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Reports
Kingston Minimart Relocation REPORTS
Our Kingston Minimart has been relocated to 31 Molynes Road, JACISERA Park and is fully operational. We continue to find ways to promote and to make shopping easier for our members. The report will highlight these and several other projects and activities that are a work in progress and that we have already successfully completed. As we move forward into the new administrative year and beyond, we continue to crave your support as we work to achieve our theme for the next 5 years “Persistent and Consistent, Advocating for the Worker: Moving from Surviving to Thriving” HUMAN RESOURCES AND ADMINISTRATION The strategic priorities listed below were the main continued focus for the administrative year as was approved; • Strategic Priority 1: Improved Access to
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JCSA Services • Strategic Priority 2: To optimize Financial
Performance • Strategic Priority 3: To improve operational efficiency and service delivery • Strategic Priority 4: To improve people and performance management for results
The table below outlined our major tasks as it relates to these priorities:
Strategic Priority 1: Improved Access to JCSA Services
Strategic Objec ve 1.1 To improve the JCSA contact with membership through increased visibility
1.1.1 Secretariat Strengthening Major Task Target 2020-2021 Update Owner
Parish Chapter Annual General Mee ngs January 2022 The 14 elected Chapter Chairs had their Annual General Mee ngs 100% completed Admin Coord/GS
Departmental Representa ve Mee ngs February – April 2022
Chapter Mee ngs Chapter quarterly mee ngs Departmental Mee ngs were held to elect Representa ves for a period of two (2) years
Quarterly Regional Chapter Execu ve Mee ngs and Parish Chapter Mee ngs. All were virtual mee ngs. 100% completed Admin. Coord
Strategic Priority 1: Improved Access to JCSA Services
Strategic Objec ve 1.1 To improve the JCSA contact with membership through increased visibility
Strengthen Regional Offices Major Task
The Western Regional office July 2021 The Western Regional Office was staffed with one (1) First Impression Officer and one (1) Office A endant. With the opening of our Mini Mart one (1) Cashier was also employed Admin. Coordinator /GS
Target 2020-2021 Update Owner
Team Members IR Unit
Team Members ‐IR Unit June ‐September 2022 Two (2) addi onal IR Officer to be employed. Admin Coord/GS
Accounts Unit Two Accoun ng Clerks are to be employed: ‐ Accounts Receivables ‐ Accounts Payable February 2022 to June – 2022 Accounts Receivable have been employed Admin Coord/GS
JACISERA Park Employment of Full me Cleaner
Strategic Staffing Plan
Develop & implement the Strategic Staffing Programme Feb 2020 Plan developed GS /Admin Coord.
November 2021 Full me Cleaner was employed Admin Coord/GS
Staffing Matters In keeping with our strategic plan to fully staff our offices with the required personnel the following team members were employed as follows: • Sis. Samantha Taylor – Help Desk Clerk (Secretariat) • Sis. Taneisha Minzie – First Impression
Officer (Western Regional Office) • Sis. Bri- Anna Harvey – Cashier (Western
Regional Office) • Sis. Jennifer Plummer – Office Attendant (Western Regional Office) • Sis. Nichole Johnson – Cleaner
(JACISERA Park) • Bro. Carlos Berry – Accounting Clerk (Secretariat)
Contractual Employment Sis. Dellaceta Drummond was re-engaged as Regional Administrator on a two (2) year fixed term contract with effect January 24, 2022.
Resignation Sis. Christina Parchment, Administrative Assistant tendered her resignation from the Association with effect 31st January 2022. We
thanked Sis. Parchment for her two (2) years of service to this noble organization. We wish for them all the best in their future endeavors.
Covid-19 Pandemic
Five of our team members were tested positive for the coronavirus, thankfully their symptoms were mild, and they were able to resume work in the office after the period of quarantine. The office was deep cleaned, and the necessary precautions were taken to keep safe and comply with the Covid-19 Health and Safety protocols
Congratulations Congratulations to the following team members who were appointed on Staff: • Sis. Samantha Taylor – Help Desk Clerk • Sis. Kadia Green-Blair - Data Entry
Officer • Sis. Taneisha Minzie – First Impression
Officer
Training The following team members were identified and sent on training as follows: • Sis. Denisha Smith – Payroll, Staff
Benefits and Statutory Deductions • Sis. Marilyn Hines – Professional
Certificate in Industrial Relations All thirty-five (35) team members were trained in Customer Service Excellence training hosted by the Customer Service Association of Jamaica & Caribbean Centre for Organizational Excellence Ltd. This was done with a view of enhancing the competencies of our team to provide the necessary service in a professional, efficient, and effective manner to our members.
Staff Retreat A virtual Staff Retreat was held on October 14, 2021, presentations and discussions were aligned to the JCSA Strategic Plan all team members were in attendance and participated fully.
Professional Certificate in Industrial Relations (PCIR) The partnership between the Management Institute for National Development (MIND) and the Jamaica Civil Service Association (JCSA) to provide customized training in Industrial Relations for General Council Members, commenced on October 30, 2020, two (2) cohorts have been trained thus far and the third cohort will depend on the end date for the second group.
Additionally, congratulations to all the successful participants (team members and Departmental Representatives) of the First and Second PCIR Cohort of the customized training for our Delegates and Staff hosted virtually by MIND.
Customer Service Excellence Training Public Sector Modernization Programme The Public Sector Modernization Division within the Office of the Cabinet is in the
process of preparing the guideline documents to support MDAs to implement the Service Excellence Policy.
The policy is designed to provide a comprehensive benchmark against which the current level of service delivery can be assessed and will form the basis for improving the delivery of services.
Chapter Annual General Meeting The Chapter Annual General Meetings were held as scheduled in each parish. The Chapter Chairs presented their reports of activities for the year. The Covid-19 protocols were followed with the stimulated number of persons in the physical face and other members on the virtual platform. Congratulations to all our returning chapter Chairs and Special welcome and congrats to our Newly elected Chapter Chairs: • Sis. Beverly Forbes-Black – St. Ann’s
Bay Chapter • Sis. Peta-Gaye Williams – St. Catherine
Chapter • Sis. Delsie Malcolm - Westmoreland
Chapter Special thanks to Brothers Erlett Findlay, Ramon Downer and Aldon Haughton who did not seek reelection, they have contributed significantly to the membership and to this noble organization and the JCSA expressed its appreciation for work well done and wish for them all the very best.
102nd Annual General Meeting On the 28th of May 2021 the Jamaica Civil Service Association hosted our 102nd AGM meeting and election at JACISERA Park. The meeting was held in accordance with COVID protocols and was streamed online with a small gathering present at JACISERA Park. Election of Officers 2021 The Nomination exercise for the JCSA Election of Officers 2021 took place across the island on April 27, 2021. Arising from that exercise, the Electoral Office of Jamaica declared that a poll had been granted for the position of President and Second Vice President. The poll was taken on Thursday May 13, 2021 in the rural parishes and Friday May 28, 2021 in Kingston & St. Andrew.
The candidates for post of President were Sharon Anderson, Leo Byfield, Gillian Corrodus, Julette DaCosta and O’Neil Grant. Second Vice President candidates were Keisha James, Michael Kerr and Kelvin Thomas.
The elected Officers were O’Neil Grant, returned as President and Kelvin Thomas. as Second Vice President
JCSA Electoral Debates 2021
The Electoral Debate was live streamed via YouTube and zoom on May 21, 2021. Candidates presented their manifestos and expressed their opinions on policies and proposals.
