The Bustamante Industrial Trade Union (BITU), which represents the management group at the Jamaica Public Service (JPS), has expressed deep concern about the company’s proposal to defer the third-year wage increase.

The increase was contractually due to take effect on December 1, under the existing collective labour agreement.

The BITU said at a meeting held on November 17, JPS formally requested a deferral of the negotiated wage increase, citing operational and financial disruptions arising from hurricane Melissa.

These include substantial unplanned recovery expenses which exceeded the company’s normal operating budget.

According to the union, JPS further indicated that the government’s July 2025 notice of intention to acquire has constrained its ability to access the debt market, thereby compounding its financial challenges.

President General of the BITU, Kavan Gayle said following this request, the BITU engaged in consultations with its affected members.

The Union says as a result of the JPS’ position, members of the management group are increasingly disgruntled and disillusioned, feeling that their sacrifices, loyalty, and contributions are not being met with good faith or respect for contractual obligations.

A follow-up meeting is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. today, and the BITU says it will continue its strong advocacy on behalf of its members.

In the meantime, the BITU is calling on JPS to reconsider its position, demonstrate flexibility, and uphold the spirit and letter of the collective agreement in the interest of fairness, industrial harmony, and mutual respect.