MINISTERS have agreed to look at taking on more power to deal with pay negotiations and crises, as recommended by a Tribunal of Inquiry into the airport firefighters’ dispute.

Policy Council yesterday gave its reaction to the tribunal’s report, which suggested far-reaching changes to the government set-up, and confirmed that it would take the report to the States for debate in June.

‘The Policy Council would like to thank the members of the tribunal and those who have supported them for producing a fair, accurate and detailed account of events, together with helpful, informed and constructive criticism and observations.

‘The recommendations can, and should, be built into an agenda for change.’

The tribunal said the Policy Council should take on responsibility for agreeing public sector pay deals, replacing the current set-up – with the Public Sector Remuneration Committee negotiating on behalf of the States.

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