Public sector unions eager to resume wage talks

Some of the island’s major trade unions representing public sector workers say they are eagerly awaiting follow up talks with the government on wage negotiations.

The Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions (JCTU), The Jamaica Teacher’s Association (JTA) and the Police Federation say they submitted counter proposals to the government some time ago, but they are yet to get a response.

The confederation’s Vice-President, Helene Davis Whyte, says the union is hopeful of getting some news from the government this week.

The head of the JTA, Doran Dixon, says teachers remain unhappy that there is still no settlement.

Dixon says his membership wants a better offer than the seven per cent increase proposed by the government.

Meanwhile, federation chairman, Sergeant Raymond Wilson, says the rank and file members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force remain cautiously optimistic as the union awaits a date to continue wage negotiations.