PSA threatens to shut down TT gov't, frustrate state's initiatives

File Photo: PSA President joins members in 'victory' march

The Public Services Association (PSA) is disappointed that the new government of Trinidad and Tobago has not yet started discussions with the PSA to settle outstanding labour issues and plans to take their concerns to the doorsteps of acting Prime Minister and former Trade Unionist, Errol Mc Leod.

And it has warned that there would be no "business at usual" in the public service on Monday.

The PSA was supporting of the People's Parliament and supported the opposition in the fight against the Property Tax and the Trinidad and Tobago revenue Agency (TTRA), which the Manning administrated tried to impose on the public service. 

The PSA's Christopher Joefield even accepted a position of temporary UNC Senator against the TTRA bill, which the Manning government withdrew.

PSA President Watson Duke told the Trinidad Express Sunday, "We going straight to the boss. We have a message to deliver even if he not there." Duke added that he is "no longer falling into bed with any politicians", stating that the People's Partnership has disappointed him.

Duke is ready to change his demand for base wages for public service employees from $7,700 a month to a flat $6,000 to get negotiations started. "I cannot go lower than $6,000, because to collect a $3,000 pension you have to be working for at least $6,000," he told the paper.

Duke said what is happening Monday is a preview of what is to come next month if the government doesn't move swiftly to deal with the matter. 

"By October, business might come to a complete stop...We will wage war on this issue. There are no friends on this issue. We might smile again once it is settled, but until then the battle gears not coming off."

Duke also warned that the PSA members have the ability "to frustrate the Government's initiatives" and advised the government to recognise and respect "the force of the union movement".