IDT rules in favour of doctors in overtime pay dispute

By Halshane Burke  

 

 

In a 2-1 decision, the Industrial Diputes Tribunal (IDT) has ruled in favour of doctors involved in the impasse with the government in relation to overtime pay and related matters. 

 

Monday's ruling ends a period of acrimony between the doctors, represented by the Jamaica Medical Doctors' Association (JMDA), and the tribunal. 

 

The doctors took industrial action last Friday to press the IDT to deliiver its ruling.

 

The doctors and the government have been at odds over the calculation of overtime rates, with the doctors still receiving the rates set in 2021.

 

Industrial Relations Consultant Lambert Brown has welcomed the IDT's ruling, calling it a delivery of justice for the doctors.

 

"We received the award just after 4 p.m. We can confirm that the award is in favour of the doctors and the two issues before the tribunal. We can also confirm that there is a dissent. We have not yet read the full award, but we are happy, we are satisfied with the outcome. We look forward to meeting with the government to effect the implementation of the award. It has been 42 long months. It's time to put this dispute to an end," said Mr. Brown.