The Ministry of National Security says as of December the islands security guards will be able to access private health insurance through a contributory scheme signed by Government.
Below is the full release from the Ministry of National Security, Nov. 10:
The Ministry of National Security through the Private Security Regulation Authority (PSRA), today launched a self-contributory health insurance scheme for private security guards, provided through Guardian Life.
The announcement was made by Minister of National Security, Hon. Robert Montague at a press briefing held at the Ministry’s Oxford Road head office today, November 8, 2016.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Montague highlighted the process that led to this occasion, “I am of the view that the security guard industry is under-appreciated in this country. These 23,000 men and women are a vital part of this nation’s growth agenda. Banks, schools, ministries, airports cannot function without them.
Some guards are certified yet many times we do not give attention to their working conditions. Today is therefore a historic day. Under the scheme, guards at the entry level will be able to access health insurance at a cost of 997 Jamaican dollars per month.”
The self-funded health insurance scheme provided by Guardian Life Insurance, will become effective on December 1, 2016. The scheme also has two other plans as a part of the scheme to cater to all categories of earners within the industry; J$1473 and $2725, respectively.
Executive Director of the PSRA, Roslyn Monteith Campbell reiterated the Minister’s statements. “This is a moment of joy. Though the programme is self contributory, it is a big step and I implore each and every security guard to learn the details of the plan.
Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Guardian Life, Alicia Foster said Guardian Life is delighted to be a part of this important occasion. “The private security industry employs thousands of men and women and we want to ensure that they stay healthy. I applaud the government and the Minister of National Security for taking this bold step for this very important sector.”
The Minister congratulated Guardian Life for its role in the process. In this regard he said, “The scheme is affordable, accessible and underlines the commitment of this government to the people of Jamaica.
Minister Montague also announced the government’s intention to treat with security guards as a special group. “There is now a joint cabinet submission with the Ministry of Labour to treat with the conditions of service for our security guards. We are also looking to establish a National Security Polytechnic where university credits will be attached to the courses that people do within the security apparatus so that these credits can be accumulated to the level of a diploma, associate degree up to the Masters level. We want to put the security guards on a pathway that will lift the industry and the country,” he said.
