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The Honourable Shahine Robinson, MP
Minister of Labour & Social Security
Sectoral Debate Presentation 2016 - 2017
"Advancing Prosperity Through
Labour and Social Protection"
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Tuesday, June 28, 2016
Gordon House
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Mr. Speaker, it is with a deep sense of gratitude and honour that I come to this
Honourable House as the Minister of Labour and Social Security.
To the Prime Minister, The Most Honourable Andrew Holness, I say thank you for the
confidence you have reposed in me and in appointing me the Minister of Labour and
Social Security. I view this assignment as a very important one, given the critical role the
Ministry plays in the transformation of the Jamaican economy and the quest for economic
growth and prosperity. With this in mind, I am fully committed to the task and ideals of
the government in achieving the mandate given by the people of Jamaica.
Let me also say thanks to my family (you have been supportive of all my efforts). I
extend special thanks to my wonderful and valued constituents of North East St. Ann.
Without your support, I would not be here today and I promise wholeheartedly, that I will
put my best foot forward as Member of Parliament in service to you.
Mr. Speaker, I would also like to express gratitude to the dedicated group of public
servants at the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, led by the Permanent Secretary,
Mrs. Colette Roberts Risden. Commendations are in order to our tripartite partners
(employers and trade unions), the various government departments and our external
stakeholders for their continued support to the process of shaping policies and
programmes to benefit Jamaica, land we love.
Mr Speaker, permit me to use this occasion to acknowledge the invaluable contribution of
stalwarts in the labour movement who have recently passed on, namely, Lloyd
Goodleigh, Clive Dobson, Hopeton Caven, Alvin Sinclair and Roosevelt Walker and to
assure that we will continue the tremendous legacy of their work.
REPORTING OBLIGATIONS
Mr. Speaker, today I intend to outline the initiatives within the Ministry that are critical and which will contribute - to the Administration‟s long-term goal of economic growth
and prosperity under the theme “Advancing Prosperity Through Labour and Social
Protection”
But before I proceed, I wish to lay on the Table of the House four (4) documents in the
form of:
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 The Ministry‟s 2015/2016 Annual Performance Report
 Annual Statistical Bulletin
 Research study entitled „Employment in Renewable Energy: a Focus on Solar
and Wind Energy‟
 Research Paper entitled „Potential Areas of Employment Opportunities Due To
Logistics Hub Development‟
Mr. Speaker, I wish to highlight the diligence and conscientiousness of the dedicated
team at the Ministry in ensuring that our annual reporting obligations to Parliament are
fulfilled on time each year. I want to highlight our commitment to transparency and good
governance as we seek to provide information on the Ministry‟s varied programmes,
services and initiatives.
Hon. Shahine Robinson (3rd right) greets Ms. Sandrea Dennis at the Ministry's booth following the formal opening of
the 2016 Jamaica Employers Federation Convention and Expo. Sharing in the occasion are (from left) St. James Parish
Manager, Mrs. Carmen Mattison-Neish, Executive Director of JEF, Mrs. Brenda Cuthbert and Permanent Secretary,
Mrs. Colette Roberts Risden.
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IMPROVING LABOUR MARKET OUTCOMES
Mr. Speaker, I begin with the observation from the highly-respected Labour Market
Reform Commission that there is an urgent need to reposition the Ministry of Labour and
Social Security as an „Economic Ministry’, and the need to enhance labour management
and administration in Jamaica. I believe the Ministry must be re-positioned to become a
greater force and stimulant for growth and development.
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) recently released a report titled „What
Works: Active Labour Market Policies in Latin America and the Caribbean‟ warning
that achievements in recent decades - in terms of social inclusion and work quality - have
stalled and are even beginning to reverse, leading to structural stagnation in labour
markets that could, in turn, generate an increase in inequality and informality and erosion
of the middle class". The Report recommended active labour market policies for
improved productive employment creation.
It is in this context, Mr. Speaker, that I await the preliminary recommendations of the
Labour Market Reform Commission in November of this year.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR OVERSEAS EMPLOYMENT
Mr. Speaker, the thrust for economic prosperity and job creation will find us
strengthening and expanding the Overseas Employment Programmes. During the
2015/2016 Fiscal Year, approximately 15,000 Jamaicans were employed in the United
States and Canada. This year, emphasis will be placed on strengthening, expanding and
diversifying the range of job opportunities with a goal of placing 16,000 Jamaican
workers in the North American market by the end of the 2017 season.
