Normalcy restored at JUTC as union negotiations continue
Published:Friday | April 5, 2024 | 9:29 AM
Transport Minister Daryl Vaz says operations are back to normal at the Jamaica Urban Transit Company Limited (JUTC) while negotiations between the company's management and the union representing workers continue "in good faith".
Users of the JUTC's service were advised on Thursday to expect possible delays in service as some employees represented by the University and Allied Workers Union (UAWU) were restive and could embark on strike action.
The Ministry of Transport indicated that the stance of the workers was 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.
According to the ministry, the UAWU has refused to accept the increase, resulting in a suspension of coverage as a minimum 70 per cent staff enrolment is required for participation.
The transport ministry is asserting that despite several meetings with union delegates aimed at resolving the matter, the delegates refused to agree to proposed changes.
The issue was referred to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security for its intervention.
Follow The Gleaner on X and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.