News Categories: Media Release

MEDIA RELEASE 15 Jun
By: MLSS PR Unit 0

Minister Charles Reaffirms Jamaica’s Commitment to Social Justice and Decent Work for All

labour ministry with coat of arms

Communication Unit

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Wednesday, June 14, 2023

 

Minister Charles Reaffirms Jamaica’s Commitment to Social Justice and Decent Work for All

 

 

Minister of Labour & Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., has reaffirmed Jamaica’s Commitment to Social Justice and Decent Work for All. Minister Charles was delivering his Statement to the 111th Session of the International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, on Monday, June 12, 2023.

The Minister reaffirmed Jamaica’s commitment to enacting legislation that safeguards the safety and health of all workers, noting that “a safe and healthy working environment is not a privilege, BUT AN ENTITLEMENT for all workers”.

The Minister emphasized that “the issue of social justice is critical” and stated that “In Jamaica, the advancement of Social Justice and the Decent Work Agenda are at the core of our policies and programmes”. He pointed to Jamaica’s Social Justice (So-JUST) Programme, which was launched in January 2023, noting that the programme is geared towards strengthening inclusive governance, the rule of law and access to justice with special focus on vulnerable communities and “at risk” groups.

 

Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., Minister of Labour and Social Security, delivers his Statement to the International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, on Monday, June 12, 2023.

 

Contact: MLSS Communication Unit (876) 967-5484
|Email: prunit@mlss.gov.jm
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MEDIA RELEASE 15 Jun
By: MLSS PR Unit 0

State Minister Dunn Lauds Jamaican Farm Workers’ Donation to High School Students Pursuing Agricultural Studies

labour ministry with coat of arms

Communication Unit

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Wednesday, June 14, 2023

 

State Minister Dunn Lauds Jamaican Farm Workers’ Donation to High School Students Pursuing Agricultural Studies

 

 

Six Hundred Thousand dollars (J$600,000) in cash grants was presented to twenty (20) students from ten (10) prominent High Schools across mainly rural St Catherine, on Monday, June 12, 2023.

The initiative, spearheaded by Jamaican Farm Workers attached to the Gebbers Farms in Washington State, USA, provided the Grade 10 students with the financial aid to assist with their pursuit of studies in Agriculture at their various institutions.

In making his contribution, Farm Work Supervisor, Eyon Gayle noted that the initiative had selected Agricultural students, because “food security and sustainable agriculture must be central to Jamaica’s 2030 Vision if it is to be fully realized”. He said, that in a world controlled by cutting edge technologies, “our young people need to be prepared to compete”.

During his address at the handing over ceremony, State Minister in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Dr. the Hon. Norman Dunn, said, “Each student will receive an amount of J$30,000.00 towards assisting with their studies. This act of kindness represents an example of commitment to country and dedication to civic responsibility, which unfortunately sometimes goes unrecognized and unappreciated, but should be emulated”.

Minister Dunn noted that for the past 12 years, Jamaican Farm Workers at the Gebbers Farms in the United States have been engaging in fund-raising activities and donating the proceeds to assist their fellow countrymen and women in need in communities across Jamaica. Since then, the initiative has sought to ‘give back’ through support with educational and other grants. To date, residents at the Golden Age Home in St. Andrew as well as students across the parishes of St Ann, St Thomas and Clarendon have benefitted.

“I would like to take this opportunity to commend the workers for their thoughtfulness, kindness and goodwill towards their fellow Jamaicans. I am happy that the workers have seen it fit to donate these funds to a wonderful cause each time.” Minister Dunn said.

The Gebbers Farms has been employing Jamaican Farm Workers since 2010 and is one of the largest employers of Jamaican Workers with over 300 workers.

 

 Dr the Hon. Norman Dunn, (1st left) State Minister in the Ministry of Labour & Social Security, shares in the official handing over of the symbolic grant cheque to two (2) of the (20) High School recipients. Looking on are Sophia Forbes Hall, (2nd left) Director of the Ministry of Education and Youth Region 6, Eyon Gayle, (Centre) Supervisor of Gebbers Farms and Kereen Reid Clarke, Community Relations Officer of the Ministry of Education and Youth Region 6.

