News Categories: Media Release

Public Relations and Communication Unit,

1F North Street, Kingston

Sunday, October 22, 2023

Charles Jr. on a mission to improve Farmwork Programme

Today, the Honourable Pearnel Charles Jr., Minister of Labour and Social Security, along with a high-level delegation from his ministry, arrived in Canada. This trip’s core objective is to engage with officials and key stakeholders pertaining to the Ministry’s Farmwork Programme.

During his visit, Minister Charles Jr. will be journeying to several farms, providing an invaluable opportunity to engage in intensive discussions with the farmworkers on the ground. “I eagerly anticipate their candid insights, and I will be encouraging open dialogue and transparent sharing from the workers.” Charles Jr said.

Minister Charles Jr. is also taking this opportunity to review various notable locations, pinpointed in prior reports, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the programme’s current status. Through these direct interactions, the minister aims to gather crucial feedback that will significantly inform future strategic directions to augment and diversify the programme.

As part of his agenda, the minister will engage the workers and commend them on their enduring commitment and years of service. He will also extend his appreciation to the employers, whose partnerships have been pivotal, not only in enriching the lives of the participating Jamaican citizens but also in advancing our national development trajectory.

Following the culmination of this trip, Minister Charles Jr. is slated to address the parliament, sharing his findings, and unveiling further strategic initiatives. This statement will delineate new policies envisioned for the programme, offering clarity on the path ahead.

-END-

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

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Wednesday, October 11, 2023

Labour Ministry Facilitates Dialogue Amid Petrojam Technical Services Industrial Action

Today, over two hundred and seventeen (217) workers from Petrojam Technical Services took industrial action in the form of a ‘sick out’, highlighting their reservations about the current compensation review process. This action was brought to the Ministry’s attention by the Union of Clerical Administrative and Supervisory Employees (UCASE).

Understanding the importance of prompt resolution in such matters, the Hon. Pearnel Charles, Jr. organized a conciliatory meeting.

Minister Charles, Jr. has emphasized his Ministry’s unyielding commitment to ensuring a fair and balanced approach to workplace concerns. He has appealed to the workers to reconvene and continue their duties following their scheduled meeting with UCASE, slated for 8:00 a.m. tomorrow.
Reaffirming the Ministry’s approach towards industrial harmony, Minister Charles, Jr. has ensured that once normal operations are restored, a dedicated session for negotiations will be set for 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 12, 2023.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security stands firm in its mission to foster positive workplace relationships, ensuring the concerns and well-being of our Jamaican workforce remain at the forefront of our initiatives.

Contact: Marcia Bolt Williams, Dir. Public Relations & Communication (876) 298-7025 or (876) 967-5484
|Email: : marcia.williams@mlss.gov.jm/ prunit@mlss.gov.jm
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Communication Unit

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Wednesday, October 4, 2023

Minister Charles and Productivity Chairman, Omar Azan commit to Collaborative Path to Enhance Productivity in Jamaica

The Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr, Minister of Labour & Social Security, held a fruitful meeting today with newly appointed Chairman of the Productivity Centre, Mr. Omar Azan to discuss strategies aimed at bolstering productivity and productivity awareness in Jamaica. The meeting took place at the Ministry’s Heroes Circle Office in Kingston earlier today. This marked a significant step towards achieving greater efficiency and competitiveness in the Jamaican workforce.

During the meeting, both parties acknowledged the critical role productivity plays in the economic growth and development of Jamaica. They emphasized the importance of improving productivity across all sectors to enhance the standard of living and create more opportunities for Jamaican citizens.

Minister Charles Jr and Mr. Azan reaffirmed their commitment towards developing productivity public education programmes to increase national awareness and to sensitize more Jamaicans about the importance of productivity at every level. “The concept of Productivity should not be seen as just an isolated idea for businesses and business people, it is also an approach that should be adopted in our homes, families, workplace and all other spheres of life and should be embraced as lifestyle for every Jamaican citizens,” the Minister said. The Minister noted that we should swiftly look at how we can create a productivity system that includes persons with disabilities, our senior citizens and young people.

Both parties agreed the Jamaica Productivity Centre should lead a comprehensive public awareness campaign to educate employers and employees about the benefits of improved productivity. They also emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagements, including businesses, labour unions, and educational institutions, in the productivity enhancement efforts.

Chairman Azan echoed this sentiment, saying, “If we can become granular and transparent in sharing the concept of productivity to our people, then that will make a huge difference.”

