Gov't and public sector unions settle outstanding wage issues

By Halshane Burke/Lorraine Walker   

 

Thousands of public sector workers are breathing easier after an agreement was reached between the government and their unions on outstanding items under the public sector compensation review.

 

Under the programme, the scores of wage bands within the public sector were simplified and several of the allowances absorbed into their salaries.

 

But there had been several allowances for which there was no consensus, resulting in a stand-off between government and the unions.

 

St. Patrice Ennis, President of the Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions (JCTU), said the agreement brings an end to months of negotiations on several sticking points under the new wage framework for employees in the public sector.

 

Mr. Ennis said the agreement covers, uniform, overtime and the reinstatement and increase in passenger mileage. 

 

Among the points agreed are that passenger mileage will be reinstated at $35 per kilometre and the new date for retroactive mileage is April 1 2022, instead of December 1 2022. Additionally, extra work or overtime and uniform policies are to take effect August 1 this year. 

 

Mr. Ennis said though the new agreement is complementary to the compensation restructuring deal, there are still some outstanding issues to be addressed as there remains instances where supervisors and their subordinates are receiving the same pay, as well as instances where persons are not being properly reimbursed for work expenses. 

 

In the meantime, Finance Minister Dr. Nigel Clarke has expressed relief at the conclusion of outstanding issues under the public sector compensation review.

 

Union leaders had indicated a desire to have the issues resolved prior to Dr. Clarke's departure from government to assume the position of Deputy Managing Director of the IMF on October 31.

 

Speaking with Radio Jamaica News on Friday afternoon, Dr. Clarke said the agreement on outstanding items, which was signed on Friday, required several rounds of discussions and negotiations. 

 

Although the negotiations were protracted, he praised that all parties for remaining respectful throughout the process.