Castries, St Lucia.
The negotiations between the Government of St Lucia and the Public Sector Unions have reached an impasse and should be sent to arbitration, says Prime Minister Dr Kenny Anthony.
In an address to the nation Anthony said the Government is unable to improve on the 4 percent offered to the Trade Union Federation which is seeking an increase of 6 or 9 percent with conditions.
As a result Anthony said the Government's option is either wage restrain or retrenchment.
"THe Government of St Lucia cannot and will not go further than the 4 percent increase in wages it has offered, coupled with the agreed allowances. For the Government the option is clear: It is either wage restrain or retrenchment. On the other hand, the members of Trade Union Federation believe that the Government can meet their demands without causing undue harm to the people of St Lucia. I do not think so", Anthony said.
