$350 Million Paid Out to T&TEC Employees in Outstanding Dues

A significant financial milestone has been reached for employees of the Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission (T&TEC), with Minister of Public Utilities Barry Padarath announcing the disbursement of nearly $350 million in outstanding payments. This substantial payout, which includes long-awaited Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) arrears dating back to 2015, represents a major step towards resolving legacy issues and stabilizing industrial relations within the vital utility sector. The government's commitment to addressing these long-standing debts underscores its efforts to improve worker morale and operational stability at T&TEC.

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Over the last couple of months, we have paid out, I would say, close to $350 million in outstanding payments that were owed to T&TEC workers.

The phased payment plan, meticulously coordinated with the Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union (OWTU), ensures that both current and former employees, including retirees, are compensated. Minister Padarath highlighted the positive trajectory of these settlements, emphasizing the ongoing dialogue and cooperative approach with the OWTU. This collaborative effort is crucial for maintaining a constructive relationship between management and the union, fostering an environment conducive to future negotiations and operational efficiency.

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The payment would have been in one or two parts. Each part would have had tranches. So, in December 2025, January and February of 2026, active employees would have received what was outstanding.

The process, which began late last year for active employees, is set to conclude by July for former employees and retirees. OWTU's second vice-president, Reesa Ramlogan-Jodha, confirmed the structured arrangement, describing the issue as a decade-long industrial challenge. The successful resolution of these arrears signifies not only a financial settlement but also a restoration of confidence and fairness for the T&TEC workforce. This development is viewed positively within the context of ongoing restructuring and negotiations for current and future bargaining periods, aiming for sustained stability and progress within the commission.

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As of May, June and July of this year, the outstanding payments would be made to former employees, which include retirees, of course. So, at the end of July, that would bring to a close the final payments on what has been outstanding with regards to COLA.