 

Contact: MLSS Communication Unit (876) 967-5484
|Email: prunit@mlss.gov.jm
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MEDIA RELEASE 15 Jun
By: MLSS PR Unit 0

Ministry Denies Allegations of Pension Fraud Probe

labour ministry with coat of arms

Communication Unit

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Wednesday, June 14, 2023

 

Ministry Denies Allegations of Pension Fraud Probe

 

 

The Ministry takes note of the recent publication by the Jamaica Observer titled “Pension Fraud Probe”.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security states categorically that there is no fraud probe being conducted by its Internal Auditors into the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) at this time. The Ministry has not received any reports of fraudulent activity relating to the Postmaster General (PMG) paying out more money than was disbursed to them by the NIS.

However, the Ministry takes note of the article and considers these allegations serious. As such we are inviting external independent authorities to examine the allegations to ensure full transparency and accountability.

The Ministry is assuring the public that it takes the management of public resources seriously, and that it continues to implement strategies to ensure the efficient and effective performance of our systems.

 

 

Contact: MLSS Communication Unit (876) 967-5484
|Email: prunit@mlss.gov.jm
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MEDIA RELEASE 13 Jun
By: MLSS PR Unit 0

Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr. Engages Executive Director of the International Trade Centre (ITC) in His First International Meeting as Minister of Labour & Social Security

labour ministry with coat of arms

Communication Unit

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Monday, June 12, 2023

 

Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr. Engages Executive Director of the International Trade Centre (ITC) in His First International Meeting as Minister of Labour & Social Security

 

 

On Monday June 12, Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. held discussions with the Executive Director of the International Trade Centre (ITC), Ms. Pamela Coke Hamilton, his first international meeting in his new capacity as Labour Minister, in Geneva, Switzerland. Coke Hamilton is a Jamaican who has held the top position at the ITC since 2020.

Minister Charles departed the island on the weekend, with a delegation from the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, to attend the International Labour Conference in Geneva Switzerland. The International Labour Conference establishes and adopts international labour standards and is a forum for discussion of key social and labour issues.

The Minister and Ms. Coke Hamilton discussed areas of possible cooperation, especially as Jamaica charts the way forward in ensuring that the Labour Market is positioned to take advantage of the changing global landscape. Minister Charles spoke about the strong emergence of the platform economy since the Covid 19 pandemic, and the need to maximize the potential that lies in the digital landscape. “There are enormous opportunities for trade and labour. However we need to define the future labour market we want, and pursue the policies and initiatives that will enable us to achieve higher incomes for our people” said Minister Charles.

Ms. Coke Hamilton pledged the ITC’s support to Jamaica for research and further cooperation in respect of repositioning Jamaica’s work force in light of the emerging global landscape and the future of work. The parties agreed to continue discussions and work towards this objective.

 

Minister of Labour & Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., MP, (3rd from left) pictured with Executive
Director for the International Trade Centre (ITC), Ms. Pamela Coke Hamilton, (2nd from left) and Permanent
Secretary in the Ministry of Labour & Social Security, Mrs. Colette Roberts Risden, (1st l) along with a staff
member of the ITC, following their discussions.

 

Contact: MLSS Communication Unit (876) 967-5484
|Email: prunit@mlss.gov.jm
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MEDIA RELEASE 02 Jun
By: MLSS PR Unit 0

Normality to Return to Public School System on Monday following Labour Ministry Intervention

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Communication Unit

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Friday, May 26, 2023

 

Normality to Return to Public School System on Monday following Labour Ministry Intervention

 

 

Following reports of Industrial Action by teachers in Government Administered schools yesterday, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security convened an emergency Conciliation Meeting between the Ministry of Education and Youth and the Jamaica Teachers’ Association at its North Street office today, Friday, May 26, 2023.

Arising from the meeting the parties have agreed to a resumption of normality, and all public schools are expected to resume normal operations on, Monday, May 29, 2023.

The parties have further agreed to continue talks with the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service on Tuesday, May 30, 2023.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security continues to monitor the situation.

