Public-sector workers to get training in collective bargaining

THE HUGH Lawson Trade Union Education Institute at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, will be providing training in industrial relations for public-sector stakeholders to enhance the process of collective bargaining.

This was announced yesterday by Minister with responsibility for the Public Service, Senator Arthur Williams.

Williams, speaking in the Senate, outlined the terms of the Government's retroactive salary deal with public-sector workers, which was signed two weeks ago, after drawn-out and contentious negotiations.

The cost to the Government will be $31.8 billion, with the first payment to be made in September 2011.

Williams, who was recently promoted minister of the public service, said the agreement between both parties must be understood in the context of the current 27-month standby agreement with the International Monetary Fund.

He pointed out that it was the intention of the Government to negotiate an extension to the agreement for a further 24 months, while maintaining fiscal prudence and developing a strong and credible fiscal-adjustment programme.

Williams said the Hugh Shearer institute would provide adequate training and education in industrial relations, and would also partner with the Jamaica Productivity Centre to enhance awareness that productivity was the main factor underpinning growth. He said it was important for the country to find ways to promote greater productivity among public-sector workers.

Meanwhile, the Senate also passed a resolution, moved by Opposition Senator Norman Grant, calling for amendments to the Standing Orders to allow technology usage, specifically the use of laptops to enhance presentations by members, during its sittings.