JLP promises public sector workers will get 'fair' wage offer

 

Jamaica Labour Party campaign chairman Dr. Christopher Tufton has promised public sector workers a fair deal as they agitate for increased wages. 

 

Unions representing government-paid employees have rejected the government's offer of 0% in year one and 2.5% increase over the remaining three years of the four-year contract period. 

 

The Jamaica Teachers' Association and the Jamaica Police Federation have both warned that their members are restive. 

 

The JLP held a media briefing on Thursday where Dr. Tufton was asked about whether the ongoing delays in wage negotiations could hurt the party at the polls.

 

"I think that the prime minister has articulated the position of the government on this issue. He has made it clear that he will be fair or certainly the government will be fair in the negotiations. So it's a work in progress, and I would only add to that beyond what he has said, which is quite clear, that in this process of discussions and negotiations, that principle, once applied - and it will be based on the prime minister's directives - will mean a reasonable offer and we should allow that process to take its course. You can't negotiate via media. I think it really starts with a conversation and I think the prime minister has set the tone and that tone augurs well for all parties involved," Dr. Tufton insisted.

 

On Thursday, the National Partnership Council convened a special meeting to discuss the concerns raised by trade unions. The parties are to meet again next week.