A meeting this morning involving government officials, trade unions and other interested parties, about the vexed public sector wage issue was reportedly fruitful.

The meeting comes in the wake of public sector groups, including teachers, objecting to the government’s zero per cent wage offer and a demand for an improved offer, failing which, the workers could take industrial action.

The National Partnership Council (NPC) convened a special meeting, bringing together representatives of the government, unions, public sector, the private sector, civil society and the Fiscal Advisory Committee.

The meeting, chaired by civil society leader, Professor Alvin Wint focused on the ongoing public sector wage negotiations, within the broader context, of Jamaica’s fiscal position.

A statement from the Office of the Prime Minister this afternoon said the discussions were fruitful and the meeting concluded with firm commitments to move forward in the best interest of all Jamaicans.

Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Fayval Williams assured that the government is committed to engaging in good faith, as the parties work through these negotiations.

In the meantime, President of the Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions, St. Patrice Ennis said the (JCTU) remains committed to dialogue that is respectful, transparent and grounded in the realities of members’ needs and the country’s fiscal circumstances.

He noted that the parties will continue to negotiate in good faith with the shared goal of achieving fair outcomes for workers.

The OPM said a smaller group of stakeholders, will convene a meeting with the unions and government officials in the coming week to continue the dialogue.