLICY – COLLABORATION & COOPERATION CALENDAR