THE NATIONAL Workers' Union (NWU) is hoping for a hefty 70 per cent salary increase over two years for service station attendants across the island.
The claim which has been served on the Jamaica Gasolene Retailers Association (JGRA) by the union was the main point of discussions at yesterday's Annual General Meeting of the JGRA at the Alhambra Inn in Kingston.
The proposal asked for a 40 per cent hike in the first year and 30 per cent in the second year, as early as August 31, 2002. In addition the NWU wants all financial benefits to be retroactive to September 1, 2002.
The claims, if agreed on, would also apply to cashiers and supervisors. Currently, attendants make up to $2,600 in basic pay.
Service station attendants had voiced a range of complaints at a NWU general meeting last year about, "inadequate uniforms, being affected by gas fumes, lack of pension schemes and health plans and having to wash pumps."
Some attendants also complained about not getting transportation home after work.
This year's claim includes proposals for five sets of uniform each year, and safety gear for all employees, with water boots for washers.
The union has asked too that proper pension and group health plans be put in place to accommodate regular employees.
JGRA officials contacted yesterday admitted that the issue was the most vexed one discussed at yesterday's meeting, but would not reveal what was the association's response.
Minister of Mining and Energy, Anthony Hylton, was the guest speaker at the meeting.
