CASTRIES, St.Lucia -Prime Minister Kenny Anthony says the negotiations between Government and Public Sector Unions have reached an impasse and has recommended that the issue be sent to arbitration.
In an address to the nation today Anthony said the government is unable to improve on the four per cent offered to the Trade Union Federation which is seeking an increase of six or nine and a half per cent with conditions. As a result the Prime Minister said the government’s option is either wage restraint or retrenchment.
“The Government of Saint Lucia cannot and will not go further than the four per cent increase in wages it has offered, coupled with the agreed allowances. For the Government the option is clear: its either wage restraint or retrenchment. On the other hand, the members of the Trade Union Federation believe that the Government can meet their demands without causing undue harm to the people of Saint Lucia. I do not think so.”
The Prime Minister argued that even with the EC$42.0 million (EC$=37UScents) which will have to be borrowed to meet the four per cent payments, there will be sacrifices whether by way of compulsory reduction of expenditure and or the gradual reduction of subsidies extended to the population at large.
“It seems to me that the parties have arrived at an impasse. In these circumstances, I wish to urge that the matter be resolved peacefully, by arbitration. I propose that the parties appoint a three member arbitration panel, made up of one arbitrator appointed by the Trade Union Federation, a second by the Government, and a third, a chairperson, appointed jointly by the agreement of the parties,” he announced.
He said once the panel is constituted, hearings could be held in full glare of the public. “The Government agrees, without reservation or condition, that it would be bound by the decision of the panel. I urge our unions to consider and accept this proposal to bring closure to this unhappy situation.” (CMC)
