Collective Bargaining: Received Orthodoxy Discarded in Public Sector Wage Determination

Abstract

This paper considers government labour policy concerning wage determination vis-à-vis the reality on ground. Observing that government continues to embrace collective bargaining in principle but prefers using wage commission approach in determining wages. It then proffers explanation for the inconsistency. It surmises that, it could be sovereignty principle. In other words, it is beneath government to bargain with its subjects. It could be the fear that in the end collective bargaining could consume a lot of time and implementation of collective agreement may cost much more than government can safely pay. Also the declaration of most of public sector as essential services renders strike, which is an economic weapon used by workers, inconceivable.

Keywords: collective bargaining, received orthodoxy, discarded, public sector wage determination