Operations at the Immigration Department are being significantly impacted by the presence of mold, with staff reportedly unable to carry out their duties effectively due to ongoing health and environmental concerns.
According to reports, employees who were previously stationed on the ground floor have been relocated to the upper level of the building, which also houses the department. The move comes amid concerns that the lower office space has been heavily affected by mold.
Up to Wednesday of this week, the situation was further compounded by non-functioning air conditioning in the affected area.
Sources indicate that the mold issue has persisted since the 2017 hurricanes, with some officers reportedly becoming ill and forced to stay home on occasion. There are also reports that some staff have requested transfers due to the conditions.
The relocation of all staff to the upper floor has created additional challenges, including limited space and reduced efficiency. Officers are reportedly unable to easily access necessary files stored downstairs, affecting their ability to assist members of the public.
The situation is also impacting customer service, as the smaller upstairs office is not equipped to accommodate the large number of persons who visit the department daily.
An official from the Immigration Department has acknowledged the issue, stating that steps are being taken to address the mold problem and restore normal operations as soon as possible.
The situation continues to raise concerns about working conditions and service delivery within the department as remediation efforts progress.