KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) – Public sector pharmacists are the latest group to sign the Heads of Agreement with the Government for the 2015/2017 contract period.

At a  ceremony held at the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service in Kingston today, the pharmacists signed the two-year wage agreement, under which they will receive a four per cent salary increase for year one and three per cent in year two.

Addressing the signing ceremony, Minister of State with Responsibility for the Public Service, Rudyard Spencer, said most of the more than 20 items claimed were agreed upon, including travelling.

“They use their own vehicles in dedication to the provision of care to the Jamaican populace. They also use their personal vehicles to transport supplies to provide the necessary service so critical for patients,” he said.

He hailed the “yeoman service” of the pharmacists and pledged that the Government will continue to improve benefits for them and other workers in the public sector.

Spencer lauded the cordial and respectful atmosphere in which the negotiations were conducted.

He also thanked the pharmacists for their patience and understanding especially in light of the ongoing International Monetary Fund (IMF) agreement.

Meanwhile, Negotiating Officer at the Bustamante Industrial Trade Union (BITU) representing Public Sector Pharmacists, Elvis Lennon, used the opportunity to commend the workers for their service to the public health sector.