Mr Speaker, the Canadian Authorities in 2014, restricted the entry of foreign workers into
certain Low Skill occupations. Recent reports suggest that this situation is likely to
change in the very near future as the Canadian Government, in response to critical labour
shortages is contemplating relaxing some of these restrictions.
Mr Speaker, the prospects and placements in the United States are also trending upwards
as this market continues to rebound. The growing demand for Jamaican workers in both
the agricultural and hospitality sectors resulted in increases of 5.8% and 3%, respectively,
in 2015.
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The Ministry is of the firm view that there is further scope for expansion in the United
States. It is in this context that plans are afoot for me to meet with major employer
groups both in the US and Canada in the coming weeks to promote the progamme and the
quality of our workers with a view to securing more jobs.
Mr. Speaker, we all know that Jamaican workers - wherever they are found – bring strong
work ethics, discipline, productivity, and a commitment to excellence. These powerful
attributes will be promoted – and made available – in the global marketplace!
Consequently, Mr. Speaker, exploratory approaches are being made in unexplored
territories right here in the Caribbean and even as far away as the Australasian region and we are actively seeking to convert these prospects into avenues for employment.
Mr. Speaker, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security is working to advance
prosperity through labour and job creation!
50 REWARDING YEARS: CANADIAN SEASONAL AGRICULTURAL
WORKERS PROGRAMME
Mr. Speaker, I use this occasion to point out that the Canadian Seasonal Agricultural
Workers Programme (CSAWP) is very special as it marks the 50th year of partnership
between Jamaica and Canada.
The Programme has helped to reduce unemployment especially in rural communities. It
provides income to thousands of Jamaican families whereby many are able to own their
home and send their children to school and university. The country also benefits from
remittance inflows, higher levels of savings, increased technological transfer, and an
overall reduction in poverty and social inequality. Mr Speaker, the importance of the
Programme cannot be overemphasized as we celebrate this historic milestone and the 50
rewarding years of partnership between Jamaica and Canada.
NATIONAL EMPLOYMENT PORTAL
Mr. Speaker, even as we seek to tap into employment opportunities abroad, it is
imperative that we improve labour market efficiency through training and certification
and the development of a national employment portal and labour market information
system (LMIS).
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The Ministry is moving to position the LMIS as the National Portal for labour market
intelligence and information to guide decisions by the various stakeholders who access
the service.
The country‟s current unemployment rate – averaging over 13 per cent in the last five
years – is, in part, a result of skills mismatch with attendant oversupply and undersupply
in certain sectors. The Ministry is working to close these gaps through provision of
germane and up-to-date labour market intelligence and career development services.
Mr. Speaker, under the Inter-American Development Bank‟s Integrated Social Protection
and Labour (ISPL) Project, the functional capacity of the Labour Market Information
System and Electronic Labour Exchange has been improved. These improvements have
resulted in a 267% increase in registered employers and a matching 278% increase in job
placements. It is expected that this positive trend will continue.
Honourable Shahine
Robinson addresses
Grade Nine (9)
students of Holy
Trinity High School in
April 2016, prior to
their participation in
personality testing
administered through
the Ministry’s Labour
Market Information
System (LMIS). .
Mr Speaker, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security is advancing prosperity through
the LMIS by placing special focus on the youth and members of PATH households with
an On-the-Job Training intervention. Mr Speaker, this programme began in July 2015 and
to date, 315 members of PATH families have been placed in income-earning activities.
Mr Speaker, this is prosperity in action for the most vulnerable.
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Mr. Speaker, this afternoon, I want to inform this Honourable House that I will be taking
a submission to Cabinet for the mandatory use of the LMIS to advertise all job vacancies
in the public sector. Mr Speaker, when all public bodies use the system at any point in
time the Government will be able to know all vacancies in the public sector. I wish to use
this medium to encourage employers in the private sector to register and use the system
… Employers the service is free!
RESEARCH: NEW STRATEGIC EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Cognizant of the fact that research fuels development, the Ministry continues to conduct
quantitative and qualitative research which is relevant to the labour market. The third
islandwide National Labour Market Survey will take place this fiscal year. The study
will investigate employment opportunities, skills gaps, training needs and technology
usage among other factors in the labour market.
