Defence Force told to ‘hold strain’ on pay

Antoine also told them that the delay was for a good cause because they would have spent their money for Christmas. Instead, they would now receive it in April when it can be put to much better use.

The occasion was the Chief of Defence Staff Parade at Teteron Barracks, Chaguaramas, where Antoine used the opportunity to remind members of the Defence Force of their significant achievements, and to inform members of plans for the future.

Antoine said, "The Defence Force has a vision plan from now until 2020 where we continue to support law enforcement agencies, in particular with their war on crime. "For the past three years, I concentrated on management. Now it is my intention to concentrate on leadership where I will interact with the officers on a one-on-one basis and learn of their issues so I will be able to take them to the relevant authorities, or deal with them accordingly.

"I told my officers that despite no backpay or salary increase, they must continue to work. Simultaneously to our present parade, we have officers in the commercial districts assisting in the malls and wherever people are shopping.

"We intend to continue into Carnival and then shift into other areas wherever the involvement of the military is required, and other areas involved in law and order.

"The discussions are currently in the hands of the chief personnel officer and it is hoped not only will they be completed and ready by Easter but we will get something that is well deserving."

Negotiations for the 2005/2007 period started earlier this year and have not been completed.

Attending the parade were officers of five detachments — the Unit Commanding Officers of the Army (male and female), Coast Guard, Air Guard and Reserves.

Also present were youths who were involved in the Inter-Agency Task Force camp of 2005 who were brought in to see the military in another light.