All non-essential government services will be temporarily suspended on December 27, December 30, and December 31, 2024, to allow for the Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. Prime Minister and Minister for Civil Service Sitiveni Rabuka confirmed that essential services will remain operational during this time, with staff arrangements made to ensure these services continue to be delivered.

Rabuka acknowledged that while there will be a significant reduction in staff over this period, essential services and scheduled operations will persist. He emphasized the importance of this break for government employees, encouraging them to spend quality time with family and loved ones.

Moreover, Rabuka urged Permanent Secretaries to motivate their staff to take their leave during this closure. He also noted that it is at the discretion of each Permanent Secretary to determine if essential services require a skeletal staff presence during this time.

In his message, Rabuka expressed his gratitude for the vital role civil servants have played in nation-building throughout the year. He wished them, along with their families, a peaceful and joyous Christmas and a prosperous new year.

This well-deserved break serves as a reminder of the importance of work-life balance, particularly during the festive season, allowing government employees to recharge and strengthen family bonds.