KINGSTON, Jamaica — The National Workers Union (NWU) is threatening strike action and the withdrawal of labour of their members at the Manchester Health Department, over the non-provision of uniform materials for required groups.

The NWU in a news release today advised that they have given the health department a 72-hour notice, commencing on Monday at 8:00 am, for the withdrawal of their members’ service.

NWU said that it is deeply concerned that despite the 2015-2017 Heads of Agreement clearly outlining that the Ministry of Health should make uniform material available, their members at the Manchester Health Department are yet to receive payment in lieu of material for the 2015-2016 period; and the material for the 2016-2017 period, as was agreed in the Heads of Agreement (2015-2017).

The union said this is after several enquiries and the Ministry of Finance having approved the rates and given instructions for the payment from as far back as April 5, 2016.

“If the matters outlined are not addressed within the specified notice period, there will be a withdrawal of labour, including but not limited to strike action,” said NWU.