 

 

Contact: MLSS Communication Unit (876) 967-5484
|Email: prunit@mlss.gov.jm
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MEDIA RELEASE 02 Jun
By: MLSS PR Unit 0

Labour Ministry Calls Emergency Conciliation Meeting with the Ministry of Education and the Jamaica Teachers Association

labour ministry with coat of arms

Communication Unit

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Thursday, May 25, 2023

 

Labour Ministry Calls Emergency Conciliation Meeting with the Ministry of Education and the Jamaica Teachers Association

 

 

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security has arranged an Emergency Conciliation Meeting between the Ministry of Education and Youth and the Jamaica Teachers’ Association, for Friday, May 26, 2023, in response to the reported Industrial Action being taken by teachers in Government Administered (Public) Schools across the island.

The meeting will be held at the North Street office of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, commencing at 8:30 a.m.

The Labour Ministry will be attempting to have the current impasse between the teachers and the government amicably resolved within the soonest possible time

 

 

Contact: MLSS Communication Unit (876) 967-5484
|Email: prunit@mlss.gov.jm
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MEDIA RELEASE 02 Jun
By: MLSS PR Unit 0

National Council for Senior Citizens Celebrates Centenarian Day 2023

labour ministry with coat of arms

Communication Unit

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Friday, May 19, 2023

 

National Council for Senior Citizens Celebrates Centenarian Day 2023

 

 

Jamaica celebrates Centenarians Day on May 20, 2023. The National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSC), a department within the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS), honoured eight outstanding senior citizens, aged 100 years and older across Kingston and St Andrew in observance of Centenarians’ Day 2023. This is largely influenced by the Ministry acknowledging the profound impact of these citizens’ contributions to nation-building.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Colette Roberts Risden, expressed her profound respect for the centenarians “We are proud to honour our centenarians. Their tenacity, intelligence, and untiring spirit set an example for future generations. We express our sincerest appreciation for their service to our country and recognize their lasting contribution to shaping Jamaica.”

Centenarians Day 2023 serves as a reminder of the work and legacy of Jamaica’s senior citizens, and the National Council for Senior Citizens remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for the well-being and rights of senior citizens.

Executive Director of the National Council for Senior Citizens, Cassandra Morrison, commented on the event: “Centenarian Day is a joyous occasion that allows us to honour the longevity and wisdom of our cherished senior citizens. We are grateful to meet with them and hear and learn from their stories. Our partnership with the Jamaica Memory Bank documents their experiences.

Echoing the same sentiments, Chairman of the NCSC, Grace-Ann Scarlett Duncan said, “Our centenarians represent a wealth of knowledge and experience that is invaluable to our country. We are proud to acknowledge and honour their remarkable lives, and we will continue our efforts to provide them with the care, respect, and support they deserve.”

Centenarian Day is a welcomed yearly tradition that stands as a most memorable one. This year, reigning Jamaica Festival Queen, Velonique Bowen patronized the centenarians and calls for young people to engage with seniors for a better society. The experiences and significant contributions of Jamaica’s centenarians color our rich history and offer invaluable gems of wisdom for the younger generations.

 

 

Contact: MLSS Communication Unit (876) 967-5484
|Email: prunit@mlss.gov.jm
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MEDIA RELEASE 02 Jun
By: MLSS PR Unit 0

Increases to National Insurance Scheme (NIS) Invalidity and Widows and Widowers Pensions

labour ministry with coat of arms

Communication Unit

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Friday, May 19, 2023

 

Increases to National Insurance Scheme (NIS) Invalidity and Widows and Widowers Pensions

 

 

Further to our earlier advisory, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security is advising members of the public that along with the Retirement Pension benefits, the Invalidity and the Widows and Widowers Pensions under the National Insurance Scheme have also been increased, with effect from April 1, 2023. The increases range from 23% to 76%.

The benefit for persons in receipt of Full-rate pensions has been increased by 23%, moving from $3,400 to $4,200 per week.

For persons receiving three-Quarter-rate pensions, the benefit has been increased by 37%, and move from $2,550 per week to $3,500 per week.

Pensioners receiving half-rate pensions will see an increase of 76%, moving from $1,700 per week to $3,000 per week.

