The Jamaica Teachers' Association (JTA) and the Police Federation yesterday signed new wage and fringe benefits agreements with the Government after months of tedious and sometimes stormy negotiations.

Hopeton Henry, president of the JTA, said the new agreement is a far cry from what it wanted for the island's more than 22,000 teachers.

"The offer in no way indicates that the teachers are satisfied with the treatment of their claims. The association reiterates that if the Jamaican education system is to achieve world-class standard, it requires a teaching force that is well compensated and highly trained," Mr. Henry said at the signing ceremony, held at the Ministry of Finance, Heroes Circle, head offices.

The new agreement will see principals getting a 14 per cent increase in salary in year one and eight per cent in year two.

Trained and pre-trained graduates will receive 16 per cent in year one and eight per cent in year two. Pre-trained teachers will receive between 21 and 22 per cent in year one and five per cent in year two.

Some of the benefits that the island's teachers will receive include:

Travelling allowance for teachers with post of special responsibility.

A book, resource and technology allowance valued at $21,000 in year one and $22,000 in year two.

Reduction in the ratio of guidance counsellors from 1:800 to 1:650.

Incentives for primary school principals to pursue a doctor of philosophy degree.

Classroom teachers to get additional increments in salary for earning graduate degrees.

Reclassification of teachers' salaries to 80 per cent to market, to take effect April 2007.

The new two-year wage agreement with the police will see them receiving a 19 per cent hike in year one and 6.5 per cent in the second year.

Conceding that it was a difficult negotiation, Finance and Planning Minister Dr. Omar Davies said he was relieved that a deal was reached, noting that only one outstanding item remained.

This involves a proposed $40 million financing for housing through the National Housing Trust.

The salary increase is scheduled for implementation in November while retroactive money from April this year will be paid in December.

Chairman of the Police Federation, Corporal Raymond Wilson, said he was satisfied that an agreement had been finally brokered, stating that he would be continuing discussions with the Government on conditions of service, including the work environment.

'The offer in no way indicates that the teachers are satisfied with the treatment of their claims'