Mr. Michael Kerr withdrew his candidacy.
The questions centered around: – Leadership & Ability to network – Value creation – Service to JCSA at the highest level
– Successes achieved while serving – Personal vision for JCSA – Strengthening the JCSA The results from the debate saw O'Neil Grant and Kelvin Thomas ahead.
General Council Retreat 2021 Our Annual General Council Retreat was held on June 11, 2021, via Zoom where the JCSA’s Strategic Plan 2020-2025 was presented, and presentations were made on the following areas: - Role and Function of the Departmental
Representative - Role and Function of the Secretariat - Committee Terms and References - Benefits - Strategic Plan - Electoral Issues - Sector Discussion - Appointment to Boards and Sectors
Voting for members of the Executive Committee was also done using the Election Runners App. The presentations were conducted by our President, Officers, and General Secretary.
Civil Service Week 2021
Civil Service Week 2021 was celebrated under the “The Public Sector: Anchoring
Technology for Sustainable Growth and
Efficiency”. The following were planned activities for the week’s celebration:
• Civil Servant of the year Awards and
Ceremony –November 19th • Island-Wide Church Services – Sunday
November 21st • Public Forum (in keeping with theme) –
Tuesday November 23rd • Jamaica Civil Service Weeklong Service
Awards – November 24th • Another Side of Me Concert – Friday
November 26th The events were held in accordance with the Covid-19 protocol and guidelines.
Christmas Treat
General Council Members and Staff were treated with Christmas Treat Gift Bags courtesy of President O’Neil W. Grant in recognition of the service given in support of the President’s mandate in 2021. This took the place of the usual President’s Luncheon which was cancelled given the Covid -19 Pandemic and the inability to host same. ‘’
JACISERA Wellness Centre On the 6th of May 2021 the Gym at JACISERA Park was deemed officially open during a ribbon cutting event. The Centre will provide for the overall health and wellbeing of our members. Services will include barber, hair dresser, nail technician and masseuse. Offerings will be available to our members at discounted rates.
Mini Mart We have relocated our Kingston Minimart from 12 Caledonia Avenue, Crossroads, to JACISERA Park, 31 Molynes Road, Kingston 10. The Minimart reopened for business on January 3, 2022. We continue to encourage our members to support the
Minimart and enjoy the benefit of low pricing of the various good and services offered.
New Members Welcome Kit
Our welcome kit for new members is now available at the Secretariat. The kit is packaged with the necessary information/flyer and handed to new members.
Condolences During the administrative year, the Association said farewell to some of our members and well close family members of our council: “Those we love and lose are always connected by heartstrings into infinity.” – Terri Guillemets.
Condolences were expressed to the following: • Sis. Melaini Mullings-Arnold on the passing of her mother • Sis. Nadine Robinson on the passing of her brother • Sis Patrice Porter on the passing of her aunt • Bro. George Thorpe on the passing of his mother • To the Family and Friends of our former
Departmental Representatives Sis Yvonne
Jackson • To the Family and Friends of our former
Chapter Chair – St. James Chapter, Sis
Charmaine Gillette-McLellan • Sis. Alecia Pusey on the passing of her uncle and niece • Bro. Fabio Johnson of the passing of his sister • Sis. Stephanie Lewis-Brown on the passing of her brother, cousin & motherin-law • Sis. Sandra Brown on the passing of her father • Sis. Faith McDonald on the passing of her mother • Sis. Kaydia Beckford on the passing of her mother • Sis. Racquel Stephenson on the passing of her father • The staff of the Kingston Public Hospital on the passing of their colleague and our member • The staff at the St. Thomas Health
Department on the passing their colleague and our member • The staff at the Customs Department on the passing of their colleague and our member
INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS CLIMATE
Overview
The year under review was one filled with uncertainty, doubt and a lack of planning, not only in workplaces but in general as many Jamaicans tried to adapt to the new norm associated with Covid-19 and its variants.
This uncertainty brings into sharp focus the needs to implement flexi-work arrangement and the long-awaited Occupation Safety Health Act, which is to replace the old Factory Act of 1943. Despite the many challenges the Jamaica Civil Service Association Industrial Relations Unit manned by five (5) officers found unique ways to consult with our members ranging from face to
face, WhatsApp, Zoom and other virtual platforms. Industrial Relations Comparison for the period 2020/2021 and 2021/2022
During the period there was a sharp increase in grievances and disciplinary matters reported to the secretariat. These ranged from breaches of various polices/regulations and misinterpretation of the Disaster Risk Management Act. The unit will continue to provide quality and prompt representation and advocacy to our members.
Grievances
The JCSA handled a number of grievances during the period of February 2021 to February 2022:
Of the outstanding grievance and disciplinary matters that remained in house, twenty-one (21) are pending disciplinary hearings and three (3) matters awaiting appeal ruling, for the said period an average of 54 cases were settled per Industrial Relations Officer/Manager. Eight hundred and one (801) members visited the office or called in for advice and other work-related matters.
February 2021 to February 2022 Cases carried forward 127
New Grievances
Cases Se led 244
269
Cases Remaining 102
Office Visits and Call-In
Details for the period July 2021 to February 2022
Categories Amount
Non‐Payment of Benefits/ Allowances 59
Performance Appraisal Issues 45
Non‐Appointment
Other Issues/Queries
Total
31
307
442
Cases Settled – There was a 36.5% increase in 2021/2022 in comparison to the 2020/2021 year.
New Cases – There was a 17.3% increase in 2021/2022 in comparison to the 2020/2021 year.
Outstanding Cases – There was a 19.7% reduction in 2021/2022 in comparison to the 2020/2021 year.
Pending Hearings/Appeals – There was a 17.2% reductionin 2021/2022 in comparison to the 2020/2021 year.
Cases Settled per IRO – There was a 28.6% increase in 2021/2022 in comparison to the 2020/2021 year.
Office Visits/Call-Ins – There was a 38.1% increase in 2021/2022 in comparison to the 2020/2021 year.
Industrial Relations Highlights
Interdiction from Work
The IR unit has seen an increase in the number of officers sent on interdiction without due process and in some cases the withholding of salary and other emoluments. The purpose of interdiction is to prevent an officer under investigation from interfering with the process or if the officer is arrested and charged by the police.
Interdiction is being used as a form of punishment by most human resources personnel, in many instances the officers are not fully aware of the circumstances against them as he/she only receives a letter advising to proceed on interdiction pending an investigation into allegations of misconduct, which is in breach of the principles of natural justice and other polices that govern the MDAs.
Section 5.4.1 of the Disciplinary Policy for Public Bodies states:
Based on the nature and circumstances of the charge, employees MAY be removed from duty with pay or part thereof. The amount is determined by the circumstances of the allegations/charge, i.e. the more serious the charge the less is paid.
The general principle is that an employee should not be paid less than1/2 salary.
However, if the charge involves an allegation of fraud or misappropriation of public funds or property, the proportion may be as low as quarter. Request to Access Personal File It was reported that some Human Resource Management personnel willfully deny workers access to view their personal file. Some members would have reach out to the union seeking advice as to how they can view their files as they were told by HRM that personal file is confidential and only accessible to workers within HRM Department and that copying of documents on file is prohibited.
This is a clear breach of the Staff Order for the Public Service, 2004 Section 2.4 which states that (i) an employee shall have the right to access and view his/her personal file and make copies of any document upon request to the Head of the Human Resource Division. (ii) Any access, viewing or copying shall be done in the presence of suitable authorized personnel within the Human Resource Division.
