No tracking number for PATH beneficiaries as of October

THE EDITOR, Madam:

THIS IS in response to a letter to the editor published in The Gleaner dated August 26, 2020, titled ‘Treat PATH beneficiaries better’. The Ministry of Labour and Social Security takes the issue of COVID-19 and the need for social distance very seriously. As part of our response, beneficiaries, over a three-week period, are paid using an alphabetical system, which must be strictly adhered to. It was never intended at any time for there to be overcrowding at our Harbour Street office.

PATH payments are made through four modalities: Cheques, Cash Cards, Paymaster and Bill Express. Beneficiaries who collect their payments through Paymaster do not need a tracking number, and this has been so since the June payment.

However, of the 120,000 families that receive bimonthly payments, only 3,000 collect their payment through Bill Express. Bill Express uses a tracking number as a security feature.

The ministry has been publicising the collection of PATH payments through mass media platforms such as print, radio and social media. Beneficiaries who collect their payments through Bill Express are sent an SMS text message with their tracking number, so there is no need for them to visit our offices.

The ministry is, however, pleased to tell our PATH beneficiaries that as of the next payment period for October 2020, tracking numbers will no longer be required for accessing payments.

Given the recent spike in the number of positive COVID-19 cases, we continue to emphasise how absolutely important it is for our beneficiaries to observe the established protocols – wear your masks, sanitise and wash your hands as often as possible, keep your distance from other persons as much as possible, and stay at home if you suspect that you are not well.

For further information concerning PATH, persons can contact our office at 876-9228506/7, 876-922-8000/9 or visit our website at https://www.mlss. gov.jm.

COLLETTE ROBERTS RISDEN Permanent Secretary Ministry of Labour and Social Security