Outstanding salary increments for Health Ministry staff should be paid this month.

The assurance was reportedly given by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, to the Jamaica Civil Service association (JCSA).

The update follows a warning from the union about possible disruption to the health sector, if the monies are not paid by month end.

The workers are reportedly restive due to delays with payments from the Health Ministry, after the Finance Ministry indicated that the funds had been sent over.

In a statement Thursday evening, JCSA president ​ Techa Clarke-Griffiths, said the union welcomes the firm commitment to disburse the increment payments, as promised.

Clarke Griffiths noted that the health ministry also confirmed that outstanding arrears for uniform and tailoring allowances were only received yesterday.

Due to the payroll having already been processed, payment will not be possible until next month.

Clarke Griffiths said the union remains deeply concerned about the delay in settling all outstanding obligations to staff.

She said the arrears have been long overdue and the non-payments continue to place unnecessary financial strain on dedicated public servants.

She said the association has reiterated its position that all payments of increments, uniform, taxi and tailoring arrears must be resolved without further delay.

The union expects that the ministry will honour its new commitment to settle the arrears next month.

Clarke-Griffiths said the union will remain vigilant in monitoring the situation.

She commended members for their patience and professionalism during the period of uncertainty, adding that the JCSA will continue to stand firmly in defense of the rights and entitlements of all public sector workers.

Clarke-Griffiths added that should any further delay occur, the JCSA reserves the right to take the necessary steps to protect members’ interests.