The Productivity Centre is committed to working hand in hand with various stakeholders to empower Jamaican workers and businesses to achieve their highest potential. By enhancing productivity, we can unlock new opportunities and raise the standard of living for all Jamaicans.”

(L-R) Minister of Labour & Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr. poses for a photo opportunity with newly appointed Board Chairman of the Jamaica Productivity Centre, Mr. Omar Azan along with Chief Technical Director for the Jamaica Productivity Centre, Mrs. Tamar Nelson and State Minister in the Ministry of Labour & Social Security, the Hon. Dr. Norman Dunn following a Courtesy Call held at the Ministry’s Heroes Circle Office in Kingston on October 4.

Minister of Labour & Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr. engages newly appointed Board Chairman of the Jamaica Productivity Centre, Mr. Omar Azan in a deep discussion about his tenureship during a Courtesy Call at the Ministry’s Heroes Circle Office in Kingston on October 4.

Contact: Marcia Bolt Williams, Dir. Public Relations & Communication (876) 298-7025 or (876) 967-5484
|Email: : marcia.williams@mlss.gov.jm/ prunit@mlss.gov.jm
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Communication Unit

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Monday, August 28, 2023

Ministry of Labour & Social Security Responds Urgently to Fire Victims in Kingston

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security’s team of Social Workers attached to the Kingston and St. Andrew Parish Office was kept busy on Thursday, conducting assessments, and delivering urgently needed disaster relief supplies to families affected by two fires in Central Kingston.

The team delivered nineteen (19) mattresses, along with groceries, drinking water, blankets, and toiletries and cleaning supplies to the occupants of 33½ Rum Lane. Thirty (30) persons were left homeless following a fire which destroyed three houses and their contents early Thursday morning.

The team’s second stop was at 6½ Rosemarie Lane, where 21 persons had been left homeless due to another fire Thursday morning. Fifteen (15) mattresses were delivered to the householders, along with a quantity of food and drinking water, bedding, toiletries, and sanitation supplies.

The Ministry’s team has invited the affected families to visit the parish office for further assistance.

Public Assistance Administrator at the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Dexter Phillips (R), speaks briefly with one of the fire victims, Patricia Campbell (L), during last Thursday’s (August 24) delivery of relief supplies to the thirty (30) individuals whose homes were destroyed by fire early that morning, in the Rum Lane community of Central Kingston.

One of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security’s dispatch vehicles delivers new mattresses and other relief supplies to the thirty (30) fire victims who were burnt out of their homes last Thursday morning (August 24), in Rum Lane, downtown Kingston.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security’s Public Assistance team unloads one of the Ministry’s dispatch vehicles filled with relief supplies, to hand over to the families whose home was completely destroyed by fire on Thursday, August 24, in Rosemarie Lane, Kingston.

Contact: Marcia Bolt Williams, Dir. Public Relations & Communication (876) 298-7025 or (876) 967-5484
|Email: : marcia.williams@mlss.gov.jm/ prunit@mlss.gov.jm
Like and follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mlssjamaica/?ref=bookmarks; Twitter: https://twitter.com/JamaicaMlss and on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mlssjamaica Visit our website: www.mlss.gov.jm for more.

Communication Unit

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Thursday, August 24, 2023

Ministry of Labour & Social Security Delivers Assistance to Fire Victims in Clarendon

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security, the Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., on Tuesday provided assistance to a family in the Community of Dampy, Clarendon, following the loss of their home and belongings to a fire on Saturday, August 19.

Minister Charles Jr. and a team of Social Workers from the Ministry’s May Pen office delivered groceries, mattresses, blankets, a gas stove, and cleaning supplies as part of the Ministry’s emergency response.

Ms. Lola Edwards, head of the household shared her appreciation for the items and expressed the hope that the next time the Minister visits it will “be under better circumstances”.

In his remarks, Minister Charles Jr. said, “I wish that there was something that could be put in place to minimize the number of fires as Clarendon is one of the parishes with the most fires annually. However, I give you my commitment that I will do my best to provide every possible means of assistance to your family, both in my capacity as Labour Minister and Social Services Minister and Member of Parliament.”

The Ministry’s team has invited the family to visit the parish office for further assistance as soon as they are in receipt of the official report from the Jamaica Fire Brigade.

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon Pearnel Charles Jr., (2nd Right), Acting Parish Manager, Mr. Bartholomew Redwood (L) and Public Assistance Administrator, Ms. Millicent Blair (R) present disaster relief supplies to Ms. Lola Edwards (2nd L), following a fire at her home.

