The NT Police Association and the Government has reached a stalemate over the issue of pay, included in the police EBA.

The Government also wants this new agreement to extend for four years, and not the three years sought by police.

A spokeswoman for the association said members in Katherine had contributed to the overall police position.

“What it comes down to is 0.5 per cent,” she said.

The Government has offered a 2.5 per cent raise in wages across the public service as a blanket position but police say their jobs are different to other public servants, more hazardous, stressful and involves shift work.

“We have asked for three per cent as part of our claim and that has been rejected,” the spokeswoman said.

NTPA president Paul McCue said the government appears “underprepared” and is “disrespectful to the process” in its negotiations with police.

The 2017 NT Police Force Consent Agreement, which outlines terms and conditions for the Territory’s Police, has been in formal negotiations, as per the prescribed process, since February 6, 2017.

“There is no question these unnecessary delays by government have contributed to the position we find ourselves in today and as a result it is unlikely our police will receive a pay rise from July 1 that they otherwise would have.”

“The government has thrown a blanket over all government employees which clearly demonstrates the lack of understanding of the current policing environment in the Northern Territory.

“The community understand the difficult job our police do, and we would expect that everyone around the negotiating table’s views would reflect the views of the wider community and their respect for our Police.

“Put simply, the offer to the Territory’s Police Officers must reflect the dangerous, unpredictable and changing nature of Police work, no matter where they are stationed across the Territory.

“At a time when other states are looking to lure experienced police officers with attractive remuneration and professional development opportunities, the Territory must remain competitive,” Mr McCue said.