The Opposition is calling on Prime Minister Andrew Holness to intervene urgently in the ongoing sick-out by maintenance workers in the engineering department of the National Water Commission (NWC).

The workers have been off the job for the past few days, due to dissatisfaction with the outcomes of the recent public sector compensation review.

Water Minister Matthew Samuda noted that the industrial action was not sanctioned.

In a statement, Spokesperson on Water, Ian Hayles, said the affected workers are part of a department which is responsible for several critical functions, including the chlorination of water and the repair of water main breaks nationwide.

Mr. Hayles is raising an alarm about the potential risks to public health and water safety.

He said he acknowledges the recent comments by the Water Minister, but insists that the seriousness of the situation calls for a more direct and high-level response.

According to Mr. Hayles, the Prime Minister must step in and take this matter seriously.

He also raised concerns about the fairness of the compensation review process.

The Opposition Spokesman is calling for urgent dialogue between the Government and the affected workers.