Janice Rymer (right) will be taking up the post of Labour Commissioner in the New Year while Oleanvine Maynard will take a post in the Ministry for Natural Resources and Labour.

This was announced by Minister for Natural Resources and Labour Dr. Kedrick Pickering at the 2nd Sitting of the 2nd House of Assembly (HOA), today December 19, 2011.

Dr. Pickering also said the issuance of new work permits will be reviewed and the granting of work permit exemptions will be revisited in 2012,

“The Labour Department will be restructured for greater efficiency, which translates to the reassignment of the Deputy Secretary [Janice Rymer] in the Ministry to the Labour Commissioner post and Labour Commissioner [Oleanvine Maynard] to the Ministry,” the Minister said.

He added granting work permits exemption, particularly those based on the Minister’s discretion, will be reviewed and the Ministry will be fulfilling its obligations to the International Labour Organisation (ILO) by way of annual reporting.

Just recently, the Ministry hosted a workshop that was facilitated by ILO officials.

Furthermore, beginning January 12, 2012 Town Hall meetings will be held throughout the Territory to discuss labour and immigration matters affecting residents.
“We hope with this initiative, we will have a clearer understanding of the needs and challenges that are faced by residents who are otherwise unable to reach Government officials,” Minister Pickering added.

The Town Hall meetings will conclude by the first quarter of 2012.