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon Pearnel Charles Jr., and Ms. Lola Edwards (Fire victim) viewing photos of the damage done to her dwelling on her phone.

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon Pearnel Charles Jr., and Acting Parish Manager, Mr. Bartholomew Redwood separate cleaning items to assist Ms. Lola Edwards with the clean-up process after a fire destroyed her home.

Contact: Marcia Bolt Williams, Dir. Public Relations & Communication (876) 298-7025 or (876) 967-5484
|Email: : marcia.williams@mlss.gov.jm/ prunit@mlss.gov.jm
Like and follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mlssjamaica/?ref=bookmarks; Twitter: https://twitter.com/JamaicaMlss and on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mlssjamaica Visit our website: www.mlss.gov.jm for more.

Communication Unit

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Friday, August 18, 2023

Ministry of Labour & Social Security Investigates Claim of Victimization

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security reiterates that we consider all complaints from farm workers seriously and that we have taken particular note of the publication in the Jamaica Observer referencing allegations of victimization against farm workers. We are unable to substantiate the allegations as publicised by the Jamaica Observer and have received no formal complaint from the workers. Nevertheless, due to the serious nature of the allegations we have invited the workers to a meeting today to hear from them directly as we continue to investigate this matter.

Our preliminary investigations thus far have revealed the following:

1. For the farm in issue there has been a notable fallout in production yield from the early cycle crops – asparagus and strawberry

2. Based on changes in climatic conditions the Spring Frost impacted the crop production, causing a decline in projected crop yields.

3. Early cessation of employment is a common occurrence based on circumstances affecting crop production as is observed on several farms in Canada

4. Environmental factors – Climate Change

5. Several farm workers who were a party to the incident earlier in July are still on the job in Canada.

The Ministry will investigate this matter thoroughly and communicate our findings.

Contact: Marcia Bolt Williams, Dir. Public Relations & Communication (876) 298-7025 or (876) 967-5484
|Email: : marcia.williams@mlss.gov.jm/ prunit@mlss.gov.jm
Like and follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mlssjamaica/?ref=bookmarks; Twitter: https://twitter.com/JamaicaMlss and on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mlssjamaica Visit our website: www.mlss.gov.jm for more.

Communication Unit

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Friday, August 11, 2023

Jamaican and Chinese Governments Pledge to Further Strengthen Bilateral Relations

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security has reiterated the Government of Jamaica’s commitment to further strengthen cooperation and bilateral relations with the Peoples’ Republic of China. Labour Minister, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., accompanied by Minister of State, Dr. the Hon. Norman Dunn, and Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Colette Roberts Risden, hosted His Excellency, Chen Daojiang, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Jamaica, during a Courtesy Call at the Ministry’s North Street office, on Wednesday, August 2.

In welcoming the Ambassador, Minister Charles expressed his appreciation for the excellent relations that Jamaica has always enjoyed with the past Chinese Ambassadors to Jamaica, and noted that his presence was of great significance to the Ministry.  For his part, Ambassador Chen Daojiang expressed his pleasure in meeting with the Ministers, and thanked them for the opportunity to discuss labour market issues of mutual interest to both countries.

The Ministers engaged the Ambassador in discussions surrounding opportunities for infusing Chinese expertise into Jamaican Industry, especially prospective opportunities for training and upskilling of the Jamaican workforce. The Ministers expressed particular interest in the employment of simulators in circumstances where face-to-face training was not practical. The discussion included possibilities for the training and development of a pool of skilled master-builders, as a means of providing new, enhanced opportunities for the Jamaican workforce, and the provision of technical assistance to help infuse a culture of workplace safety in Jamaican Industry.

The Chinese Ambassador thanked the Jamaican government for the opportunities provided to Chinese nationals and Chinese industry in Jamaica, and for the confidence reposed in the Chinese government. He invited the Jamaican Government to take advantage of the opportunities for funding provided under the Global Development Initiative, and pledged China’s continued support of and friendship with the Government of Jamaica.

Minister of Labour & Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., (R) and His Excellency, Chen Daojiang, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Jamaica (2nd R), share a light moment after a Courtesy Call at the Ministry’s 1F North Street offices in Kingston on Wednesday, August 2, 2023. Also pictured are Dr. the Hon. Norman Dunn, Minister of State (2nd L), and Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Colette Roberts Risden (L).

Labour Minister Pearnel Charles Jr., (Centre) engages Chinese Ambassador, His Excellency, Chen Daojiang and his delegation in discussions on strengthening diplomatic partnership between Jamaica and China. Min. Charles was accompanied Dr. the Hon. Norman Dunn, Minister of State in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (2nd L) Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Colette Roberts Risden (3rd L), and Senior Advisor to the Minister, Mr. Bindley Sangster (1st L).