As Minister, I am encouraging all employers, businesses and enterprises to
participate in this survey exercise.
I mentioned earlier, Mr. Speaker, the two relevant studies tabled: „Employment in Renewable Energy: a Focus on Solar and Wind Energy‟ and „Potential Areas of
Employment Opportunities Due To Logistics Hub Development‟.
The Renewable Energy Study revealed that wind energy projects were being undertaken
by Government while solar energy usage and production was prevalent in the private
sector in tourism, finance and manufacturing. Employment opportunities were mainly
found in the operational, installation and maintenance stages of these projects for
categories of Electrical Engineers, Construction Workers, Solar Panel Installers and Wind
Turbine Operators.
Our Logistics Hub Study found that job opportunities will exist for Custom Brokers,
Multi-skill Technicians, Port Managers, Logistics Clerks, Mechatronics Engineers, Ship
Repairers, as well as Computerized Crane Operators.
Mr. Speaker, the Ministry is working to translate this information into transformative
action to create a trained, certified and available labour pool for home and abroad.
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Resident Rep of the
United Nations
Development
Programme, Mr.
Bruno Pouezat
(2nd left)
discussing details
of the 2015 Human
Development
Report with (from
left) Dr. Wayne
Wesley, Executive
Director of Heart
Trust/ NTA; Hon.
Shahine Robinson,
Minister of Labour
& Social Security ;
and Mrs. Colette
Roberts Risden,
Permanent
Secretary.
PROMOTING PRODUCTIVITY
Mr. Speaker, members of this Honourable House will agree that the low growth in
productivity is the root cause of low economic growth in Jamaica.
The fundamental link between productivity, innovation, competitiveness, economic
growth, and job creation is well established. Mr. Speaker, low growth in productivity
implies low growth in gross domestic product; and low growth in gross domestic product
points towards low growth in living standards.
Therefore, Mr. Speaker, the strategic focus of the Jamaica Productivity Centre (JPC)
during this fiscal year will be primarily on influencing behavioural change through the
provision of technical capacity (skills) building and customized productivity solutions to
private and public sector entities.
The Centre believes that inculcating a productivity culture in students across the country
will allow them to become efficient and effective in their learning pursuits, while at the
same time spreading the productivity message. In this regard, the “Be Productive and
Prosper” Campaign in Schools will be expanded.
The Productivity Centre will also target micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs)
and provide them with productivity audits, benchmarking information and assistance to
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implement recommendations. The Centre will conduct island-wide training and
workshops to facilitate knowledge sharing among persons in the sector. These
interventions are expected to positively impact profitability, competitiveness, economic
growth, job creation and wage rates.
Mr. Speaker, University of Princeton economics Professor Paul Krugman, articulated the
transformational attributes of productivity very well when he stated that “Productivity
isn’t everything, but in the long-run it is almost everything”. Therefore, every Jamaican
must make it a habit to produce more goods and services from each unit of input that is at
their disposal. We must develop and spread a culture of high productivity.
Mr Speaker, we are advancing prosperity through improved productivity.
WORKER SAFETY & WELL-BEING
Mr. Speaker, a safe and healthy workforce is critical to productivity and prosperity – and
the Ministry is committed to ensuring that the country‟s workers are adequately protected
from potential hazards in the work environment.
The recent collapse at the Royalton Hotel in Hanover and the fatal accident at the Azul
(Karisma) Hotel construction sites underscore the urgent need for the tabling of the
Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Bill in Parliament this Financial Year.
Mr Speaker, the Occupational Safety and Health Bill will present a paradigm shift as
businesses will be required to establish:
 OSH systems including joint safety and health committees
 Competent safety and health representatives and programs that will ensure active
monitoring and management of risks in our workplaces.
This framework will significantly reduce the occurrences and severity of workplace
accidents throughout Jamaica. In fact, Mr. Speaker, this Bill will be a game changer,
covering all enterprises for safety, including private homes where domestic workers are
employed.
Worker safety and well-being are important ingredients for wealth creation; safe and
healthy workers are the Ministry‟s guarantee towards growth and prosperity.
As we prepare for the new legislation, the Ministry has been actively engaging private
and public sector entities in the Voluntary Compliance Programme thereby facilitating a
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smooth transition to the regulatory requirements that will be binding when the new
OSHA Bill becomes law. Mr. Speaker, the OSH department of the Ministry has also
begun engaging academic institutions to review or revise their training programmes to
ensure that the training provided is relevant and in keeping with the current and new OSH
Bill.
