Govt & BPA Reach ‘Agreement In Principle’
The Government said it has “reached agreement in principle with the Bermuda Police Association [BPA] that will essentially see the Police participate in the austerity measures programme for a 12-month period.”
A Government spokesperson said, “After many weeks of negotiations, the Government of Bermuda can confirm that it has reached agreement in principle with the Bermuda Police Association [BPA] that will essentially see the Police participate in the austerity measures programme for a 12-month period.
“As a further note, the parties have also reached an agreement in principle on the Conditions of Service Order, which will see the Police receive the cost of living increase of 2.5% for fiscal 2017/18 and 2.0% for 2018/19 which accords with the agreements reached with all other Public Officers.”
The Minister for the Cabinet Office Wayne Furbert said, “The successful negotiation of the new agreement is the latest step in an ongoing effort by the Bermuda Government to establish effective relationships with our Union partners. This outcome is reflective of the strong collaborative relationship that is evolving.
“It also highlights that these Officers, like public officers in other sectors, have a willingness and desire to support the community during these trying economic times. The Government is also particularly pleased as conclusion of these negotiations will see the first new Conditions of Service Order for the Police since 2002.
“The Government is grateful to the teams which were engaged in the deliberations over the several month period and looks forward to working with the other uniformed services unions.”
It will take longer than 12 months.