Contact: Marcia Bolt Williams, Dir. Public Relations & Communication (876) 298-7025 or (876) 967-5484
|Email: : marcia.williams@mlss.gov.jm/ prunit@mlss.gov.jm
Like and follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mlssjamaica/?ref=bookmarks; Twitter: https://twitter.com/JamaicaMlss and on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mlssjamaica Visit our website: www.mlss.gov.jm for more.

Communication Unit

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Wednesday, July 26, 2023

Monday, August 7, 2023 to be Observed as Independence Day

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security is advising members of the public that Independence Day will be observed on Monday, August 7, 2023.

This is in keeping with the Holidays (Public General) Act, 1895, which provides that where Independence Day falls on a Sunday, it is to be observed on the following Monday.

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

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Monday, July 18, 2023

MLSS Settles Wage Disputes between National Water Commission and Unions

Following the threat of industrial action from the National Water Commission (NWC), the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) has after eight (8) days of negotiations secured an agreement between the entity and the unions representing its workers.

The Honourable Pearnel Charles Jr., signed the agreement this afternoon and stated that, “After a lengthy round of negotiations we can report that we have secured an agreement between the NWC and the five (5) unions representing its workers.  The MLSS continues to serve as a platform for constructive dialogue and we thank the parties including the Ministry of Finance and Public Service for engaging in this process that has resulted in an amicable resolution.”

Over two thousand (2000), workers from the NWC were restive and served seventy two hours (72) hours strike notice in respect of concerns with the implementation of the compensation review. The main areas of concern included the conversion methodology and the treatment of travelling officers.

 Minister of Labour & Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charels Jr., (C) President, National Water Commission Executive Staff Association, Mrs. Pamela Hall Newland, (1st L), General Secretary, National Workers Union, Mr. Granville Valentine, (1st R), joined by General Secretary, JALGO, Mrs. Helene Davis Whyte, (2nd L), Vice President, Bustamante Industrial Trade Union, Mr. Wesley Nelson, (2nd R), President, Union of Private & Public Employees, (UPPE), Mr. Fitzroy Bryan, (3rd L), President, National Water Commission, Mr. Mark Barnett (3rd R) joins in the signing of the New Compensation agreement for the National Water Commission. The parties are guided by Divisional Director, Industrial Relations & Allied Services, Ms Gillian Corrodus. (Standing)

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

1F North Street, Kingston

Tel: (876) 967-5484

Fax: (876) 948-2831

Monday, July 13, 2023

Ministry of Labour & Social Security Urges Caution in Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security takes note of recent concerns raised on Social Media regarding an alleged report of discrimination against a minor with a disability.

The Ministry is reminding members of the public that the Disabilities Act (2014) and its Regulations, which came into full effect on February 14, 2022, provide for the protection of Persons with Disabilities against discrimination in all forms, and that its provisions are enforceable by law.

The Ministry is also reaffirming that the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD) has been established as the lead public body to uphold and protect the rights of Persons with Disabilities in Jamaica.  Persons with Disabilities who have experienced discrimination by virtue of their disability are strongly encouraged to come forward and report their experiences to the JCPD, to enable the appropriate investigations into these matters.

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., is appealing to Jamaicans to treat Persons with Disabilities with the greatest level of care and respect, and to ensure their full access to participation in all spheres of society.

“We firmly believe that every person, regardless of their abilities, deserves to be treated with respect and fairness. There should be no limitation or prevention in accessing any social services as this is a breach of Human Rights.  Our society must be more accommodating to ensure equal access for Persons with Disabilties” Minister Charles said.

The Ministry, through the JCPD, will continue to raise awareness about Disability Rights while empowering Persons with Disabilities and the various stakeholder groups to continue advocacy to achieve greater inclusivity.

The JCPD stands ready to assist individuals, employers and institutions in explaining the Accessibility Checklist available on the JCPD’s Website at www.jcpd.gov.jm; to help you to accommodate or make reasonable arrangements for persons with disabilities.

Members of the Public are invited to report any incident of discrimination to the JCPD by contacting (876) 968-8373/968-0623/618-1133, or by visiting the Council’s offices at 10 Ripon Road, Kingston 5. The public is also invited to visit the JCPD’s Website at www.jcpd.gov.jm  to learn more.

A Child with disability engages in a learning and teaching experience while using his tablet

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