The Private Sector Organisation (PSOJ) is calling for “productive and expedient negotiations” with the rank-and-file members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) regarding the outstanding wage payments dating as far back as 2008.

The PSOJ, in a statement on Monday (January 24), said its plea comes while acknowledging that the Government of Jamaica has to exercise fiscal responsibility in its affairs.

The powerful private-sector group further argued that, despite this commitment, the Jamaican economy has demonstrated some resilience and recovery in particular areas since the emergence of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

An accord where both parties can feel adequately satisfied on terms must be reached, given the ongoing efforts to contain the runaway murder rate as well as providing the bulk of the Government’s manpower to enforce the Disaster Risk Management Act (DRMA).

“We note recent reports in the media where the chairman of the Jamaica Police Federation (JPF), has expressed dissatisfaction with the current situation. It is imperative to ensure that the nation’s police officers remain motivated, and a high level of morale is achieved and maintained, as these officers also form part of our country’s frontline response team in the fight against crime, violence and the COVID-19 pandemic. They work daily to keep us safe,” the organisation stated.

“While the trial between the JPF and GOJ is set for the Supreme Court on April 4 and 5, 2022, we strongly believe that more can be done to show a greater level of appreciation to the members of the JCF to keep them engaged, feeling valued and fairly compensated,” the PSOJ added.

The PSOJ encouraged both the Government and disgruntled cops to lessen the existing tension, embark on more conversational exploration with out-of-court negotiations and for a reasonable settlement offer to be agreed upon.

“One of the strategic mandates of the PSOJ for 2022 is social cohesion and this commitment will require social intervention programs and the strong support from the security forces. It is therefore in all our interests to have the JCF members feeling valued, remaining patriotic and performing at an optimal level to be a force for good,” the PSOJ remarked.