Labour Ministry To Strengthen Work Permit System
The Ministry of Labour and Social Security will use a US$1.5 million fund from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to strengthen its work permit system. The improvement of the system, according to Minister Shahine Robinson, is to be done under the public sector modernisation project.
“I want to assure you that there is a rigorous process in place for the work permit applications. The IDB, through the Ministry of Finance, will fund the strengthening of our work permit system. The aim of the programme is to roll out a new client-focused, web-based work permit system that will be linked to the Labour Market Information System,” Robinson said at her ministry’s quarterly press briefing yesterday.
SKILLS BANK
She said that it is envisioned that the new system will, among other things, provide a local skills bank in relation to the importation of skilled workers, resulting in more stringent measures for approval. It will also serve to shorten the time allotted for processing and will assist in simplifying the process of doing business in Jamaica.
Robinson also disclosed that effective April 1, work permit fees would be standardised across all sectors of the labour market. Work permit application fees will increase from $15,000 to $17,250. Work permit fees will now be $48,875 per quarter or part thereof. This equates to $195,500 per annum.
According to the minister, the adjustment is necessary because of the disparity across the system in regards of fees being charged.
She said that in the case of persons coming to Jamaica to work, it would make more sense for the adoption of a single standard-fee policy that would cover all sectors of employment.
Source: Jamaica Gleaner