Recommendation
The IR Unit is requesting that the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service conduct refresher Training Sessions with HR Practitioners within the MDAs to ensure that they are cognizant of the various regulations and policies governing the Public Sector.
Accumulation of Vacation Leave The Unit has been seeing where workers cease to earn vacation leave as a result of leave not accumulated and the worker failing to proceed on vacation leave within the prescribed time and is of the view that the leave would have accumulated without applying for the leave.
This is as a result of HR failure to effectively communicating with workers about the process of
The unit is in the process of recommending adjustments to this policy to ensure uniformity with the Public Service Regulations, 1961 and the Staff Orders for the Public Service, 2004.
leave accumulation and the absence of a proper leave management system.
The Staff Orders for the Public Service, 2004
section 7.4.8 (ii) Employees may accumulate leave to a maximum not exceeding the leave entitlement for three years only with the permission of the Permanent Secretary or Head of Department. Section 7.4.9 states Permanent employees shall be allowed to earn and accumulated additional full-pay vacation leave for a further period not exceeding two years if applications for all or any portion of their accumulated leave cannot be granted due to the exigencies of the service.
Counselling There needs to more sensitization and awareness about the Public Sector Employee Assistance Programme which is offered by the Employee Relations Branch of the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service (MOFPS). This programme offers short term counselling service to public sector employees either through referrals by the Human Resource Departments or direct contact by the employee.
Many public sector workers are faced with a myriad of issues especially now with the Covid19 Pandemic and are in need of assistance as to how to cope with these situations whether workrelated or personal. Some of the grievances that arise from time to time could have been averted had this service been engaged.
It has been noted that private counselling has been engaged from time to time which comes at a cost, resulting in limitations in the amount of counselling an individual can access.
In keeping with the Staff Orders for the Public Service, 2004 section 12.3.1 which states that “Permanent Secretaries/Heads of Departments should seek to access and make available to employees, services in consultation, referral and counselling on a range of health and lifestyle issues…” the Industrial Relations Unit is recommending that the MOFPS reintroduce the Public Sector Employee Assistance Programme by way of a Circular to the various MDAs.
GC Foster College One of our members employed to GC Foster College who was not appointed for a protracted period from 2016 in breach of the Staff Orders for the Public Servicesection 1.4 which states in part in instances where the appointment is to a position which is on the Public Service Establishment, is clearly vacant and the candidate has met all the requirements of the position, the temporary appointment should not normally exceed six (6) months.
The member was appointed following consultation by the JCSA with the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information. Prior to contact being made with the MOEYI several discussions/communications where had with the Director of Human Resource, GC Foster College.
The appointment was made effective retroactively, therefore the member received the outstanding retroactive payments.
Grievance Procedure – Non-adherence A number of our members brought to the attention of the JCSA the matter of being treated unfairly and unprofessionally within their MDAs by management even at the level of Director/Senior Director and Human Resource Management (HRM).
These complaints are being lodged with the Union without the members adhering to the Grievance
Policy for the Public Service, and as a result the JCSA has been guiding these workers as to their obligation in following the correct process.
These workers have since promised to conform and forward copies to the JCSA as soon as the timelines are breached by the HRM or whenever it is time for our intervention.
Performance Management The matter of subjective Performance Evaluation Reports being thrust on workers has been a sore point for a very long time; the Union has been intervening on behalf of members who have brought these occurrences to the fore.
It is quite evident that the proper protocols in treating with this matter is being ignored by HR Managers and Directors as they have been reluctant to abide with the principles outlined in the Performance Management Appraisal System (PMAS)
We are appealing to the powers that be to insist on having MDAs fully adopt and adhere to the requirements of PMAS in an effort to achieve uniformity, and fair treatment in the assessment of workers performance.
MEMBER SERVICES
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness” (Charles Dickens 1859) 2021 marked the 2nd year of the Coronavirus Pandemic. At times it seemed as if there was no end in sight as new variants kept presenting themselves seemingly heralding “the worst of times”.
Through it all the Member Services Unit pressed on to carry out the Association’s mission of “upholding the highest qualities of professional service to the nation” and provided our members through access to benefits and quality service with the opportunity for “the best of times”. Strengths
Staff The Member Service Unit is fully staffed with a Supervisor, First Impressions Officer, 2 Member Service Officers, 2 Data Processing Officers and a Help Desk Clerk.
The members of the Unit are equipped to provide world class service to our members. Every staff member in the Unit is equipped with the knowledge to address all member queries. We utilize the benefits of membership to recruit new members and retain existing members. Challenges Subscriptions not submitted in a timely manner We continue to struggle with a number of MDAs who are still not submitting the dues to us in a timely manner. There are also some MDAs who submit dues but do not submit the listing of the membership for whom the dues are deducted.
MDAs also continue to remit dues through the Jamaica Mutual Thrift Society despite numerous interventions to have this addressed.
This prevents us from timely updates of the membership for those affected MDAs and does not allow us to have a proper accounting of our membership.
Opportunities
Membership growth The opportunity for growth in membership is one that the Membership Unit takes advantage of by actively recruiting during presentations and events such as “Desk for a Day”.
The Central Government still has uncharted territories to be explored and tapped into and this will contribute to growth in membership. Threats
Union busting tactics There exists a small group of payroll officers, senior officials in MDAs who hold on to applications and do not action them to prevent prospective members from taking advantage of the protection that is offered by being a part of the Union.
Election of Officers Election of officers for the positions of President and 2nd Vice President was conducted onMay 13, 2021, for rural parishes and on May 28, 2021, for Kingston and St. Andrew.
The Unit was responsible for the preparation of the Voter’s List and ensuring that eligible members were captured and able to cast their ballots on Election Day.
Support with registration and verification of membership at the polling stations was also provided by the Unit. Member ID cards A total of 693 ID cards were generated to allow identification of our members and access to our Mini Mart and discount providers.
The Corona Virus Pandemic and the resulting need for social distancing resulted in a new and convenient way of generating ID cards.
Members are now able to submit the request for ID cards electronically via Whatsapp or Email. The members are asked to provide a passport sized picture, last payslip and signature and the ID card is then generated. Cards are then collected at the Secretariat or sent to our Regional Administrators for distribution.
ID prepared by Month Month
Mar-21
Apr-21 May-21 Jun-21 ID Requests 0
0
49
68
Jul-21
Aug-21 Sep-21 Oct-21
Nov-21
Dec-21
Jan-22
Feb-22 130
59
57
57
73
63
0
137
TOTAL 693
Graphical Representation of New Members by Month
Membership Growth
New Members by Month January 2022 saw members of the Unit being affected by the Coronavirus pandemic which resulted in the lowest number of confirmations for the period. The month of May 2022 had the highest number of confirmations which would be a direct result of the elections which are held constitutionally in May each year.
Mar‐21 Apr‐21 May‐21 Jun‐21 Jul‐21 Aug‐21 Sep‐21 Oct‐21 Nov‐21 Dec‐21 Jan‐22 Feb‐22
TOTAL New Applica ons Confirmed Members
175 114 75 209 179 77 109 147 120 95 105 73
1,478
88 258 420 161 182 175 114 263 170 156 6 241
2,234
Revenue Actual revenue for the year increased by 65.04% over the previous year. ($$1,154,564.51 in 2020/2021 vs $1,905,488.00 in 2021/2022). This is a result of targeted efforts such as increased presentations on the “Benefits of Membership” and distribution of brochures and application forms after the presentations are conducted.
