Discussions between the island’s junior doctors and government on overtime wages and retroactive payments, are to continue in the new year.

The Jamaica Medical Doctors’ Association (JMDA) has been meeting with representatives from the ministries of health, labour and finance since last Monday when the doctors staged an island-wide sick out.

JMDA President Dr. Rene Badroe says a meeting was held yesterday, and discussions will continue into the new year. She says the next meeting is scheduled for January 8.

In the meantime, the Ministry of Labour says it is grateful to the parties for their open and rigorous dialogue.

The Labour Ministry adds that it is appreciative of the responsible and professional manner of the conciliatory discussions displayed by all the parties’ to-date.

The Ministry is hopeful that the parties will arrive at an amicable settlement.