JPS says contingency plan in place if workers go on strike

The Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) says a contingency plan is in place to minimise any potential impact on service delivery should employees represented by the National Workers Union (NWU) go on strike.

The (NWU) had served a 72-hour strike notice on JPS following a stalemate on employment issues.

In a media release this morning, JPS indicated that a meeting is to be held at the Ministry of Labour on Monday, May 6, to address the issues raised by the union.

“This meeting is being held at JPS' request, as the company seeks to have the points of disagreement between itself and the union resolved swiftly and amicably.”

The company says it is committed to continuing the process of converting contract employees to permanent status, in keeping with its agreement with the union.

JPS says the conversions are being done over a three-year period, starting in 2023, and are on track for completion by 2025, as agreed.

“JPS is assuring customers that it has a contingency plan in place to minimise any potential impact on service delivery, should employees represented by the NWU proceed with strike action.

“The company is anticipating that the temporary breakdown in the conversation with the NWU will be resolved quickly and that the outcome will be satisfactory for all concerned.”

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