The Bermuda Public Service Union has voted to make the president’s position a full-time, paid post.

During an emergency general meeting held last Friday, members voted in favour of the changes previously approved by the union’s General Council. Of the 350 members in attendance, 274 voted for the proposal while 69 voted against and seven ballots were spoiled.

BPSU president Jason Hayward said yesterday: “The membership of the BPSU decided via vote to make the office of president an elected full-time paid position. This decision ratifies the very same decision made by the General Council of the BPSU on Monday February 2, 2015.

“This is a historic move for the BPSU that instantaneously strengthens the leadership of the organisation. I am personally elated and grateful for the membership’s support.”

Mr Hayward has served as union president since March last year, when Kevin Grant stepped down. Mr Hayward had been involved in the union of almost a decade, serving as shop steward and first vice president before becoming president.

He recently made headlines as one of the leaders of the Bermuda Trade Union Congress, who were involved in a three-day action against Government over the potential continuation of furlough days beyond March 31.

The Government subsequently agreed that further furlough days would be a last resort as they continue their efforts to reduce spending in advance of the 2015/16 budget.