Finance Minister, Dr. Nigel Clarke has sought to assure that his Ministry is working with the Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions (JCTU) to complete, satisfactorily, discussions regarding the terms and conditions of service for members.

The assurance follows a call by the Jamaica Civil Service Association (JCSA) for the Ministry to refrain from delaying the implementation of claims outlined in their wage agreement.

The JCSA is among 12 unions under the JCTU.

This morning, JCSA President Techa Clarke Griffiths told IRIE FM news that members are restive and disappointed in what she described as the Ministry’s lack of action regarding line items agreed upon.

In response, Dr. Clarke explained that in observing well-established rules of engagement in the collective bargaining process, the Ministry cannot move forward on matters not agreed upon by all members of the JCTU.

He explained further that until the JCTU indicates that all its members are on board, dialogue between the umbrella group and the Ministry will continue.

Acknowledging that the situation can be frustrating, Dr. Clarke stressed that necessary updates will be provided in due course.