New Revenue from Membership broken down by Month and Annualized
Mar‐21
Apr‐21 May‐21 Jun‐21
Jul‐21
Aug‐21 Sep‐21 Oct‐21
Nov‐21
Dec‐21
Jan‐22
Feb‐22
Total Projected
$105,962.62 $93,621.09 $77,591.80 $257,531.55 $133,883.27 $130,783.76 $162,747.13 $117,202.12 $256,041.47 $207,135.86 $89,251.05 $57,593.75
$1,689,345.47 Actual
$84,915.59 $176,878.06 $293,249.30 $120,899.23 $157,039.80 $142,756.95 $85,576.18 $213,817.19 $160,403.86 $125,815.09 $9,099.38 $335,037.37
$1,905,488.00 Annualized
$1,018,987.08 $1,945,658.66 $2,932,493.00 $1,088,093.07 $1,256,318.40 $999,298.65 $513,457.08 $1,069,085.95 $641,615.44 $377,445.27 $18,198.76 $335,037.37
$12,195,688.73
Graphical Representation of New Revenue by Month
Resignations Resignation requests for the period March 2021 – February 2022 totaled 83, this represents a 15.28% increase over the previous year. The month of February 2022 reflected the highest number of resignations. This was attributed to the 4% increase in salaries and the resultant increase in the dues being deducted from basic salaries.
JCSA Prepaid MasterCard Usage and distribution of the J.C.S.A branded MasterCard was halted due to the Bank of Jamaica revoking the card issuer’s Cambio and remittance licence. Members who had funds on the cards were able to access the funds but were unable to add new funds. This resulted in disappointment for many members as this member benefit was one that provided the members with convenience and security. Presentations and “Desk for a Day” Zoom and Teams continued to be the popular methods for presentations in 2021 as many entities were still under “Work from Home Orders” or were not accepting “Face to Face” presentations.
There were 21 Online presentations, 6 “Desk for a Day” and 2 Orientation sessions hosted by the officers of the Member Service Unit. During these exercises members and prospective members were informed about the history of the Union and the benefits of membership with the aim of growing and retaining the membership of the Association. Motor Vehicle Help Desk Our much-anticipated benefit the Motor Vehicle Help Desk was officially launched on May 6, 2021, at Jacisera Park. The Motor Vehicle Help Desk was conceptualized by President Grant to afford members the opportunity of owning a motor vehicle. He recognized that the costs involved in accessing a motor vehicle was preventing many members from acquiring such an asset.
Members who take advantage of the benefit of the Motor Vehicle Help Desk are assisted with the process of acquiring a used motor vehicle directly from Japan. This is facilitated through partnership with First Heritage Cooperative Credit Union, GBI Logistics, Beforward Ltd and Jamaica Cooperative Insurance Agency.
The Help Desk brings convenience and savings to our members, by importing the vehicle directly from Japan and eliminating the middleman members can save up to half a million dollars.
Resigna on Requests
Month of Request Requests Processed requests
Annual dollar value
Mar‐21 6
3 $51,786.48
Apr‐21 3 May‐21 13 Jun‐21 5
Jul‐21 7
1 $71,378.88 5 $160,645.56 2 $27,513.12 4 $64,496.52
Aug‐21 3 Sep‐21 1 Oct‐21 6
Nov‐21 5
Dec‐21 7
3 $27,042.00 4 $75,933.48 4 $113,242.44 3 $51,972.24 3 $31,291.68
Jan‐22 8
1 $24,199.44
Feb‐22 19 8 $258,160.80
Total 83 41 $957,662.64
This benefit takes the hassle out of the process of acquiring a vehicle, the Help Desk Clerk facilitates the entire process from selection of the vehicle online, loan appointment, the necessary registrations and document approvals to importation to the keys in the member’s hand.
Since its inception the Motor Vehicle Help Desk has received 52 applications of which 21 were referred for loan appointments to First Heritage Cooperative Credit Union. 2 Motor Vehicles were secured and on their way to Jamaica as of March 2022.
The Member Services Unit remains a strong and committed force in the Jamaica Civil Service Association. We continue to lift the bar in providing 1st class service to our members, prospective members and partners as standard bearers of this august organization.
PUBLIC RELATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS UNIT
The period 2021 to 2022 was undoubtedly a challenging period for the Public Relations and Communications Unit of the JCSA as the world tried to adjust to the “new normal”. Nonetheless we forged ahead to carry out our objectives despite the obstacles.
Here are some of the highlights for the period: Maintenance of Digital Communication Maintenance of effective digital communication is important as it allows members to not only have access to current information, but it also allows for a greater level of engagement and interaction between the organization and its membership.
We continue to maintain effective communication with members by sending out information daily, through the use of email, social media pages (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) and WhatsApp messenger. Press Releases and Advisories For the period, thirteen (13) advisories and five (5) press releases were prepared and sent out to the media and membership via email and social media.
Flyers Fifteen (14) flyers were created for the promotion of the Chapter Annual General Meetings. One (1) flyer was created for the promotion of the Minimart 2 for 1 sale.
JFB Protest The PRO attended a protest in September along with Second Vice President, Bro. Kelvin Thomas, to stand in support of the Contact Drivers and Mechanics who have not received a pay increase in over 8 years.
Media personnel were contacted and came on location at the JFB Headquarters to cover this and photos and videos were placed on the social media platforms. A press release was also written and sent to the media.
Becoming a member of the JCSA Video The script was completed and submitted for approval and the video recording was done, the video was edited sent for approval.
Motor Vehicle Raffle Fundraiser
JCSA Fast Forward Promotion and Draw The JCSAFast Forward Promotion raffled a 2021 Hyundai Tuscon and a Hyundai i10 vehicles courtesy of Magna Motors. This activity was promoted using various social media platforms.
The draw, which was held at Magna Motors on September 30, 2021, was streamed on our YouTube and Facebook platforms.
The winners of the raffle were Kadine Stanberry-Taylor of NERHA and Jahmoy St. Jaques of the Ministry of Local Government. Man Talk 101 Health Series Promotion for this activity was done using social media platforms. Persons joined this event from zoom as well as YouTube. Members were able to interact through these platforms Taking Action Brochure This is brochure was completed and is being printed for distribution to membership. The brochure outlines what actions to take when members face issues within the workplace. 16 Days of Activism Initiative update The walk was postponed from November 25, 2021. The walk proposed for Thursday, November 25 did not take place due to us not getting approval from the JCF in time. However, twelve (12) members of the Women’s Action Committee and the Men’s Coalition Committee engaged in a staged walk at JACISERA Park on Tuesday, December 7, 2021. The videos and pictures from this event were placed on the JCSA social media pages as we support and send a strong message to end gender-based violence. All Things Considered Webinar The WAC Forum/Webinar entitled “All Things Considered” took place as promised on December 9, 2021 at 2:00 pm via zoom. It was also streamed on YouTube.
Human Rights Day (Friday, 10th December 2021) A candlelight vigil was held in remembrance of those who lost their lives and honouring survivors of Domestic Violence took place on Dec 10, 2021, via zoom.
In attendance were a representative from Woman Inc. who brought greetings, two survivors who gave account of their experiences. The father of Miss Nevia Sinclair was unable to attend; however, a short video along with a voice clip were played of him stating what happened and how the family was coping with the tragedy expressing his desire for the situation to be addressed.
