Algeria:Projected extension of working hours to 7 pm in evening in Administrative offices

Algerian minister delegate in charge of the reform of the public service, Mohamed El Ghazi, has announced that preparations are underway for reviewing working hours in administrative offices across the country particularly at reception desks.

He indicated that the working hours at administrative offices like post-offices and town-halls among other public services could be extended to 7 pm instead of 4h30 pm presently with the possible opening of some sensitive departments for work during the weekends.

Mr El Ghazi brought into focus a set of remedial measures designed, he said, to upgrade the performance of the Administrative Service and to deepen the fight against the horrendous scourge of corruption and wrongdoing on the part of some ill-advised and ill-intentioned people within some failing administrative facilities.

The Minister warned to this effect that drastic sanctions including legal proceedings would be brought against any offenders adding that red tape and bureaucratic hurdles should be fought at all levels for the benefit of all citizens from all walks of life.

In the context of direct interaction with the citizen, the relevant ministry will launch a website containing all the information needed by the citizens regarding all the administrative configuration files, according to Mr Mohamed El Ghazi.

He also stressed that such a brand-new website would clear the way for citizens to vent their legitimate grievances and put forth their long-neglected requests in order to get a direct and swift reply from the relevant ministerial department itself.