The Sanitation Service Authority today issued a press release in response to recent statements by a representative of the National Union of Public workers (NUPW).
A story published in the SUNDAY SUN of December 13 said the NUPW has some issues it wants aired in a meeting with the SSA this week.
It was noted the issues related to a long-promised medical health scheme, salary increases, a lack of upward movement, and health and occupational safety.
NUPW assistant general secretary Wayne Walrond highlighted the issues in a recent media statement, which said, in part: “The National Union of Public Workers has been endeavouring for quite some time to have a number of matters resolved on behalf of workers of the Sanitation Services Authority.
“The implementation of a proposed medical insurance scheme is one of the major issues that SSA workers need addressed. While management has approved the medical plan in principle, there is no further evidence to show how soon the plan will be implemented.”
Following is the SSA’s statement today.
“We note the press statement issued by the National Union of Public Workers today [December 14, 2020] in addition to recent comments by the NUPW officials in the national press.
“It is unfortunate that the statement makes no mention of recent engagement between the management and board of the SSA and the SSA workers. This would have included a meeting of staff with the newly appointed chairman – Mr Ramon Alleyne on 23 November 2020 wherein staff was asked to indicate any outstanding issues so that the new board of management could implement and inform its upcoming plans.
“The chairman gave them confirmation as to the Board’s sanctioning the group medical plan and the refurbishment of recreational facilities – a refurbishment that is presently ongoing. Changes pursuant to that meeting were also implemented in respect of Covid-19 arrangements and protocols. In these circumstances it is erroneous to suggest that SSA’s management has not engaged the SSA workers on their issues.
“As it relates to increased wages the NUPW is well aware that the issue of wages for workers is directly related to negotiations between NUPW and central government in such circumstances. Memoranda issued by the SSA will be of little value and would be usurping the established protocols between the NUPW and Government of Barbados.
We have today requested a meeting with the committee of management which is inclusive of NUPW representatives and we look forward to the continued dialogue. (PR)