Mr. Speaker, our OSH Department will complete the development of the National
Occupational Safety and Health Policy, as well as the Public Sector Occupational Safety
and Health Policy this financial year.
Hon. Shahine
Robinson
(foreground) leads
the Occupational
Safety & Health
Public Sensitization
Parade, organized by
the Ministry of
Labour & Social
Security as part of
the Activities to
observe Workers
Week in May 2016.
STABLE INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS
Turning to the industrial relations arena, Mr. Speaker, there have not been many
incidences of work stoppages in any sector of the economy to date. Mr Speaker this did
not happen by chance – and is due mainly to the dedicated work of the Industrial
Relations Department in the Ministry which ensures that disputes are settled
expeditiously. The importance of the tripartite partnership through the Labour Advisory
Council (LAC) in this process must also be highlighted.
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Mr Speaker, the Ministry has been receiving more “individual worker” complaints - i.e.
workers who were/are not represented by a Trade Union – and we are working
assiduously to have these disputes settled in a timely manner to avoid protracted
downtime or escalation.
In 2015/16, Mr. Speaker, the Ministry received 4,123 formal complaints through the Pay
and Conditions of Employment Branch of the Ministry. We are committed to capacity
building and succession planning, and continue to upgrade the knowledge base to meet
the demands of the public. In July 2016, the Ministry, in collaboration with the ILO, will
embark on a training programme for 30 mediation/conciliators drawn from across the
Ministry.
From left, Mrs . Dione
Jennings, Chief
Technical Director
(Social Security); Mrs.
Colette Roberts Risden,
Permanent Secretary;
Mr. Grantley
Stephenson, Chief
Executive Officer of
Kingston Wharves; Mr.
Condell Stephenson,
Chairman of the Joint
Industrial Council, and
Honourable Shahine
Robinson, during a tour
of Port Bustamante
(including Kingston
Container Terminal and
Kingston Wharves
Limited) in May 2016.
EXPANDING THE IDT
Mr. Speaker, the enactment of the Disabilities Act, the Amendment of the Jury Act, and
the anticipated passage of the OSH legislation during this financial year, mean that the
Industrial Disputes Tribunal must be strengthened. The number of panels to treat with the
various types of disputes will be increased and the Ministry will expedite the expansion
of the IDT outside of Kingston.
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I assure you – and the country - Mr. Speaker, that the Ministry will continue to ensure a
stable industrial environment conducive for Labour and Capital to facilitate economic
growth for the country.
Mr Speaker, the Ministry is advancing prosperity through the protection of workers
and compliance with our labour laws.
EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES UNIT
Mr. Speaker, private employment agencies play a vital role in facilitating the placement
of thousands of Jamaicans in viable employment opportunities. Most of them act within
the provisions of the law, and an up-to-date list of compliant operators is available on the
Ministry‟s website.
But, Mr. Speaker, there are unscrupulous agencies and persons out there who take
advantage of vulnerable job seekers. The Employment Agencies Unit is working to
enforce the Employment Agencies Regulations Act and to apply punitive sanctions where
regulations are breached.
Mr Speaker, The Employment Agencies Act is currently being reviewed to ensure that it
is relevant and take into account new recruitment practices.
PROTECTION OF VICTIMS AND LABOUR AND SOCIAL SECURITY
PROGRAMMES FROM HUMAN TRAFFICKING
Mr. Speaker, I note with interest and satisfaction two most recent convictions of persons
for human trafficking offences. Human trafficking is a scourge that all Ministries,
Departments and Agencies must collectively take steps to detect, prevent, and support the
prosecutorial process when called upon to do so.
Let me state, Mr. Speaker, that this Ministry is actively engaged in the fight against
human trafficking through the steps taken to ensure that the programmes and systems we
monitor and regulate are not exploited by human traffickers.
Mr. Speaker, victims of human trafficking oftentimes are persons who are seeking work
and opportunities to advance themselves and their families in a foreign country. Since
April 2016, the Ministry, with the support of the International Organization for Migration
(IOM), has begun training labour inspectors, investigators and social workers to improve
their capacity to identify instances or cases of human trafficking.
