The government says it cannot assent to the request by the Jamaica Teachers Association for higher wages.

The teachers along with the police and nurses are yet to ink a wage deal with the government.

Teachers are in day three of their sick-out, to press the government over the four year wage offer

More than 50 percent of the public sector has signed off on the deal.

Speaking in parliament this afternoon, Minister with responsibility for the Public Service Rudyard Spencer says to maintain wage to GDP ratio, and to be fiscally responsible, the current offer is the best one possible.

Mr. Spencer says it is impractical to give every bargaining unit what they are seeking.

He explains why government has opted to alter the negotiating cycle from two years to four years, to streamline the process.