A significant dispute has emerged between Trinidad and Tobago’s Public Services Association (PSA) and the Chief Personnel Officer (CPO) regarding the payment structure of a $3.8 billion backpay settlement for public service workers.
PSA President Felisha Thomas has taken an unequivocal stance against the government’s proposal to distribute the substantial backpay amount through a combination of cash and non-cash benefits. Thomas maintains that her mandate from union members requires full cash payment without alternative compensation mechanisms.
The conflict intensified following December 2 statements from CPO Daryl Dindial, who outlined the government’s position that the massive payout needed careful financial management. Dindial explained that while a $500 million ‘advance on arrears’ would be distributed before December 23, the complete $3.8 billion settlement remains subject to ongoing negotiations regarding disbursement methods and timing.
Dindial emphasized fiscal responsibility, stating: “We need to ensure the public doesn’t perceive government borrowing $3.8 billion as reckless. The government operates responsibly and has provided the CPO with broad negotiation guidelines.” He further noted that Finance Minister allocations hadn’t specifically provided for these arrears, requiring the ministry to identify appropriate funding sources.
Thomas vehemently rejected these explanations, citing contradictory statements from Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo, who told reporters on November 26 that the government indeed possessed sufficient funds for the payment. This contradiction prompted Thomas to question: “Is the CPO lying, or is he calling the finance minister a liar?”
Despite the payment method disagreement, both parties confirmed that negotiations continue productively. The PSA and CPO have already reached agreement on multiple components including a ten percent wage increase for 2014-2019 periods, cost of living adjustments, new salary structures effective January 2014, and various allowance enhancements covering meals, housing, transportation, and vehicle provisions.
Thomas affirmed that negotiation processes remain uninterrupted, noting: “I see nothing affecting negotiations. Both parties have their positions and we engage in discussion.” Further negotiations regarding the complete arrears payment are scheduled to resume in January.