COVID-19 & VACCINATION FAQ Sheet An information sheet was developed to answer questions related to Covid19/Vaccination and to present facts to provide correct information to our members regarding these issues to help them in making informed decisions.
FAQ Sheet Our monthly sheet has been created each month and posted on our social media pages. Did you know Feature Monthly did you know features were created and placed on our social media pages
Digital Sensitization Podcast series We successfully executed the first in our podcast series. The first podcast was premiered on International Women’s Day on under the theme “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow” on March 8, 2022. The podcast is available on our YouTube, Anchor and Spotify platforms.
Our host was Sis. Rhonda Pryce. Panelists were:
• Ms Dione Chambers, Manager, National
Spatial Strategy Branch (NSSC), NEPA (Confirmed) • Ms. Peta-Gaye Williams, Office Manager at St. Catherine, East Central Branch,
Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) (Confirmed) Well and Irrigation Project
Phase 1 of the project has completed with water being found. The water is not recommended for human consumption however it may be used for irrigation and the flushing of toilets etc. The commencement date for Phase 2 is to be determined by the management.
Caretaker’s Residence The construction of the Caretaker’s residence perimeter wall was completed and other upgrades were implemented.
JACISERA Fitness Centre The gym at JACISERA Park was opened on the 6th of July 2022 to the members of the Jamaica Civil Service Association for usage.
Since the opening the gym has started off slowly as our members become acquainted with the offerings. The average per day visit has ranged from 2 to 6 persons with a high of 13 per day. We anticipate an increase in attendance in the future.
JACISERA PARK
This report serves to highlight the events /and activities at JACISERA Park for the year 2021.
JCSA and Molynes United Football Club A meeting was held with representatives of the Jamaica Civil Service Association and Molynes United F.C. to . determine and establish the roles and responsibilities between the two entities including areas of premises that will be accessible to Molynes United F.C., and forthcoming revenue arrangements.
Molynes United F.C. resumed training at JACISERA Park in August. Field usage, rehabilitation, and maintenance
The field was used by the members of the Molynes United Football Club and the contractor has been maintaining the area.
The Centennial Garden Heart NTA Ebony Park has completed the Centennial Garden Project (i.e., the completion of the fountain) . Issues with low water pressure which is hampering irrigation are being addressed.
JCSA RESOURCE CENTRE Land Survey and Property Boundaries
A survey of the park conducted by the National Land Agency (NLA) revealed that its boundaries stretch all the way from the auditorium to the National Works Agency’s (NWA) Bridge Parts Storage facility. The boundaries also include the Digicel facility, the NWC facility and a building that is under the NWA’s control. This is the same building that we have been in dialogue with the NWA about, trying to establish a MoU with them for its use and control. The building is intended to be the home of the JCSA’s Resource Centre. The Resource Centre Project has been on hold as the management sought to have dialogue with the NWC and Digicel in an effort to formalize the arrangements surrounding their occupancy of space on lands to which the JCSA have an active lease. The scope of the project was also being contemplated given this new information. A recent Topographical Survey also conducted by the NLA further confirmed the boundaries. Albion Lands of Saint Thomas
Eviction Notices were served on the persons who are illegally occupying these lands. On one occasion, enforcement activities were conducted against these persons. This saw the demolition of small non-permanent structures on these lands. Ministerial Approval for demolition is to be received by March 31, 2022. Final removal notices are to be prepared by the NLA’s Legal Department and served on all occupants of the lands. The actual demolition is to take place after 30 days of the serving of the notices.
Storage Containers
Storage containers in the form of two (2) twentyfoot container have been deployed at the park. The containers have been equipped with intrusion detection devices as well as a smoke detector.
PROJECTS Braco Beach Vacation Cottages Project (Braco and Lancaster Estates, Trelawny)
A lease has been obtained for lots 1 and 3. The lease for lot 1A is being pursued. The lands have been surveyed and the boundaries marked. A geotechnical survey is to be done. This will inform if we need to take special precautions during the construction phase. Lot 3 will also need to be subdivided in an effort to conform with the Parish Council specifications. Concept designs have been prepared for the cottages and has received no objection from the Parish Council. The properties are to be fenced subject to the approval of the cost by management. The costings are being refreshed as they have become stale dated. The approval for the preparation of the measured survey drawings will be sought thereafter. There are persons occupying a section of lot 1 and that they will need to vacate the property prior to any major works commencing.
Regional Reports
NORTH EAST REGION
North Eastern Region Annual General Meeting 2021 The Annual General Meetings for the North Eastern Region were held in January 2021 for the respective chapters via zoom. It was well supported within the chapters by members logging in to participate while devices were shared within the departments. Presentations were done by the JCSA Mutual Thrift Society, Jamaica Cooperatives Insurance Agency and Sagicor for all five meetings.
Annual General Meetings detail below:
Date
13/1/2021
13/1/2021
14/1/2021
14/1/2021
18/1/2021
Chapter
Portland
Chapter Chair
Tamara Lawrence
St. Mary Karen Coleman Clarke
Brown’s Town Carol Clarke
St. Ann’s Bay Erle Findlay
St. Thomas Jody‐Ann Bailey
A endance
ZOOM: 21 Face‐to face: 8
ZOOM: 15 Face‐to face: 11
ZOOM: 18 Face‐to face: 12
ZOOM: 20 Face‐to face: 9
ZOOM: 21 Face‐to face: 9
Office Visits Over one hundred and two (102) sight visits have been done to MDA’s in the North Eastern Region over the reporting period. The rise and fall in COVID -19 cases decreased our ability to conduct presentations, desk for a day and office visits.
Breakdown of visits are listed below.
New Members One hundred and eighteen (118) JCSA Membership application forms were submitted by the North Eastern Regional Office for the reporting period. Please note; additional applications would have been submitted directly to Secretariat by Chapter Chairs. Presentations A total of seven (7) JCSA presentations were done for the reporting period at; – Port Maria Health Department, St. Mary – St. Mary Municipal, St. Mary – Oxford Clinic, St. Mary – NE Psychiatric Nurses via zoom – Freeport Fire Department, St. James – Municipal Police, St. Mary – Ocho Rios Post Office, St. Ann
Total NE Office Visits and Ac vi es for February 2022 Chapter Visits Office Presenta ons Desk For A Day Applica ons collected Thri
St. Mary 46 5 3 55 3
St. Ann’s Bay 46 1 3 46 2
Browns Town 19 ‐ ‐ 10 ‐
Portland 27 St. Thomas ‐1 38 2
St. James 4 Trelawny ‐
Total: 102
1
‐
7
‐
7
1
8
118
‐
7
NB. Follow‐up visits were done periodically to departments.
