Davies and Phillips THE GOVERNMENT yesterday signed a new two-year $1.8 billion wage agreement covering rank and file policemen with the executive of the Police Federation.
The Federation, although agreeing to the new contract, still had some concerns and said that it would continue further negotiations to settle benefits for marine divers, health insurance for members as well as to address the question of long hours worked without compensation.
Under the new contract, the salaries of the policemen will be increased by three per cent this year and a further three per cent, effective from April, 2002. It is understood that a number of allowances that they are entitled to will be given tax-free.
Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance, Michael Peart, said the new rate will become effective December 2002 and retroactive payments commence in April 2003.
The contract was signed by Finance Minister, Omar Davies, National Security Minister Peter Phillips, and his Permanent Secretary, Gil Scott, Mr. Peart and the chairman of the Police Federation, Sergeant Steve Brown.
Dr. Davies said that yesterday's signing was an investment in the country's security. Minister Phillips praised the lawmen for the professional manner in which they handled the negotiations.
Sergeant Brown said the Police Federation team had scored heavily in terms of benefits.
"Policemen now have the priority of owning homes in any National Housing Trust (NHT) Scheme," he pointed out.
He explained that it is highly likely that the Federation's members will accept the housing proposals offered by Prime Minister P.J. Patterson last week.
Mr. Brown further said the Government has also decided to construct a convalescence home for police personnel injured in the line of duty.
Scholarships will also be offered to their children at the secondary and tertiary levels.
POLICE SALARY DEAL
$1.8 billion agreement over two years.
Salaries will be increased by 3 per cent this year and a further 3 per cent, effective from April, 2002.
Tax-free allowances.