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Mr. Speaker, in order to ensure sustainability, the Ministry is finalising Standard
Operating Procedures to guide our labour inspectors and social workers to be able to
identify victims of forced labour and sex trafficking including children.
Hon. Shahine Robinson,
Minister of Labour &
Social Security (right),
with Director General of
the International Labour
Organization (ILO), Mr.
Guy Ryder following a
meeting of CARICOM
Ministers of Labour in
June 2016 at the 105th
Assembly of the ILO
International Labour
Conference in Geneva,
Switzerland.
CHILD LABOUR
Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the International Labour Organization (ILO) for the
technical assistance and support being provided to enable the country to fight child
labour. In 2015, workshops were held to discuss strategies and methodologies to improve
data collection on child labour in Jamaica.
I am pleased to report that the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) is now in the
field collecting data for the 2nd National Child Labour Survey. The findings of this study,
which will greatly improve our data and understanding on the status of child labour in
Jamaica, will be ready by the end of this year.
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Mr. Speaker, Jamaica continues to say no to child labour and in particular its worst forms
wherever it is found. This year, we joined with the rest of the world to mark, World Day
Against Child Labour under the theme “End Child Labour In Supply Chain: It’s
Everyone’s Business”.
The Ministry on Sunday (June 26th) undertook a child labour community forum in
partnership with the Miracle Youth Club in Trench Town, and a business seminar in
collaboration with the Jamaica Employers Federation will be held tomorrow (June 29th).
Please allow me to reiterate once again that while, Jamaican businesses may not be
openly engaged in the abuse of our children‟s rights, I impress upon them the need to be
vigilant to ensure that their supply chains and business processes are child-labour free.
Mr Speaker, Child labour is unacceptable. It robs a child of their education and full
development, and causes physical and mental harm. It jeopardises a child‟s moral
wellbeing and their economic prospect for the future. The Ministry – and Jamaica – will
continue to combat child labour in the quest for economic prosperity. Mr Speaker, we
will advance prosperity for a Jamaica that is free of child labour.
SOCIAL PROTECTION FLOOR
Mr. Speaker, I turn now to the all-important social protection provisions under the
Ministry of Labour and Social Security.
Social Protection is undoubtedly a critical policy for transformation and national
development, as it promotes human capital development and productivity, reduces
poverty, exclusion, and inequality – while enhancing growth, inclusive development and
social cohesion.
As a Government and a Ministry, we are prioritizing the allocation of resources on social
programmes to ensure that it is not eroded by inflation. For Financial Year 2015/2016,
the total allocation across government to support social spending was in the region of
$27B. For the 2016/2017 fiscal year, the provision to support social spending has
increased to approximately $29B.
Of this amount, Mr. Speaker, the budget for the provision of safety nets through this
Ministry has increased by 9% to $6.5B for the 2016/2017 financial year. This will go a
far way in consolidating the gains we have made so far in tackling poverty and
advancing prosperity through social protection.
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Mr. Speaker, as a country we must have consensus on the minimum guaranteed level of
social provision for the most poor and vulnerable. A Social Protection Floor is currently
being developed through the Planning Institute of Jamaica and we look forward to the
substantive recommendations that will be sent to Cabinet by the end of the fiscal year.
HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT
Mr. Speaker, we must streamline our services, reduce duplication and become more
client focused. This year, the Ministry will provide an integrated package of social
services for approximately 2,500 families on PATH. To achieve greater impact, financial
assistance along with more targeted and streamlined interventions to get families out of
poverty will be provided.
Mr. Speaker, the package of social services will increase access to:
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Housing solution in collaboration with Food for the Poor,
Continuing education and skills development,
Tertiary education,
Career counselling, job readiness preparation and employment opportunities
Business development training and appropriate financial assistance for viable
ventures.
With this enabling framework, Mr. Speaker, this Government will embrace every
opportunity to move poor and vulnerable families from dependence to self-reliance and
sustainable livelihoods.
It will take time, Mr. Speaker; transitioning out of poverty is not a “one size fit all”
approach. But we will be persistent; we will build the resilience of poor families and we
will truly break the inter-generational cycle of poverty. Mr Speaker, we are on a PATH
to prosperity through social protection.
TACKLING NON-COMPLIANCE
Mr. Speaker, I am concerned - and all Jamaicans should be – about the increase in noncompliance with school attendance as required under the Programme of Advancement
Through Health and Education (PATH), particularly among primary school students.
