KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Ministry of Finance and the Public Service and the Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions (JCTU) have concluded negotiations on items carried over from the implementation of the new compensation structure for the public service with the signing of a Heads of Agreement on Thursday.

The agreement, which was signed by Minister Dr Nigel Clarke bringing an end to this round of negotiations, marks a significant milestone for public sector workers.

In a statement on Friday, the ministry said the agreement complements the compensation restructuring agreement signed two years ago and implemented over the period 2022/23 – 2024/25, and restructures conditions of service including compensation for extra hours worked, among other conditions of service.

Dr Clarke thanked JCTU President St Patrice Ennis, the vice presidents and board members for their determined leadership as well as their collaborative, solution-oriented approach. He also thanked his State Minister Zavia Mayne, Financial Secretary Darlene Morrison, Deputy Financial Secretary Wayne Jones, Maria Thompson Walters of the ministry’s Transformation Unit and other team members for their hard work, diligence, analysis and professionalism during the process.

“Though these negotiations have required many rounds of discussions which have taken many months, and have been challenging and difficult at times, they have always been conducted professionally and respectfully. It took tremendous determination on the part of both parties and a solution-oriented atmosphere where concerns of both parties could be aired and addressed,” Dr Clarke said.

“This process has again shown our capacity as Jamaicans to continually improve our country through social dialogue, a capacity that is institutionalised in our structures and systems that will serve Jamaica for decades to come,” he continued.

The JCTU also extended thanks to several individuals who contributed to the process.

“We wish to extend our deepest gratitude to the Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Dr the Honourable Nigel Clarke for his commitment, determination, and exemplary leadership throughout the negotiations. His unwavering dedication to closing this chapter of his tenure with the ministry has been instrumental in reaching this final agreement. Special thanks are also due to the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Wayne Jones, whose involvement, determination, commitment and resilience played a critical role in ensuring a successful conclusion to this aspect of the negotiations,” the JCTU said.

“The staff of the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service also deserve commendation for their hard work and commitment during these extended negotiations. It took tremendous resolve, compromise, and teamwork to bring us to this point. While the journey was difficult, the JCTU believes that the outcome is in the best interest of the country and the public sector workforce,” it added.