Offices visited January -December 2021 were: ST. ANN OFFICE VISITS-January to December 2021
St Ann’s Bay Chapter
Discovery Bay Post Office Ocho Rios Police Sta on
Runaway Bay Post Office Runaway Bay Police
Correc onal Services‐Runaway Bay
JCDC
RGD
EOJ
Child Protec on and Family Services Agency Discovery Bay Police St. Ann Infirmary St. Ann’s Bay Police St. Ann’s Bay Fire Department St. Ann’s Bay Fire Brigade HQ
St. Ann Parish Library Ministry of Labour and Social Security Jamaica Customs
Vic m Support Unit
Ocho Rios Fire Department Ocho Rios Health Department NERHA Office
Ocho Rios Post Office Passport and Immigra on Agency St. Ann’s Bay Post Office St. Ann Municipal Corpora on
Court Management Services
Road and Works Moneague Teachers College
Marcus Garvey Technical High School St. Ann’s Bay Hospital St. Ann Health Department Moneague Primary and Junior High Moneague Tax Office Moneague Post Office
Steer Town Academy Moneague Police Sta on
Steer Town Clinic RADA‐Claremount
St. Ann’s Bay Police Sta on Heritage Trust‐ St. Ann’s Bay St. Ann’s Bay Hospital Proba on Claremont Health
Claremont Post Office
Claremont Police Sta on
EOJ‐ Claremont
Brown’s Town Police Sta on
Court Management Services St. Hilda’s Diocesan High School Brown’s Town Post Office Brown’s Town Clinic Brown’ Town Branch Library RADA‐Browns Town 4H Club York Castle High School Court Management Services
Browns Town
Brown’s Town Community College Social Development Commission Electoral Office .Tax Office Ministry of Educa on Brown’s Town Fire Sta on
RADA‐Browns Town 4H Club Brown’s Town High School
ST. MARY VISITS-January to December 2021
Jamaica Founda on for Lifelong Learning Ministry of Labour and Social Security Port Maria Hospital Port Maria Post Office Port Maria Parish Library Oracabessa Post Office EOJ Oracabessa JCDC Na onal Land Agency Port Maria Post Office Tax Office Examina on Depot RADA Retreat Branch Librar Port Maria Hospital St. Mary Health Department Na onal Land Agency Proba on EOJ‐Highgate St. Mary High School Anno o Bay Health Department Anno o Bay Branch Library
ST. MARY
Tax Office‐Anno o Bay Anno o Bay Hospital Anno o Bay Post Office Oracabessa Police Oracabessa Heath Clinic Tower Isle Police HQ‐Area 229 Tower Isle Post Office Boscobel Post Office Jamaica Founda on for Lifelong Learning Oracabessa Branch Library Oracabessa High School Port Maria Post Office Examina on Depot Ministry of Labour and Social Security St. Mary Municipal Corpora on‐Planning Port Maria Fire Sta on St. Mary Municipal Police St. Mary Parish Library Highgate Health Department Highgate Post Office Retreat P.O Retreat Health Center Retreat Primary and Junior High.
Forty‐six (46) offices visited in the St. Mary Chapter for the period.
PORTLAND VISITS-January to December 2021
Portland
Buff Bay Court House Port Antonio Hospital Portland Parish Library Port Antonio Post Office Ministry of Labour and Social Security Buff Bay High School Buff Bay Branch Library Buff Bay Post Office Buff Bay Health Department RGD‐Portland Portland Municipal Poor Relief Portland Fire Sta on Ministry of Educa on Hope Bay Clinic Ministry of Labour and Social Security Correc onal Services College of Agriculture, Science and Educa on
Seventeen (17) offices visited in the Portland Chapter for the period.
ST. THOMAS VISITS-January to December 2021
Office visits done in St. Thomas by Industrial Relations Officer, Miss Rosalind McKenzie.
Desk for a day A total of seven (7) Desk for a Day was conducted for the reporting period at; – Port Antonio Police Station, Portland – Steer Town Primary and Junior High School,
St. Ann – Annotto Bay Health Department, St. Mary – Correctional Services- Runaway Bay, St. Ann – St. Ann’s Bay Health Department, St. Ann – Highgate Health Department, St. Mary – Port Maria Hospital, St. Mary
Emails added for the period January to December 2021.
Two hundred and twenty-eight (228) emails added for reporting period and a total of one thousand six hundred and ninety (1690) added since the inception of the North Eastern Regional Office to December 31, 2020. Please see breakdown below;
JCSA ID A total of forty-two (42) JCSA ID’s were produced during the period January to December 31, 2021 for the North Eastern Region. See table below; Grievances for the period: Six (6) grievances were reported to the North Eastern Regional Office. Please note members may have also communicated directly with the JCSA Secretariat. Breakdown below;
Resignations: No resignation letters submitted to the North Eastern Office.
Members Assistance: Two (2) Members from the North Eastern Region received benefits through the JCSA Member’s Assistance Program.
Tertiary Grant Form: Thirty (30) JCSA Members submitted completed Tertiary Grant Application Forms to the North Eastern Regional Office in July 2021.
NORTH EAST CHAPTERS’ HIGHLIGHTS JCSA Raffle The JCSA motor vehicle raffle launched in May 2021 had both first and second prize winners from the north eastern region. First prize winner of the was from St. Mary, while second prize winner was from St. Thomas.
Chapter
St. Ann’s Bay St. Mary Portland
Total: Amount
4
1
1
6
Chapter
Repor ng period To date
St. Ann’s Bay 90 697
St. Mary 63 Brown’s Town 15 388 121
Portland 60 St. Thomas 0
Total: 228
248 236
1690
Chapter
St. Ann’s Bay Brown’s Town
St. Mary Portland
St. Thomas
Total: Total ID’s processed
16
4
4
16
2
42
Civil Service Week Activities • Church Service
All Chapter Chairs from the North Eastern Region attended church services within their respective Chapters along with a few members in celebration of Civil Service week celebrated November 2127, 2021. Other members joined via streaming platforms. It was indeed a blessing of divine
worship geared toward civil servants on that day.
Participating churches attended from the NE Region on November 21, 2021 were;
JCSA St. Mary Chapter Project On November 17, 2021 the St. Mary Chapter donated five hand sanitation dispensers and sanitizers to three basic Schools and two Primary schools in St. Mary. After investigations the chapter realized that these needed items were most appropriate because of back to school and face to face classes amidst the covid-19 pandemic.
The JCSA team lead by President O’Neil Grant along with our General Secretary Sis. Tifonie Powell-Williams, Chapter Chair Karen ColemanClarke, Executive Members Bro. Ayres, Bro. Langrin, Sis Nicole Hamilton Linton and Regional Administrator, Sis. Marilyn Hines journeyed to Albian Mountain Primary School, Trinity Primary School, Heywood Hall Basic School, Highgate Basic School and Esher Martin Basic School handing out these much-needed items creating additional sanitization stations.
Both Basic and Primary Schools expressed their gratitude to the JCSA for considering and choosing them at this time as their main sources of income were decreased significantly, and they received minimal funding received from Government. JCSA Brown’s Town Chapter Project The Brown’s Town Chapter partnered with St. Ann Hi-Tech Farmers Group Limited in the cleaning of the Red Cross Beach in Discovery Bay, St. Ann on Saturday, November 13, 2021 and Scenic View in Discovery Bay on Saturday, November 20, 2021. This is the Chapters’ fourth staging of the annual event dubbed ‘’International Coastal Cleanup Day 2021’’. This initiative is geared toward sustaining a clean environment and preserving our beaches and fishing sanctuaries. Members of the chapter along with other volunteers assisted in this venture. Volunteer will be awarded certificates of participation. This event was sponsored by the private sector in kind.
JCSA Portland Chapter The Portland Chapter set up an Information Corner at the Port Antonio Parish Library on November 23, 2021. JCSA brochures and flyers were displayed to the public at large during CSW 2021. This imitative is geared towards raising awareness of the JCSA and the benefits to be derived as a member.
