The Court of Appeal judgment last month has given a reason to smile for overnight care workers as it has upheld the Employment Court ruling which favors the minimum wage payment for overnight care workers.

The Employment Court has given its decision in the favor of worker Phil Dickson who was an employee of IHC Subsidiary Idea Services, stating that he is entitled for minimum wages for overnight duty.

Dickson said that he has been paid $3 an hour for overnight work in all the years during his service and it’s time that they get ample wages.

Idea Services had appealed against the ruling in Supreme Court.

Negotiations will soon start between the government, unions and health and disability workers to ascertain the source of fund for minimum wages. Tony Ryall, Health Minister, said that the recent decision may cost Government $500 million and hints that Government may mull over to make changes in Minimum Wages Act.

Richard Wagstaff, Public Service Association National Secretary, said that discussions will be held about current pay rate, back pay and extra funds for the sector. He also added that it’s ample opportunity to sit around the table and chalk out a solution.