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Mr. Speaker, at the primary level, attendance has fallen to a low of 78% for boys and
83% for girls. This means that 22% of boys and 17% girls do not meet the mandatory
attendance requirement of 85% - and this is not good news for the growth and prosperity
agenda we are pursuing.
I take this opportunity to beseech parents and guardians not to obstruct or impede the
life chances of their children. Please send your children to school. Children who have
the opportunity to learn are eventually able to earn more and support their own
families and contribute to national development.
The Ministry of Labour and Social Security will be engaging the Ministry of Education,
Youth and Information to address the issue of non-attendance. Specially selected PATH
families with children 2-6 years old will attend pilot parenting workshops in Clarendon,
St. James, St. Thomas, Hanover, Portland and Kingston and St. Andrew. Some 600
families will participate over a period of nine months, and additional families will be
included later.
Mr. Speaker, the Ministry will be using education to create pathways out of poverty
that support and prepare individuals for economic independence and prosperity. We
will support our vulnerable children at every stage of the educational journey – primary,
secondary and tertiary levels.
Honourable Shahine Robinson (left) and Portland Parish Manager, Mr.
Maxwell Hamilton (2nd left) hand out emergency relief supplies to residents
in Portland in June 2016.
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SOCIAL INTERVENTION PROGRAMMES
Mr. Speaker, the Ministry will advance job training, educational/skills training and
entrepreneurship support for young people in the Steps-To-Work and Social Intervention
Programmes as we empower the country‟s youth and prepare them for the world of work
and economic independence.
For the financial year 2015-2016, Mr. Speaker, a total of 556 youths were assisted under
the Social Intervention Programme (SIP), in short-term employment (six months) with
various private and public sector companies and allowed to gain valuable experience as
well as earn an income.
In the area of Entrepreneurial Assistance, in 2015/ 16, a total of 511 persons were
approved to receive grants totalling J$26.4 million to support a variety of incomegenerating ventures through the SIP and Steps to Work Programmes. For the 2016/ 17
financial year J$57.5 million will be provided to assist 815 persons in this area.
Mr. Speaker, the Ministry continues to be deeply indebted to those private and public
sector entities who participate and collaborate with the Ministry to lift vulnerable young
persons from a state of welfare into productive employment.
Mr Speaker, we are advancing prosperity through entrepreneurship.
MIS SYSTEMS
Mr Speaker, the Ministry will continue the strategic modernization of social security
services with the implementation of a document and client management system to
facilitate efficient storage and tracking of client information and improved delivery in
service response.
Already, a robust Beneficiary Management Information System is in place for PATH;
Steps to Work and the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities - and these systems
will be enhanced during 2016/2017, while a new one is being developed for the National
Insurance Scheme (NIS).
NATIONAL INSURANCE SCHEME
This year marks the 50th Anniversary for the National Insurance Scheme (NIS). Mr.
Speaker, today I salute the late Lynden G. Newland for his vision and foresight in
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creating the NIS in 1966. I remember as a child it was referred to as SIN. Today, it
represents the main source of social protection for many Jamaicans during retirement. In
fact, during the 2015/2016 financial year, over 109,000 persons received benefits totaling
over $15.4B.
As we celebrate this historic milestone, we recognize that the mandate going forward is
three-fold – viability, efficiency and service.
VIABILITY - The most recent Actuarial Review indicates that the funds of the NIS are
at risk of being exhausted by 2033, if regenerative measures are not taken now. Mr.
Speaker, this is a matter that is being given serious attention. A Reform Committee
(comprised of representatives from the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and the
Ministry of Finance) is examining the recommendations of the Actuaries - and I
anticipate the first delivery of their deliberations by the third quarter of this year.
Stakeholder engagement will be a part of the process as we seek to continue partnership
in the pursuit of prosperity.
EFFICIENCY & SERVICE - Mr. Speaker, it is important that I acknowledge, as
Minister, the plethora of complaints being leveled about the inefficiency of the NIS. I
assure the people of Jamaica that your concerns are noted. Activities have already
commenced to modernize its operations, including:
 New software to significantly reduce the time for processing applications for
benefits. The modular roll-out of this software has already begun and should be
completed within this financial year.
 Modern payment modalities for both local and overseas-based pensioners, for
which work has already commenced.
