KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Ministry of Labour and Social Safety has launched a proper investigation into whether or not 10 Chinese language mechanics employed at WH Automobile Service in Ferry Pen are in possession of legitimate work permits, following rising public concern about their employment standing.
The auto restore store, which has been operational for simply two months, has gained fast recognition within the space straddling the St Andrew-St Catherine border. Nonetheless, questions have arisen over whether or not the Chinese language nationals working there are legally employed below Jamaican labour legal guidelines.
Labour Minister Pearnel Charles Jr confirmed the investigation, stating that it goals to make sure compliance with all authorized and regulatory necessities, together with legitimate work permits and correct employment documentation.
“A complete investigation is presently below strategy to decide whether or not all authorized and regulatory necessities have been glad,” Minister Charles stated. “The ministry is working in full coordination with the related companies to confirm the information and make sure that all relevant legal guidelines are upheld.”
He emphasised that whereas particulars of the probe stay confidential because of its ongoing nature, the ministry is dedicated to transparency, due course of, and the safety of each overseas staff’ rights and the integrity of Jamaica’s labour market.
Beneath the Overseas Nationals and Commonwealth Residents (Employment) Act, all overseas nationals should safe a sound work allow earlier than participating in employment in Jamaica. Employers who rent overseas nationals with out authorization could face fines of as much as $500,000 and/or imprisonment of as much as six months.
Minister Charles reaffirmed that work permits are granted solely when specialised expertise will not be available inside the Jamaican workforce, in line with the ministry’s broader efforts to align labour practices with nationwide improvement objectives.
Earlier this 12 months, the minister introduced ongoing reforms below a brand new initiative known as Operation Streamline, designed to overtake the prevailing work allow system. A brand new web-based and mobile-friendly work allow administration platform is being developed to enhance effectivity, compliance, and transparency. Consumer testing for the brand new system started in March.
A Work Allow Oversight Committee has additionally been established to make sure larger accountability within the approval course of, with choices guided by labour market intelligence, talent gaps, and coaching wants.
In accordance with the 2023 Financial and Social Survey of Jamaica, the Ministry of Labour authorized 4,783 work permits final 12 months—a 22.1 % improve over 2022. Chinese language nationals obtained the best variety of permits at 1,817, adopted by Indian nationals (726) and Mexicans (396). Nearly all of work permits had been issued for roles in wholesale and retail commerce, motorized vehicle repairs, building, and meals companies.
Minister Charles has pledged to replace the general public as soon as the investigation into WH Automobile Service is full and findings are formally reviewed.
