Public servants in the Dominican Republic are pushing for a 15% salary increase.

The Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU) is seeking a 15 per cent salary increase for its members over a three-year period. The general secretary of the DPSU, Thomas Letang, outlined the proposed salary increases at a meeting, with a four per cent increase for the 2021-22 financial year, a five per cent increase for 2022-23, and a six per cent increase for 2023-24. Letang emphasized that a re-classification exercise by the government is not a salary increase, and the union is pushing for fair and reasonable wage adjustments for its members.

Letang urged the union’s membership to stand in solidarity with workers at state-owned entities, such as the Dominica Air and Seaport Authority (DASPA) and Discover Dominica, who have not received salary increases for decades. He highlighted the importance of supporting these workers and ensuring that their wage adjustments take into consideration the rate of inflation. Letang stressed the need for unity among union members in advocating for fair treatment and improved working conditions.

Cyprian Montrope, president of the Civil Service Association in St Lucia, also addressed the meeting and encouraged members to support the DPSU in its efforts to secure increased salaries for its members. Montrope emphasized the importance of member participation and engagement in advocating for better wages and working conditions. He urged members to actively participate in union activities, engage with fellow colleagues, and show solidarity with workers in their quest for fair compensation.

The DPSU’s proposal for a 15 per cent salary increase over a three-year period reflects the union’s commitment to advocating for fair and just compensation for its members. Letang emphasized the importance of distinguishing between re-classification exercises and actual salary increases, highlighting the need for wage adjustments that address the impact of inflation on public officers’ purchasing power. The union is calling on members to stand together in solidarity and support each other in their quest for equitable treatment in the workplace.

Overall, the DPSU’s push for increased salaries for its members is part of a broader effort to ensure that public officers are fairly compensated for their work. By seeking a gradual increase over a three-year period, the union aims to address the impact of inflation and provide its members with a wage that reflects the cost of living. Through solidarity and support from members and other trade unionists like Montrope, the DPSU hopes to achieve its goal of securing improved salaries and working conditions for public officers in Dominica.