Chinese-operated garage allowed to reopen after Government gives green light
/ Our Today
administrator
The Ministry of Labour and Social Security states that it has concluded an extensive labour law compliance investigation regarding Whole-Hearted Car Services Limited, a low-cost, Chinese-operated repair garage located at Ferry Pen.
The company, which straddles the border of St Andrew and St Catherine, was ordered closed in May after the ministry flagged “potential breaches” concerning work permits for foreign nationals, among other issues.
In a statement on Sunday (June 15), the ministry advised that as part of the resolution, the Ferry-based garage has agreed to implement the following measures:
- Enrolling all employees in the HEART/NSTA Trust programme to acquire their Prior Learning Certificate.
- Establish a structured apprenticeship programme through the Jamaica German Automotive School (JAGAS) in collaboration with HEART/NSTA Trust.
- Allow HEART/NSTA Trust/JAGAS instructors to understudy the auto mechanics’ operation to ensure knowledge transfer and skills development.
- Submit a list of all Jamaican workers, including their names, wages, and positions, along with copies of their fully endorsed employment contracts to the ministry within three months of reopening the garage.
The ministry further stated that to ensure that these measures are instituted, it will “continue to monitor implementation of the agreed-upon measures, conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance, and provide support and guidance to Whole-Hearted Car Services Limited and other businesses to promote fair employment practices”.
Labour Minister Pearnel Charles Jnr. maintained that the Government “welcomes foreign talent but emphasises the importance of compliance with labour laws”.
“We are committed to enforcing regulations and protecting the rights of workers. We will continue to work with the relevant agencies to ensure fair employment practices and prevent exploitation.”
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