Another hurdle for public sector wage deal

The Jamaican Government's plan to sign a public sector wage deal with the Jamaica Confederation of  Trade Union (JCTU) this week has hit a major hurdle.

Four of  the eleven unions under the JCTU have rejected the proposal for a J$4,000 across-the-board wage increase for government-paid workers. The proposal was made by the Central Executive of  the Confederation.

Chairman of  the JCTU's Public Sector Committee, Keith Comrie, says both sides could reach an agreement if the government increases its offer on some of  the allowances. He told RJR News that the draft proposal was circulated to all the unions on Friday for them to examine and respond.

He also said agreement cannot be reached with the Government this week, despite reports that the Ministry of  Finance wants to sign a new deal on Tuesday.