The post of director of the Counter Trafficking Unit (CTU) in Ministry of National Security (MNS) is currently vacant.
And although questions continue to be asked over why former director Alana Wheeler has not been retained in the position, sources close to her said while she had not yet reapplied, a last-minute submission was still possible, as she remains undecided.
Wheeler held the post as CTU deputy director from 2013 to 2016 and then as CTU’ director from 2016 to 2019 and 2019 to 2022.
And just like the previously contracted period, Wheeler proceeded on vacation leave from the end of April until July 1, 2022.
While the unemployed Wheeler refused to speak on the issue yesterday, an official who worked closely with her said, “If she is interested, she would have to go through the whole application process again.”
Describing this as unfair, the senior staffer added, “It is very discouraging to her to have to go through this every three years, because three years ago, she went through this and it was not very pleasant.”
The deadline for applications is July 31.
However, up to yesterday, no application had been received from Wheeler.
Saying performance appraisals are usually completed on persons holding such positions, the official said the ministry introduced a mandate several years ago that the positions of deputy heads and heads be advertised when those contracts come to an end.
Another ministry official confirmed, “This government particularly chose to go the path of advertising positions when they come to an end, so one has to reapply every time.”
Guardian Media understands that a note had been submitted to Cabinet recommending an extension of the position and renewal of Wheeler’s contract, “but Cabinet sent back and said to advertise the position.”
It is believed Wheeler was only informed of this after her contract ended in April.
One of the officials explained, “If a person is interested in renewing the contract, the organisation would normally allow them the opportunity to make a submission for renewal and the person should be informed before the contract comes to an end.”
This, they claimed, would allow for a seamless transition through each contractual period. The officials said Wheeler had accomplished, “quite a lot in the past three years with limited resources.”
They agreed she has the passion for the position, as it was one requiring building relationships and creating trust with clients and victims of human trafficking.
Addressing the issue yesterday, however, National Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds assured citizens that CTU operations will not be disrupted. He said CTU deputy director Kimoy Thomas will take over authority. However, Hinds could not say how soon the post will be filled.