Labour Ministry considering review of labour laws and code
The country’s private sector groupings have reported, that the Labour Ministry has responded to the call for a review of the labour laws and code procedures.
The groups recently expressed concern that the Industrial Disputes Tribunal (IDT) is employee centric, and had been ruling in favour of workers and against employers.
The concern was raised in the wake of revelations that the government decided to settle with former Human Resource Manager at Petrojam Yolande Ramharrack, instead of having the matter go through a disciplinary hearing, as that would have been more costly.
In a statement today (Feb 22) the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA), the Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PSOJ) and the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC) said they have been advised, that the call for the urgent review of the Labour Relations and Industrial Dispute Act, and the Labour Relations Code, was tabled in a meeting of the Labour Advisory Council on February 13.
Subsequently, the Ministry of Labour and social security requested formal comments from key stakeholders, as to the issues or areas for inclusion in the review.
The groups acknowledged the development and expressed appreciation to the minister for her decision to use her authority and to act on the recommendation to review the act and its code, as well as to consult with the private sector stakeholders in undertaking the modification.
The groups say they are anticipating the review being conducted with fairness, transparency and alacrity.
Source: IrieFm.net