Cabinet has approved the introduction of the unemployment insurance benefit, which will be added to the suite of provisions under the National Insurance Scheme (NIS). The new benefit will serve as a guaranteed safety net for all employees who contribute to the NIS, except for self-employed persons. Additionally, work is under way to establish the requisite legal and institutional frameworks...

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security is partnering with the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) to conduct a national census to gain accurate data on the population and location of persons with disabilities. Portfolio Minister, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., made the announcement during his contribution to the 2025/26 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on Tuesday (May 13)....

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., has announced an increase in benefits for all National Insurance Scheme (NIS) pensioners. The Minister, in his contribution to the 2025/26 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on Tuesday (May 13), informed that retirement (old age), widows, widowers, invalidity pension will move from $4,200 to $4,620 per week. Pensioners,...

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., is encouraging parents to teach their children about responsible use of social media to better equip them to safely navigate their way through the digital space. Noting that social media has many positives, including providing access to educational resources to enhance learning,  he said that when used  inappropriately “it is...

Students at the secondary and tertiary levels are being encouraged to take advantage of support available under the Ministry of Labour and Social Security for employment, entrepreneurship or to pursue further studies. Portfolio Minister, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr. said there are a range of interventions for vulnerable students, including internships, education and entrepreneurship grants, as wells as the Steps-to-Work programme...

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., on Monday (April 28), emphasised the importance of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technology and innovation to boost efficiency and productivity, while ensuring workplace safety and health. He was speaking during a visit of the Grace Food Processors (GFP) Canning Division (NALCAN) on Twickenham Close in Kingston, as part of the...

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security is encouraging Jamaicans in rural or remote areas to utilise its satellite offices, which make the Ministry’s wide range of services more accessible in these communities. Portfolio Minister, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., and State Minister, Dr. the Hon. Norman Dunn, toured one of the offices, situated at the Castleton Health Centre in St....