The request is contained in a letter she sent to each of the unions that wrote to her on July 7 making several demands of the government of Trinidad and Tobago and threatening to shut down the country in a general strike if they did not get what they want.
In addition the unions have said they don't want to meet with anyone but the prime minister.
Her correspondence was conciliatory but firm.
"I recognise your right to represent your workers as I ask you to recognise the right of our Government to represent the interest of all of the people of Trinidad and Tobago.
"Unfortunately, the demands contained in your correspondence were accompanied by threats of union actions which, if pursued, may have dire consequences to both our national security and economic stability," Persad-Bissessar wrote.
She called for "cordial negotiations" and "open-mindedness" to allow both sides to better understand the issues.
"As Prime Minister, I strive to make decisions that are always in the best interest of all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago. Therefore, we can agree on one thing, in your own words, that "no effort should be spared to have the country's productive forces collectively focus on moving the economy forward." In this context, as I have always indicated, I am prepared to meet with the Unions' leadership."
She added, "This meeting should not be interpreted as part of any negotiations since it would never be my intention to subvert the Collective Bargaining process.
She called for "cordial negotiations" and "open-mindedness" to allow both sides to better understand the issues.
"As Prime Minister, I strive to make decisions that are always in the best interest of all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago. Therefore, we can agree on one thing, in your own words, that "no effort should be spared to have the country's productive forces collectively focus on moving the economy forward." In this context, as I have always indicated, I am prepared to meet with the Unions' leadership."
She added, "This meeting should not be interpreted as part of any negotiations since it would never be my intention to subvert the Collective Bargaining process.
"The Government has demonstrated its willingness to be flexible and will maintain this stance but the leadership of the unions should equally acknowledge that as Prime Minister, I cannot agree to any pre-conditions for a meeting."
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