JUTC warns of possible delay in service as strike action looms
The Jamaica Urban Transit Company Limited (JUTC) is advising the public that there may be a delay in service due to possible strike action by some JUTC employees who are represented by the University and Allied Workers Union (UAWU).
According to the JUTC, this is as a result of the rejection of a proposed 10.5 per cent in adjustments to premiums for health insurance coverage from Canopy Insurance Limited, scheduled to take effect on April 1, 2024.
It said the UAWU refused to accept the increase, resulting in a suspension of coverage as a minimum 70 per cent staff enrollment is required for participation.
“It is also important to note that the Union of Clerical Administrative and Supervisory Employees (UCASE) met with Canopy Insurance Limited and negotiated a reduction in the original premium of 10.5 per cent down to seven per cent or the original premium increase (10.5 per cent) offered with improved benefits, this was also communicated to the UAWU,” the JUTC said in a release Thursday.
It added that despite several meetings with union delegates aimed at resolving the matter, the delegates refused to agree to the proposed changes, and the issue remains unresolved.
“The JUTC is committed to the well-being of its employees and acknowledges the importance of access to health insurance coverage. We continue to work with the bargaining unit to resolve this unfortunate matter which has been referred to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) and our parent Ministry (Ministry of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport) has been advised,” the state-owned bus company said.