Union criticises lack of urgency over public sector pay disputes

Prospect urges Treasury to 'wake up'

Prospect is urging government to 'wake up' and take action to avoid industrial action in the public sector.

The trade union is calling for pay increases, in line with inflation, for workers in a number of areas.

It says it's disappointed that progress has been, what it's described as, ‘extremely slow’ in reaching agreements on increased pay and better terms and conditions.

Prospect says pay negotiations have been ongoing since the end of 2021 and that, in some cases, it’s still waiting for formal offers from employers.

This has been branded 'completely unacceptable' at a time when, the union says, some members are 'struggling to make ends meet'.

"They simply drag their feet and continually say that matters are progressing and formal responses will be provided shortly or soon.

"Empty promises don’t pay for heating, food or fuel, all of which are increasing at alarming rates with no real prospect on the horizon of price decreases any time soon. 

"It simply isn’t acceptable any longer for our members to see their take home pay eroded by inflation and below inflation pay increases." - Mick Hewer

Joint health service unions – including Prospect - are currently balloting on a four per cent pay offer made by Manx Care. You can find out more HERE.

Mick Hewer is the negotiations officer for Prospect:

Manx Radio has invited the Isle of Man Government to respond to the union's comments.