Duke under fire for accepting five percent offer

Port of Spain: Public Servants Association’s (P.S.A.) President, Watson Duke continues to be criticised for his acceptance of the Government’s five per cent salary increase offer.  

A member of his own organisation Walton Nizam last evening staged a one man protest outside the P.S.A. headquarters.  He said that unless Mr Duke apologises to the members of the P.S.A. he should step down.  He said the lack of experience, people and negotiating skills by both the president and his team are to blame for the present situation. 

Opposition Leader Dr. Keith Rowley also commented on the situation saying that he would like to know more about it particularly relating to Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar’s involvement.  He asked that the country know exactly what was agreed to and how much it will cost.  In her defence however, Ms. Persad Bissessar said that Duke acted in the best interest of his members saying that while a decent salary is essential, a home and medical benefits are just as important as well.