Grange Pledges Support to Jamaica Federation of Musicians and Affiliates Union

The Honourable Olivia Grange, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, says she is “happy the Jamaica Federation of Musicians and Affiliates Union has been resuscitated.”

“I’m happy the union is back on track. Government can now assist the Union to ensure that the industry is properly organised,” Minister Grange said.

The Minister’s comments were made during a recent meeting with Karen Smith, President of the Jamaica Federation of Musicians and Affiliates Union and other members of the executive.

The Union resumed operations in June 2017 after being dormant for many years. Its aims and objectives are the promotion of live music, the improvement of musical talent, working conditions, establishing and maintaining uniform and fair prices for musicians and artistes’ services as well as protecting the interests of all its affiliates

Minister Grange also pointed out that the Ministry will partner with the union to build capacity and assist in getting training for its members. The entertainment registry and an insurance plan for the industry were also among the matters discussed.

“I think the future looks well since there is now a structured approach to developing the industry, to protecting the creative industries, particularly in the area of music, and to ensuring that we are able to harness whatever revenue we can to assist the economic growth of the country,” the Minister said.

Miss Smith said she was pleased to have met with the Minister and looks forward to working with the Ministry.