Union and Government officials this week took part in a training session focused on interest-based bargaining to help set a foundation for future negotiations.

Representatives from the Bermuda Industrial Union, the Bermuda Public Services Union, the Prison Officers Association, the Fire Services Association, the Bermuda Police Association and the Bermuda Union of Teachers took part in the two-day training session, along with government negotiation chairs and their technical teams.

Crystal Caesar, the Minister of the Cabinet Office, said: “This session marked the beginning of a constructive and collaborative negotiation season.

“We met with a shared purpose to engage in negotiations that are fair and forward-thinking.

“Our government is committed to entering into new negotiations with all our union partners, recognising the importance of maintaining strong and productive relationships.”

A government spokeswoman said interest-based bargaining focuses on “mutual gains and collaborative problem-solving, fostering co-operation, reducing conflicts and achieving sustainable agreements”.