A deal to give government workers a 2.5 per cent pay rise was struck yesterday with the Bermuda Public Services Union.

The new three-year collective bargaining agreement was signed between the public sector negotiating team and the BPSU.

Lovitta Foggo, Minister of Government Reform, said the deal was “a very important development for the Government and for the BPSU membership”.

She added: “Since coming into office, this government committed to upholding fairness.

“And with this new CBA, we are fulfilling our promises while demonstrating that we appreciate the good works of our public service.

“While the negotiation process continues with various other unions, the Government is pleased to highlight the successful completion of the BPSU agreement.”

Negotiations have been under way since July. The Government’s offer of a 2.5 per cent pay increase was backdated to the start of April.

Ms Foggo thanked the Public Sector Negotiation Team composed of Gary Phillips, Martin Law and John Harvey.

Jason Hayward, president of the BPSU and a government senator, said the agreement would operate until September 2020.

Mr Hayward said it was the civil service’s first negotiated CBA since 2008 and “a significant milestone for our membership”.

He added the increase other contractual gains were “a morale booster for our members, especially after years of sacrifice”.

Mr Hayward said: “This agreement was achieved through a collaborative process of interest-based negotiations.

“The new collective agreement will ensure a working environment where public service officers can focus on providing world-class service both locally and internationally.

“The agreement also strengthens the BPSU’s working relationship and partnership with the Government and will enhance working conditions for public service officers.”