The National Union of Government and Federated Workers (NUGFW) has formally initiated steps to secure a substantial wage adjustment for Trinidad and Tobago’s daily-paid public sector employees. Union leadership is pushing for immediate negotiations with government officials to achieve a ten per cent salary increase for this vulnerable workforce segment.
NUGFW President-General Christopher Streete announced the union’s strategy through a social media address on December 13, revealing that formal correspondence had been dispatched to Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo. The communication specifically requests an early January meeting with Chief Personnel Officer Lt Cmdr Dr Daryl Dindial, who operates under the Finance Minister’s directives.
Mr. Streete expressed measured optimism regarding the proposed dialogue, emphasizing the union’s commitment to rapid resolution. “We are pursuing an early settlement,” he stated, “and upon successful negotiation, our members will become entitled to retroactive compensation.”
The NUGFW represents daily-wage employees across multiple critical public institutions, including the Tobago House of Assembly, regional health authorities, and twelve of fourteen municipal corporations throughout Trinidad (excluding only San Fernando and Port of Spain city corporations). Streete highlighted that these workers rank among the nation’s lowest-paid laborers and have compelling economic justification for enhanced compensation.
The union leader simultaneously issued a caution against misinformation circulating among workers, noting, “Certain disruptive elements are attempting to mislead membership regarding negotiation proceedings. Our exclusive focus remains on delivering concrete results.”
Streete offered pragmatic financial advice to members, reminding them that “monetary compensation carries no expiration date” and urging prudent management of anticipated back payments. The union’s current position follows their previous rejection of a four per cent increase proposed under the former administration, a decision Streete believes will yield superior outcomes for workers.
This development occurs against the backdrop of recent successful negotiations between the Public Services Association and government representatives, which resulted in a ten per cent wage increase covering 2014-2019 with implementation beginning January 2026 and partial retroactive payments expected before Christmas.