St. Ann’s Bay Chapter • AGM – Held on January 14, 2021. • Parish Meeting- One (1) meeting held on
October 21, 2021. • Executive Meeting- One (1) held for reporting period. Browns Town Chapter • AGM – Held on January 14, 2021. • Parish Meeting- One (1) meeting held on
October 29, 2021. • Executive Meeting- Two (2) executive meeting held for the reporting period.
St Mary Chapter • AGM – Held on January 13, 2021. • Parish Meeting- One (1) meeting held on
October 13, 2021 via Zoom.
Parish/Chapter Church venue
St. Thomas Christ Chapel United Pentecostal Church
Portland Port Antonio Methodist Church
St. Mary Highgate New Testament Church of God
St. Ann’s Bay St. Ann’s Bay Bap st Church Brown’s Town Apostolic Arch Pentecostal Church‐Retreat
• Executive Meeting- One (1) executive meeting held for the reporting period.
Portland Chapter • AGM – Held on January 13, 2021. • Parish Meeting- One (1) meeting held
October 12, 2021 via Zoom. • Executive Meeting- One (1) meetings held for reporting period.
St. Thomas Chapter • AGM – Held on January 18, 2021. • Parish Meeting- One (1) meeting held
October 11, 2021 via Zoom. • Executive Meeting- Non held for reporting period.
SOUTH CENTRAL REGION
Office Updates The year 2021 proved to be a challenging year for everyone due to the unprecedented Covid-19 pandemic. Despite this, the Jamaica Civil Service Association (JCSA) continued to be “Persistent and Consistent in advocating for its members with an aim to move them from Surviving to Thriving”.
The South-Central Region of the JCSA hosted successful Annual General Meetings (AGM) in St Catherine, Clarendon, Manchester, Santa Cruz and Black River. Although these meetings were held via zoom they were well supported by members and potential members. Our 2nd Vice President Sister Techa Clarke-Griffiths who acted in the post of President during President O’Neil Grant’s vacation, Zonal Chair and 3rd Vice President Brother Clarence Frater, General Secretary Sister Tifonie Powell-Williams and staff from the secretariat and all Chapter Chair and their Executives were present at these meetings. The elections were conducted by our Industrial Relation Manager Brother George Thorpe and resulted in the Region moving forward with all Chapter Chairs remaining except for St Catherine.
Manchester Chapter executives returned enbloc are: St Catherine: Sister Peter-Gay Williams was elected Chapter Chairman following the resignation of Brother Ramon Downer.
Clarendon: Sister Karen Givans was elected as the new Public Relations Officer, Sister Maullian Walkers as Treasurer and Brother Raymond Whyte as Assistant Public Relations Officer.
Santa Cruz: Sister Yanique Ennis was elected as Vice Chairman Sister Feona Wright as Secretary, Sister Claudine Beckford Mitchell as Assistant Public Relations Officer.
Black River: Sister Christine Jackson was elected as Secretary.
Chapter Date A endees
St. Catherine Chapter January 18/2022 Clarendon Chapter January 20/2022 Manchester Chapter January 20/2022 Santa Cruz Chapter January 19/2022 Black River Chapter January 19/2022
Total Physical Virtual
11 56
13 24
22 49
13 25
19 26
78 180
The region has been active in all the JCSA General Council Meeting which held on a quarterly basis by Zoom. Matters discussed at these meeting included Wage Negotiations, Pension Reform, and Contract Employment among other issues affecting the public sector. We participated in several zoom meeting such as: webinars, toastmaster, JCSA Men Coalition webinar and Jamaica Customer Service Association week.
Members came to utilize the services offered by the Union, to submit application forms and grievances and to make requests to the Mutual Thrift Society.
PRESENTATION: 15 Presentations were conducted for the period in review. We continued with the issuing of Identification cards to members and encourage members to use the platform provided for the processing of identification cards.
GRIEVANCES: A total of thirty-six (36) grievances were settling for the year in review.
Chapters Activities: The South- Central Region joined in the Celebration for Civil Service Week. We started off with our Church Service for the Manchester and Clarendon Chapter on November 21,2022. As part of the celebration activities, twenty-five (25) Health Care Workers across the Manchester Chapter were recognized with gift bags to show our appreciation for their outstanding contribution during the pandemic. Santa Cruz Chapter recognize their long serving members with Certificates and Gift Cup branding our logo of the union. We hosted Two (2) Executive Meetings during the period under review. A Zonal meeting was conducted for all Chapters, starting from the 2nd of October through 28 ,2021.
The Santa Cruz and Black River Chapter organized about three group purchases (Chapter Sale Day) form the JCSA Mini Mart, with purchases totaling about Six Hundred Thousand Dollar ($ 600,000). These took place in February, July, and December.
PROJECT: Two projects were conducted for the year in review: • Manchester Chapter completed another project in the form of tiling out a classroom at the Sydney L. Blake Basic
School in Mile Gully. • Clarendon Chapter donated a black water tank to the Woodhall Primary School, on the 21st of December 2021.
Membership Growth & Benefits
Email Data System for South Central Region Contacts database to date are as follows:
Chapters St. Catherine Email Added 292
Clarendon
412 Manchester 701 St. Elizabeth (Santa Cruz) 170 St. Elizabeth (Black River) 64 Total 1551
Three Hundred and forty-seven new member recruited for the reporting period:
Chapter
New Recruits
St. Catherine Chapter 107 Clarendon Chapter 45 Manchester Chapter 130 Santa Cruz Chapter 33 Black River Chapter 32
Total 347
Outward communication
• Office & Site Visits There were One Hundred and Ten (110) Department visit for the reporting period. JCSA Information Corner
Information Corner was established via What’s app for all Chapter for the period in review. Status of established Information Corners is as follows: – Depts. Installed to date: 1494 – Depts. Pending Installation 67 – Depts. Not able to accommodate due to lack of space availability:
Eltham High School Ministry of Labour and Social Security St. Catherine Municipal Co‐opera on St. Catherine Branch Library Registrar General Department Spanish Town St. Jago Health Centre Spanish Hospital Police Academy Linstead Health Centre Linstead Tax Administra on Linstead Hospital Linstead Tele‐communica on Great Portmore Tax Administra on Greater Portmore Branch Library
Electoral Office May Pen Health Centre Clarendon Health Department 4H Club May Pen Hospital Lionel Town Tax Administra on Lionel Town Health Centre Lionel Town Tele‐Communica on Lionel Town Hospital St Augus ne Place of Safety Chapelton Health Centre Chapelton Tax Administra on Jamaica
St. Catherine
Greater Portmore Tele‐Communica on Greater Portmore Health Centre Waterford Health Centre Waterford Branch Library Waterford Tele‐Communica on Bodles Research Sta on Bodles Tele‐Communica on Old Habour Branch Library Old Habour Tax Administra on Old Habour Health Centre Old Habour Electoral Office Jamaica Gregory Park Tele‐Communica on Chris an Pen Health Centre Chris an Pen Electoral Office Jamaica
Clarendon
Clarendon Branch Library Clarendon Municipal Co‐opera on May Pen Tax Administra on Jamaica May Pen Tele‐Communica on Ministry of Labour and Social Service Social Development Commission Na onal Work Agency Raymond Health Centre Milk River Health Centre Summerfield Place of Safety Racecourse Post Office Racecourse Library
New Broughton Sunset Rehabilita on Centre Mandeville Regional Hospital Mile Gully Health Centre Sydney L Blake Basic School Mandeville Comprehensive Clinic Mile Gully Branch Library Mile Gully Electoral Office Jamaica Ministry of Labour and Social Service Social Development Commission Percy Junior Hospital Spaulding Health Centre Chris ana Branch Library Electoral Office Jamaica (Chris ana)
Manchester
Tax Administra on Jamaica (Chris ana) Manchester Municipal Co‐opera on Manchester Parish Library Electoral Office Jamaica (Mandeville) Kirkvine Post‐Telecommunica on
Porus Health Centre
Williamsfield Post‐Telecommunica on
Porus Branch Library Cross Keys Health Centre Na onal Work Agency Newport Branch Library Newport Health Centre Spaulding Branch Library
Balaclava Health Centre
Social Development Commission Tax Administra on Jamaica
Vic m Support Child Protec on and Family Agency Santa Cruz Tele‐Communica on
Santa Cruz Branch Library Ministry of Labour and Social Service
Santa Cruz
St Elizabeth Technical High School St Elizabeth 4H Club
Electoral Office Jamaica
Rural Agriculture Development Authority Manning’s Place of Safety Southfield Health Centre
Goshen Health Centre
Munro College
Black River Hospital
Black River Health Centre
Black River Parish Library
Police Convalescent Centre
Black River Tele‐Communica on
Electoral Office Jamaica
Black River
Black River Municipal Corpora on
Black River Tax Administra on
Black River Magistrate Office
Black River Municipal Co‐Opera on
Transport Authority
Black River High School
WESTERN REGION
The hard work of the Officer Corp of The Jamaica Civil Service Association paid off with extended benefits in the Western Region.