Payment of the new rates will be delivered on a phased basis, starting in June 2023.

Pensioners who receive their payment by direct deposits will receive their payments of the new rates mid-June. Payment of arrears will be made at the end of June.

Pensioners who are paid by Pension Order Books, will receive the new rates when their new Pension Order Books are due beginning in July. That is, pensioners who are due new books in July 2023 will see the new rates reflected. The first Pension Order Voucher in the new book will reflect the arrears.

Similarly, pensioners whose new Pension Order Books are due in August, will be paid the new rate, with the arrears reflecting on the first Pension Order Voucher in the new books.

 

 

Contact: MLSS Communication Unit (876) 967-5484
|Email: prunit@mlss.gov.jm
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MEDIA RELEASE 02 Jun
By: MLSS PR Unit 0

Increases to National Insurance Scheme Pensions

labour ministry with coat of arms

Communication Unit

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Wednesday, May 17, 2023

 

Increases to National Insurance Scheme Pensions

 

 

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security is advising members of the public that the Old Age or Retirement Pension benefits under the National Insurance Scheme have been increased, with effect from April 1, 2023. The increases range from 23% to 76%.

Full-rate pensions have been increased by 23%, moving from $3,400 to $4,200 per week.

Three-Quarter-rate pensions have been increased by 37%, and move from $2,550 per week to $3,500 per week.

Pensioners receiving half-rate pensions will see an increase of 76%, moving from $1,700 per week to $3,000 per week.

Payment of the new rates will be delivered on a phased basis, starting in June 2023.

Pensioners who receive their payment by direct deposits will receive their payments of the new rates mid-June. Payment of arrears will be made at the end of June.

Pensioners who are paid by Pension Order Books, will receive the new rates when their new Pension Order Books are due beginning in July. That is, pensioners who are due new books in July 2023 will see the new rates reflected. The first Pension Order Voucher in the new book will reflect the arrears.

Similarly, pensioners whose new Pension Order Books are due in August, will be paid the new rate, with the arrears reflecting on the first Pension Order Voucher in the new books.

 

 

Contact: MLSS Communication Unit (876) 967-5484
|Email: prunit@mlss.gov.jm
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MEDIA RELEASE 05 May
By: MLSS PR Unit 0

Increases to National Minimum Wage, and Minimum Wage for Industrial Security Guards

labour ministry with coat of arms

Communication Unit

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Friday, May 5, 2023

 

Increases to National Minimum Wage, and Minimum Wage for Industrial Security Guards

 

 

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Karl Samuda, is advising members of the public that effective June 1, 2023, both the National Minimum Wage, and the Minimum Wage for Industrial Security Guards, will be increased.

The National Minimum Wage for workers, including household workers, will be increased to $13,000.00 per 40-hour work week. The rates of increase are as follows: –

· Single time rate will be increased to $325.00 per hour for work done during any period not exceeding 40 hours in any week.

· Time and a half rate will be increased to $487.50 per hour for work done in excess of 40 hours in any week.

· Double time rate will be increased to $650.00 per hour for work done during any period on a rest day or on a Public Holiday.

 

The Minimum Wage for Industrial Security Guards will be increased to $14,000.00 per 40-hour work week. The rates of increase are as follows: –

· Single time rate will be increased to $350.00 per hour for work done during any period not exceeding 40 hours in any week.

· Time and a half rate will be increased to $525.00 per hour for work done during any period in excess of 40 hours in any week.

· Double time rate will be increased to $700.00 per hour for any period worked on a rest day or Public Holiday.

 

Rates for the following Allowances will also be increased:

· Laundry Allowance will be increased to $52.38 per hour.

· Firearm Premium Allowance will be increased to $57.15 per hour.

· Dog Holders’ Premium Allowance will be increased to $39.29 per hour.

The Minister is further advising that Life Insurance Coverage with Double Indemnity Protection and Dismemberment Coverage applicable to Industrial Security Guards will be increased to $3,273,000.00.

 

 

Contact: MLSS Communication Unit (876) 967-5484
|Email: prunit@mlss.gov.jm
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