KINGSTON, Jamaica – The management of the National Water Commission (NWC) on Tuesday advised that efforts are continuing to “amicably resolve” issues of disagreement between the NWC and trade unions representing more than 2,000 employees regarding the new Group Health Insurance Contract.

The dispute had resulted in strike action by some employees on Wednesday, September 30, 2015. A meeting was held that same day at the Ministry of Labour.

A release from the NWC Tuesday said concerns and recommendations from that meeting were noted for further discussions.

“There has been continued communication between the parties culminating in a further meeting being held on Saturday, October 3, between the NWC management and the leadership of the trade unions,” the release said. “Out of those discussions, it has also been agreed to continue the dialogue with a view to a satisfactory resolution.”

The NWC said that while the management and board are of the view that the renewed contract represents the best option available for both employees and the enterprise after a thorough and transparent procurement process in keeping with the Government of Jamaica Procurement and Contracting Guidelines, with benefits increasing by between 12 per cent and 25 per cent, all the concerns of the trade unions are being actively evaluated.

The NWC also said it hopes that the continued dialogue and consultations will result in an amicable agreement in the best interest of all stakeholders.