Police federation criticises Finance Ministry over wage negotiation delays

The Jamaica Police Federation says its members are becoming increasingly restive over the Government’s delay in starting wage negotiations with the union, which represents rank-and-file officers of the Jamaica Constabulary Force.

The federation argues that the inordinate delay in commencing salary and benefit negotiations for the 2025–2027 contract period is uncharacteristic of the Ministry of Finance in recent times.

It says two letters requesting an urgent meeting were sent to the Minister of Finance, Fayval Williams. A delayed response stated that the Minister was travelling overseas but offered no details regarding a possible meeting date.

According to federation chairman Sergeant Arleen McBean, the union was promised an early meeting on May 6, 2025, in relation to Phase Two of the Compensation Review and the salary and benefits proposal for the 2025–2027 contract period.

She says this promise has not been fulfilled.

McBean states that the lack of action has eroded confidence and goodwill regarding transparent industrial relations practices.

"While the country is touting a significant reduction in major crimes, the rank-and-file members are treated with disdain by the Finance Ministry — a slap in the face of the hardworking men and women," charged McBean.

She added that her members will not remain silent, as their livelihoods are at stake.

The federation head is calling for a speedy resolution.

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