NewzKINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions (JCTU) is calling for an urgent ruling in the outstanding overtime dispute involving the Jamaica Medical Doctors’ Association (JMDA), saying the nearly six-month wait since the case concluded is too long. According to the JCTU, the dispute was referred to the Industrial Disputes Tribunal (IDT) in January 2025 and concluded on April 1, 2026. The JMDA has given the Tribunal until October 2, 2026 to deliver its decision.
The JCTU said Section 12(1) of the Labour Relations and Industrial Disputes Act requires the Tribunal to make an award within 21 days after a dispute is referred to it, or “as soon as may be practicable” where that timeframe is impracticable. While acknowledging that complex cases may require additional time, the JCTU said the statutory flexibility should not result in prolonged uncertainty for workers. “An almost six-month wait after the conclusion of a case is far too long, particularly where the dispute concerns essential services, payment for work performed and the livelihood of workers,” the organisation said.
The JCTU also warned that prolonged uncertainty over remuneration can create financial pressure, frustration and declining morale, potentially affecting productivity. It called on the Ministry of Labour and Social Security to address any administrative or resource constraints contributing to delays, while respecting the independence of the Tribunal. “Their claim deserves urgent determination, and their prolonged wait must be brought to an end,” the JCTU said.
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