Williams sets August 12 meeting with Police Federation amid rising tensions over wage talks

Finance Minister Fayval Williams has proposed a meeting on August 12 with the leadership of the Jamaica Police Federation, in a bid to address mounting tensions over delays in starting wage negotiations for rank-and-file members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

In a letter posted to her social media accounts on Friday, Williams responded to federation chairman Sergeant Arleen McBean’s complaints this week that the Government had failed to deliver on a May 6 promise to begin discussions on phase two of the compensation review and the salary and benefits proposal for the 2025–2027 contract period.

The August 12 meeting is proposed for 10 a.m. at the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service in downtown Kingston.

Williams noted that the finance ministry had previously advised the federation of her unavailability in early July due to overseas travel on government business, but assured that a meeting date would be arranged “as soon as possible.”

Williams pointed out that the June 26 request from the federation came after a clarification meeting with its leadership on May 6, where the group’s 50-point claim was discussed. Separate sessions were also held with district constables and senior police officers.

The minister further disclosed that the Government has so far received 19 claims from various bargaining units, with clarification meetings already held with 17 since the current round of negotiations began.

Williams' commitment to meet comes as McBean warns that officers are becoming increasingly restive over what she calls an “inordinate delay” in commencing talks, a delay she says is uncharacteristic of the ministry in recent years.

McBean argued 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," she said. The union leader said her members will not remain silent, as their livelihoods are at stake.

Williams said the government respects the work of the JCF members.

"The work of the JCF is critical to ensuring that safety and security take root in Jamaica… there should be no doubt that there is the utmost respect for the women and men who work hard every day and night to ensure that Jamaica remains a safe place for all,” Williams wrote.

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