New pay offer to be put to Manx government workers

An alternative pay offer is set to be put to Isle of Man government workers after two unions voted to reject the latest proposals.

Last month the Public Services Commission (PSC) offered a 4% pay rise for 2024/25 and a 2.5% rise for 2025/26.

But nearly 74% of Unite union members and 51% of Prospect union members who took part in a vote rejected the deal.

Rob Callister, chairman of the commission, said workers did need to get the uplift and entitlement they "deserve", but there were "financial pressures" within the Manx government.

The unions represent workers across government including civil servants, education support staff and manual and craft workers.

In the budget there was "only a set amount set aside" for pay awards and "everything else would have to be met through efficiencies and savings", Callister added.

"It has been going on a long time and we now need to find a quick resolution."

Mick Hewer, Prospect negotiations officer called for the commission to reinstate the previously offered two-year position of 4% for 2024/25 and 3% 2025/26 as well as harmonising annual leave.

Mr Hewer said he was "mindful of the present financial climate", but he would urge the commission to settle the matter "as swiftly as possible".

"Our position is fair and reasonable", he said, adding that he was "willing" to work with the commission to achieve an agreement as to how present and future negotiations were resolved.

Unite union had called the offer put to them last month "derisory", but Debbie Halsall from the union said it was "open to a conversation this week".

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