Jerome Reynolds, Gleaner Writer

The government and unions representing police personnel have signed a deal for the 2010-2012 contract period bringing an end to the protracted negotiations.

The agreement was signed on Tuesday and involved the Police Officers’ Association, Jamaica Police Federation, Island Special Constabulary Force Officers’ Association, Special Constabulary Force Association, and the United District Constables Association of Jamaica.

Under the deal, the groups have agreed to forego a wage increase for the period in exchange for welfare benefits.

One of the most notable components of the deal is that the government has agreed to institute a pension programme for District Constables.

Police personnel are also to benefit from an Emergency Medical Fund for diagnostic services, an ambulance for the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s convalescent home, and a workplace care centre for children of staff members.

The associations say they are not satisfied with all the aspects of the wage deal but they have decided to sign the agreement recognizing the challenges being faced by the government.

The parties will soon turn their attention on negotiations for the 2012-2014 contract period.

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