Head to arbitration

CASTRIES, St.Lucia, CMC-Prime Minister Kenny Anthony says the negotiations between Government and Public Sector Unions have reached an impasse and has recommended that the issue be sent to arbitration.
In an address to the nation on Wednesday Anthony said the government is unable to improve on the 4% offered to the Trade Union Federation which is seeking an increase of 6 or 9.5% with conditions. As a result Dr. Anthony said the government’s option is either wage restraint or retrenchment.
“The Government of Saint Lucia cannot and will not go further than the 4% increase in wages it has offered, coupled with the agreed allowances. For the Government the option is clear: its either wage restraint or retrenchment. On the other hand, the members of the Trade Union Federation believe that the Government can meet their demands without causing undue harm to the people of Saint Lucia. I do not think so," he said.