Employers Urged to Help Promote Decent Work

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr. is calling on employers to play their part in making decent work a reality for everyone. 

He said that while the Ministry will continue to improve the country’s labour laws to provide better protection of workers and facilitate training, it is important for employers to create environments that are safe and conducive for productivity. 

“We ask our employers to ensure that you play your part for decent work, where we will be able to tackle all of the challenges, and we can only do so if we work together,” he said. 

Minister Charles Jr. was delivering the keynote address at the National Workers’ Week 2024 Expo held on  Wednesday (May 22) at Emancipation Park in St. Andrew. 

The International Labour Organization (ILO) defines decent work as “productive work for women and men in conditions of freedom, equity, security and human dignity”. 

 It involves opportunities for work that is productive and pays a fair income; provides security in the workplace; social protection for all; prospects for personal development and social integration; freedom for people to organise, express their concerns and participate in the decisions that affect their lives, and equality of opportunity and treatment. 

Minister Charles Jr. said the mission of the Ministry is to help unlock the potential of all workers and collaborate with trade unions and employers to safeguard their welfare. 

“We must be steadfast in our commitment to protect and promote the rights of our workers. We must also invest in educational systems that prepare our young people for the future and for the jobs of tomorrow, while we provide continuous training opportunities for our workforce,” he pointed out. 

The expo was part of the activities for National Workers’ Week from May 17 to 23 under the theme ‘Recognising Abilities: Fostering Greater Inclusion for Our Workers’.  

It featured an official opening ceremony and an exhibition of products and services from various private and public-sector entities. 

Minister Charles Jr. said National Workers Week honours the legacy of persons who stood up for the rights of workers, fought to ensure that the current workforce is valued, and also acknowledges the strength and talents that each worker brings to the table.