JTA expecting new wage offer from government at next meeting

The Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) says it is expecting an improved wage offer when the union meets with the Ministry of Finance next Wednesday to renew negotiations.

Last Saturday, the union voted to reject a seven per cent offer that was an improvement on the initial five per cent proposed by the Government.

JTA president, Doran Dixon, says the teachers are hopeful that the Government will propose a higher offer when they meet.

The seven per cent offer put forward by the Government would replace a five-year wage freeze and cover the period 2015-2017.

However, the JTA is seeking a 25 per cent wage increase over the two-year period.

Last week, Finance Minister, Dr Peter Phillips, in a national broadcast, said the Government cannot improve its seven percent offer.