Treat public-sector workers better

Opposition Leader Portia Simpson Miller yesterday resumed where the spokesman on the public service, Natalie Neita-Headley, left off, urging the Government to treat public-sector workers with greater sensitivity.

Simpson Miller, speaking in the 2011-2012 Budget Debate, said it is impossible for workers in the sector to continue to give of their best if the issue of outstanding salaries is not settled.

" … Does the Government really expect public-sector employees to perform at their best when for three years the basic issue of compensation has been a source of ongoing contention and conflict?"

"Does the Government really expect civil servants to give of their best when job uncertainty has persisted for two years?" the opposition leader asked.

Public-sector workers, including teachers, nurses and members of the security forces, have outstanding salary issues with the Government.

"For three years, this Government has chosen not to honour their solemn agreement to grant public-sector workers their seven per cent increase, effective 2009. This is not the first time that a government has had difficulty in finding money to pay civil servants," she said.

Simpson Miller said when the People's National Party formed the Government, it too faced difficulties in paying public-sector workers.

The opposition leader said public-sector workers should not be expected to continue making sacrifices while others in the society were given favours "with waivers and tax breaks".

"If sacrifices must be made, those who can afford it most must make the greater sacrifice," she said.