The Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions (JCTU) says the wage agreement inked earlier this week, represents a compromised position by both the unions and the government.

The JCTU, which is a grouping of eleven unions, signed the four year wage deal on Tuesday, which will see some 50,000 government workers taking home salary increases of five, two , four and five percent, over the four years.

Teachers, doctors, nurses and the police are still negotiating with the finance ministry.

JCTU President, Helene Davis- Whyte, says the confederation signed, as the majority of member unions agreed that the last offer from the government should be accepted.

She points out that this position was recommended by the JCTU board at a meeting some weeks ago.

Mrs. Davis-Whyte says, the state workers will also see increases on allowances and the deal covers outstanding allowances.

The JCTU President adds that transport for public sector workers was also addressed.

Meanwhile, the umbrella trade union grouping for public sector workers says its latest wage deal with government has built-in safeguards, against rising inflation.

Mrs. Davis-Whyte indicates this was needed as the contract covers four years.

She adds that the acceptance of the government’s offer was  on  condition that retroactive amounts would be paid in March, and the new rates in April.