Government changes official working hours

The the government decided today that starting tomorrow, the new official government working hours will be from 8am to 3pm.

Government spokesperson Abbas Adil Riza said that the decision was made after discussion at the Cabinet meeting held today.

Following this change, employees will no longer get a one hour break as before, but there will be a lunch break of thirty minutes from either 12pm to 12.30pm or from 1pm to 1.30pm. Also, a fifteen minute break will be given for afternoon prayers.

The President’s Office said that this decision was made after extensive consultations with the Civil Service Commission, independent state institutions, private sector, and the Civil Servants Association.

Abbas said that the Civil Service Commission will make the necessary regulations following this change, and inform the offices.

Former President Nasheed changed the official government working hours from 8:00 to 4:00 when he took office.