PSA President Criticizes Delays in Public Sector Arrears Settlement

The President of the Public Services Association (PSA), Felicia Thomas, has expressed renewed concerns regarding the prolonged delay in finalizing the payment of negotiated arrears for thousands of public sector employees. In a recent update shared on her Facebook page, Thomas highlighted the ongoing challenges in concluding these negotiations.

Thomas revealed that the PSA had formally reached out to the Chief Personnel Officer (CPO) to request a meeting aimed at advancing discussions. However, the CPO’s office has indicated that it is not yet prepared to meet, as it continues to consider the union’s counter proposal. This development comes nearly two months after the proposal was submitted and eight months following the signing of the settlement agreement.

Describing the situation as unprecedented, Thomas noted that this is the first instance in the union’s history where a negotiated settlement has remained unresolved for such an extended period after an agreement was reached. The delay has left many public sector employees in a state of uncertainty.

The PSA’s update was specifically directed at members of the Civil Service, Statutory Authorities governed by the Statutory Authorities Act, and the Tobago House of Assembly. Despite the setbacks, the PSA remains committed to securing a final resolution and continues to urge the Government to expedite the negotiations and settle the outstanding arrears owed to public servants.