Gov't to mark 80th anniversary of workers' protests, Labour Department

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the 1938 labour protests and the establishment of the Labour Department during Workers' Week from May 14 to 23.The week, which includes Labour Day activities, was launched at the Office of the Prime Minister last week.

Portfolio Minister Shahine Robinson said that Workers' Week, under the theme 'Preserving Our Legacy

... Unfolding Progress', is dedicated to honouring the persons who participated in and paid the ultimate sacrifice in the 1938 labour uprising.

She noted that the protests symbolised the birth of collective efforts towards better working conditions and higher wages.

She argued that "Jamaica would not be where we are today without the strong display of fortitude, resilience, and devotion of these workers".

Robinson said that the Labour Department's achievements would also be highlighted during the week.

"We want to include the contributions made by former labour ministers as we believe their contributions to nation building must be recognised," she added.

Various Activities

Highlighting activities for the week, Robinson said that the ministry would be collaborating with its partners to host public for a on several topics, including 'The Modern Day Labour Movement', 'Reparations', and 'Productivity'.

Commemorative ceremonies will be held at the Workers' Monument at the waterfront, downtown Kingston, site of the 1938 riots, as well as the Workers' Park in Westmoreland.

"These sites reflect our historical and cultural identity as a people, and as a Government, we will continue to celebrate the legacy with a floral tribute and beautification to reflect the pride and honour ... they deserve," Robinson pointed out.

Workers' Week will culminate on Labour Day, Wednesday, May 23, which will be observed under the theme 'Ramp It Up ... Fix It Up'.

Activities will focus on constructing ramps in schools to enable physically challenged persons to access these buildings and on installing additional facilities at health centres to enhance the environment for medical staff and clients.

The St Ann's Bay Infant School in St Ann and the Cumberland Health Centre in St Catherine are the national projects.