Unions call for early negotiations over public sector pay 

Prospect and Unite want discussions with Public Services Commission

Two unions are calling for early negotiations to start on public sector pay awards ahead of 2024.

Prospect and Unite want representatives of the Public Services Commission to ensure that agreement is reached - in relation to improvements to pay, terms and conditions - for implementation on 1 April next year.

They say their members 'continue to raise concerns about below inflation pay increases year after year' and insist it 'is not acceptable for pay to be eroded year on year because of the effects of inflation'. 

The unions also cite staff shortages, low morale and 'a slow haemorrhage of staff leaving to seek better pay, and terms and conditions elsewhere' as all contributing to the problem.

It comes after yesterday’s announcement that a settlement has been reached between all the health service unions and Manx Care relating to the long running pay dispute. 

Unite's Regional Officer Debbie Halsall said: "We are fast approaching 2024 and it is imperative that negotiations commence now so that we are not in a position whereby our members are financially disadvantaged during the ongoing cost of living crisis and periods of continuing high inflation."

Negotiations Officer for Prospect Mick Hewer added: "As far as I am concerned we would expect an above inflation award for all areas in which we have members - anything less effectively results in a pay cut."

Both unions are encouraging Treasury to ensure that adequate funding is identified for inclusion in the 2024 Budget statement which ensures that pay increases and improvements to terms and conditions are adequately funded.

Manx Radio has asked to speak to Cabinet Office Minister Kate Lord-Brennan about the issue of public sector pay on a number of occasions but has been told she is unavailable.