80TH Anniversary of the Labour Department in Jamaica

The labour movement in Jamaica has played an integral role in the creation of a workforce that has driven the country’s development and growth over the last eight decades. In this context, the theme for this year’s Worker’s Week: “Preserving our Legacy, Unfolding Progress”, takes on significant relevance.

The celebration of this significant milestone provides us with the opportunity to once again honour the remarkable contribution of the workers of Jamaica to national development. It was the collective protest of the Jamaican workers against the dreadful economic and social conditions of a colonial society, which set the stage for the emergence of organized trade unions, and set the foundations for the political structure which led Jamaica’s Independence in 1962. Had it not been for the establishment of the Labour Department in 1938, these accomplishments may not have been possible.

Jamaica’s survival and performance in today’s global economy continue to rest on the shoulders of our workers. Every day, thousands of Jamaican workers across a range of sectors: in Agriculture; Tourism; Healthcare; Manufacturing; Entertainment; Logistics and Financial Services, keep Jamaica functioning. Without our workers and their efforts we would not exist as a viable country and a vibrant society.

As the country celebrates Workers’ Week, Let me therefore encourage my fellow Jamaicans to come together and celebrate the contribution of the workers to the building of a modern Jamaica. Let us also recommit ourselves to the protection and extension of worker’s rights. Our future as a country will depend on the creation of equal opportunities to all Jamaicans.

With this in mind, let us rededicate ourselves to the historic objectives of the Labour Movement, which is to build a Jamaica that works for all its people.

Congratulations on your 80th Anniversary and I wish for you continued success.