Labour Ministry to Play Critical Role in Growth Agenda – Dr. Ferguson

Labour and Social Security Minister, Hon. Dr. Fenton Ferguson, says under his leadership, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security will play an even more critical role in Jamaica’s growth agenda.

The Minister, who recently assumed leadership of the Ministry, was addressing members of staff during a familiarization tour of the Ministry’s offices in Falmouth, Trelawny,   on December 11.

“My expectation is that the Ministry must be seen by my own colleagues and the Cabinet of Jamaica as a critical part of the growth agenda. We must be seen as the Ministry  leading  labour market reform,” he said.

Dr. Ferguson said that  part of his mission is to ensure that the Ministry is seen for more than the role it plays in providing farm work for Jamaicans and more for pushing the agenda of Jamaica’s Vision 2030  and working with international organizations to uplift the nation’s workforce.

The Minister  also noted that  under the new dispensation,  matters relating to  social protection have been placed high on the agenda of the Ministry.

“We see social protection as an integral part of labour market reform. You as workers are critical to the achievement of those laudable objectives and recommendations when they come before us,” he  told the staff.

The Minister  said  that a contract  has been  signed for an additional US$50 million  to be pumped into the PATH programme, which places great importance on  reaching persons who need assistance.

After touring the Falmouth offices,  Dr. Ferguson expressed satisfaction with the condition of the facilities and congratulated officials of the Ministry, under the then leadership of  Hon. Derrick Kellier, for their vision in improving the condition of the building.

The Minister is expected to undertake familiarization tours of all the Ministry’s parish offices in upcoming months.