Organizational review of the Social Security Division and other operations in order to
ensure proper alignment, greater efficiency and a proactive NIS – with its concomitant
role in the growth process.
Prayers are offered for the
ministry team at the National
Insurance Scheme (NIS) 50th
Anniversary Church Service at
the Portmore New Testament
Church of God in St. Catherine.
From left are Lennox Elvy, NIF
Board Chairman; Mrs. Audrey
Deer- Williams, Senior Dir. of
National Investment Fund; Hon.
Shahine Robinson, Minister of
Labour and Social Security,;
Mrs. Colette Roberts Risden,
Permanent Secretary and Ms.
Portia Magnus, Director of the
National Insurance Scheme.
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NATIONAL INSURANCE FUND (NIF)
The cumulative asset of the National Insurance Fund (NIF) at the end of the last financial
year, Mr. Speaker, was $80.6 billion - reflecting an increase of approximately $9.1 billion
over the previous period. The NIF prudently invests and monitors NIS contributions for
the benefit of beneficiaries.
The Fund is invested in several sectors of the economy and is playing a major role in the
growth agenda and wealth creation. The Fund is also participating in the foreign equities
market – and, as a prudent investment strategy, has already begun to see real returns.
Total investment income, amounted to approximately $11 billion and included dividend
inflows of $638 million and property rental inflows of $241 million.
Our latest major local project has been the refurbishment of the Braco property at a cost
of US$23 million. I am happy to report that the refurbishment is complete and the 232room hotel located in Telawny is now in operation.
The NIF will continue work on several programmes, including the upgrading of Parish
Offices across the island so that pensioners and other stakeholders can be provided with
quality service. The Fund will also be making changes to the rule governing loan funds
that are made available through Preferred Financial Institutions (PFI‟s) to small and
Medium Sized (SME) enterprises. Mr Speaker, if we are to grow the economy, small
businesses must have access to capital. We are advancing prosperity for Small and
Medium Sized (SME) enterprises through the NIF.
A new National Insurance Board has been appointed and we thank the Team - led by Mr.
Lennox Elvy - who has consented to serve. I use this opportunity to express my deep
appreciation to the outgoing Board led by Chairman, Mr Ralston Hyman, under whose
tenure the Fund attained and maintained reasonable growth.
Within the context of the Prosperity Agenda, the new Board will be undertaking a review
of all existing projects of the fund and, where necessary, will reassess or reposition so
that they can contribute in a more meaningful way to economic growth and job creation.
INTEGRATING PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
As I turn to the disability agenda, Mr. Speaker, I reiterate our commitment to inclusion,
integration and empowerment for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and their potential
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for growth and development – and state that this financial year, there will be a special
focus on these constituents.
A simplified version of the 2014 Disabilities Act, both in print and braille, to be used for
public education and sensitisation will be published shortly. Mr. Speaker, it is our
mission for persons with disabilities to be aware of their rights as Jamaican citizens.
To date, 30,142 persons have been entered into our new registration system. Section 6 (E)
of the Disabilities Act mandates the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities
(JCPD) to prepare Codes of Practice for the avoidance of discrimination on the grounds
of a person‟s disability. Mr. Speaker, with the support of a World Bank grant, this year
we will develop two primary Codes of Practice namely; Education and Training and
Employment.
An additional 340 persons with disabilities under PATH will benefit from skills training
and employment opportunities provided in collaboration with the Abilities Foundation
and five other non-governmental organizations. Provision of assistive and adaptive aids
will continue for children with disabilities, along with increased physiotherapy and
speech therapy sessions. Parents of these children will also benefit from parenting
workshops to enhance their coping skills.
Mr. Speaker, we have begun planning the co-operation between the Ministry and the
Inter-American Network for Labor Administration (RIAL), which recently selected
Technical Officers from JCPD and the Ministry to travel for an on-site visit to the
Department of Labour in the United States for an understanding about disability
legislation and enforcement in preparation for the establishment of a Disabilities Rights
Tribunal.
EARLY STIMULATION
As we are aware, access to education is one of the major impediments faced by children
with disabilities and depending on the nature of the disability, it limits their opportunities
to participate in the labour market as adults. The Early Stimulation Programme in the
Ministry provides early intervention services to children with disabilities age 0-6 years, to
maximise their educational potential.
