JPS reassures customers

The Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) is seeking to assure its customers that measures have been put in place to prevent a possible disruption in service.



Since late last night some critical workers have been calling in sick while some have just not turned up for work.



Head of Corporate Communications at the JPS, Winsome Callum, said the main areas affected are the power stations at Hunts Bay in St. Andrew, Rockfort in Kingston and Bogue in St. James.



She said those plants are currently being operated by other workers.



Ms. Callum said the action by the workers has not yet begun to affect the company’s customers.



Ms. Callum is uncertain as to when the dispute will be settled.



The workers are upset that overtime and redundancy monies, going as far back as 2001 have not yet been paid.



The JPS is maintaining that the money has been paid.



Ms. Callum said the Labour Minister Pearnel Charles had ordered that the matter be settled independently.



However, she said the unions representing the workers are against the decision.



Labour Minister Pearnel Charles said officials from his ministry are now meeting with representatives from the JPS.



He said the Ministry has received a report from the company and will be reviewing it before a decision is made as to the way forward.



Mr Charles had earlier said the matter could be referred to the industrial dispute tribunal if it is not settled between the unions and company’s management.