The construction of a new building for early assessment of children with disabilities at
Hanover Street will be completed and the construction of additional classroom space at
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the Early Stimulation Plus Early Childhood Facility at Ostend Avenue in East Kingston
will begin this year. The completion of these two facilities will transform the lives of
over 1,800 children with disabilities who are served by the programme.
Mr. Speaker, I use this opportunity to highlight the private sector‟s contribution to the
development of the ESP, noting the magnanimous example of the Digicel Foundation in
the construction of a centre for ESP services in Portland - the only of its kind outside of
Kingston. I am looking forward to the day when we will have at least one in every parish
- and in this regard we welcome new partners from private sectors in this initiative.
Hon. Shahine
Robinson, Minister of
Labour & Social
Security (seared left),
Mrs. Jean LowrieChin, Chairman of
the Digicel
Foundation (right),
and Special
Olympian, Alphonso
Cunningham (2nd
right) engage a
student at the Early
Stimulation Centre of
Excellence in
Portland at the
formal opening
ceremony in April
2016
SENIOR CITIZENS
Mr. Speaker, our seniors are a most valuable asset for nation building. To quote a great
leader of his time, Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The true measure of any society can be
found in how it treats its most vulnerable members”. This year, in an effort to ensure
that the legal and socio-economic framework are in place to protect and improve the
quality of life for older persons, the 1997 National Policy for Senior Citizens will be
revised.
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MEDICAL FACILITY AT GOLDEN AGE HOME (GAH)
Mr. Speaker, residents of the Vineyard Town Golden Age Home will benefit from
improved Medical and Wellness Services with the renovation of six (6) buildings at
Cluster B to function as a Medical Centre. This will facilitate a Nursing Department,
Doctor‟s Office and Medical Registry, Examination rooms, Dressing Units, Treatment
Rooms, Physiotherapy Unit, Dental Unit and Staff Room for Nurses .
Improved levels of physiotherapy services will also be offered through the engagement of
UWI School of Physical Therapy in providing additional services to residents, while
partnership has been forged with the UWI School of Dentistry to provide Residents with
Dental Services (cleaning, fitting of dentures, extraction, etc.).
Mr. Speaker, the Golden Age Home - with its long-term vision of holistic development of
the aged and the infirmed - is a crucial plank in the provision of social services, and the
necessary support must be given to allow it to remain relevant.
Hon. Shahine
Robinson greets
members of the
Recycled
Teenagers dance
group at the
Media launch of
the 40th
Anniversary of
the National
Council for
Senior Citizens
DISASTER RELIEF RESPONSE
Mr. Speaker, last, but by no means least, is the vitally important support the Ministry
offers in the area of disaster relief and rehabilitation. The Ministry continues to lead the
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damage assessment process in times of disasters and provide well-needed short-term
assistance.
The Ministry will be benefitting from the World Bank Group‟s Social Protection and
Labour Global Practice to carry out activities under a Trust Fund Grant to support the
Government of Jamaica Social Protection system for disaster preparedness and response.
CONCLUSION
In concluding, Mr, Speaker, it was necessary for me to comprehensively underscore the
multi-faceted ways in which the Ministry of Labour and Social Security continues to
impact the lives of Jamaicans, and influence the process of nation-building and
sustainable economic development.
The various separate, yet inter-connected initiatives and services we offer seek to
enhance, integrate and empower Jamaicans in areas of employment facilitation; labour
market reform; education, skills training, research and market intelligence; productivity
solutions; decent work, safety and health; industrial relations stability; combating human
trafficking and child labour; sustainable human capital development; pension and social
provisions; and assistance and support to the most vulnerable including the elderly and
persons with disabilities.
Mr. Speaker, the Ministry aims to continue this holistic mission, knowing that focused
labour market policies and sustainable social security provisions for the vulnerable are
important catalysts for National Growth and Prosperity. We continue to work with our
social and tripartite partners in this mission.
I have overwhelming confidence in the leadership of this Administration and that, as a
country, we will enhance and empower Jamaicans to grasp the opportunities that await us
both locally and in the global economy.
As Minister, I pledge my unwavering commitment and that of the Ministry of Labour and
Social Security to promoting decent work and social protection and to the long-term
vision of transforming Jamaica into the “place of choice to live, work, raise families and
do business”.
Mr Speaker, we will “Advance Prosperity through Labour and Social Protection”.
I thank you.
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NOTES
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