The President, Brother O’Neil Grant, The General Secretary, Sister Tifonie Powell-Williams, First Vice President & Monitoring Officer, Sister Techa Clarke-Griffiths, braced the odds of the Pandemic of Covid-19 and worked from our Regional Office to ensure their presence was not only seen but felt in the West. They visited various offices to treat with the well being of members. Several Departments with concerns and grievances were addressed.
On occasions where it was deemed necessary, members of staff from the Secretariat in Kingston Westmoreland, Trelawny, and St. James. These meetings were conducted by members of the Officer Corps and Staff members from Kingston, as well as the relevant Officers from each Chapter.
Quarterly Meetings In keeping with the Governments protocol to safeguard everyone two (2) Quarterly Meetings were done virtually with the following results.
Relocation of Western Regional Office The Western Regional Office was relocated to 44 Thompson Street and was officially opened on the 4th June 2021. This office now has a staff compliment of Three (3) in the persons of Sister Dellaceta Drummond, Regional Administrator; Sister Taniesha Minzie, First Impressions Officer; and Sister Jennifer Plummer, Office Attendant.
Western Mini Mart The Launch and opening of The Mini Mart located at 44 Thompson Street Montego Bay, was part of the Official opening of The Regional Office on the 4th June 2021.
CHAPTERS DATES VENUES ATTENDEES
Westmoreland 27/01/21 RADA Conference Room 52
Hanover 27/01/213 Hanover Parish Library 33
St. James 28/01/2021 RADA Conference Room (Mo Bay) Trelawny 28/01/2021 Falmouth Town Hall 72
35
attended to the needs and functions of this office to fullfil the organization’s mandate.
The Administrative Coordinator, Sister Patrice Porter, through her unwavering faith and commitment ensured that the Region’s Office was fully equipped with all the necessities to keep staff and everyone who accessed our services safe.
The Western Region has been blessed with more empowerment when the Regional Office was relocated to 44 Thompson Street and included a Mini Mart.
Members across the region now have access to more resources and benefits and are now seeing themselves as meaningful associates of the JCSA.
CHAPTERS DATES
PARTICIPANTS
Westmoreland 27/04/21 65 Hanover 27/04/213 42 St. James 28/01/2021 84 Trelawny 28/01/2021 35
Western Region Chapter Annual General Meetings. In the month of January 2021, The Western Region held Annual General Meetings virtually on the Zoom platform for the parishes of Hanover,
The Mini Mart now serves the entire membership of the Region and its environs. It is operated by Sister Bri’Anna Harvey, also a member of Staff.
COVID – 19 & ITS IMPACT This Region had more than its fair share of the Corona Virus which raged across the island and had severe impact on Field Visits. It claimed the lives of several of our members and left many families in mourning.
Among the untimely deaths were Sister Charmaine Gillette, Chapter Chair of St James; Mr. Eric Vassel, Parish Manager of RADA Westmoreland and his Secretary Mrs. Barbara Derson. “May Their Souls Rest in Peace.”
Western Region’s Walk Through: The President and General Secretary made visits to The Ministry of Education, Tax Administration of Jamaica (TAJ), Western Region Health Authority, Cornwall Regional Hospital and several other Departments.
During these visits, issues were addressed, recruitments were done, updates on wage negotiations were given, persons to person interactions were conducted.
Civil Service Week Church Services were held throughout the Western Region to commemorate Civil Service Week from 21st to 27th November. The Regional Office hosted a Member’s Appreciation Day on the 24th of November 2021. This event included the finalization of a Quiz Competition put on by the St. James Chapter during the week of celebration.
Winners collected their prizes while all other attendees received branded JCSA tokens. The cutting of the cake was done by Executive members who were present after which refreshments were served.
Membership Growth & Benefits
Email Data System for Western Region Three Hundred and Thirty-four (334) new emails were added to the database for the year 2021. Total Three Thousand Three Hundred and Seventy-Four (3374)
Contacts for the year 2021 are as follows:
Chapters Added for the Year Year To Date
St. James 97 1,523
Hanover 60 566
Westmoreland 117 719
Trelawny 60
Total 334
566
3,040
Hanover ‐ 21/11/2021 Lucea New Testament Church, Malcolm Heights, Lucea Bishop Robert Williams Westmoreland ‐ 21/11/2021 Deliverance Centre Great George St.,Savanna la mar Bishop Joyce Bernard Trelawny ‐ 21/11/2021 Abundant Life Ministry, Green Park, Trelawny Pastor John Hines St. James ‐ 27/11/2021 Montego Bay SDA, Union St., Montego Bay Pastor Andre Outward communication, Office & Site Visits: Regular office visits included: For the year 2021, Three hundred and Sixty-Five (365) office visits were done and a total of One Hundred and Ninety Recruitments recorded.
PARISH
OFFICE VISITS NEW APPLICANTS
Hanover 102 Westmoreland 116 Trelawny 51 St. James 96
Total 365
18 59 06 107
190
Desk for a Day: Three (3) Desks were set up for the year 2021. One at Savanna la mar Hospital; Cornwall Regional Hospital; Noel Holmes Hospital.
The First Vice President and Zonal Chair, Sister Techa Clarke Griffiths attended the desk for a day at Cornwall regional hospital. She also toured several areas of the institution with special focus on Maintenance and dietary departments.
COMMITTEES
MEN’S COALITION COMMITTEE
Mutual Thrift Form: Twenty-One (21) applications were collected for the year 2021:
PARISH
Hanover Westmoreland Trelawny St. James
Total Applica ons
01 09 02 09
21
One member from Hanover received financial assistance with funeral expenses for his daughter who was a victim of the Corona Virus.
Grievances: Sixteen (16) grievances were routed through the Region’s Office which were actioned by the Secretariat in the year 2021. Committee Executive:
Bro. Clarence Frater - Monitoring Officer Bro. Allan Carter - Co-Chair Bro. Geoffrey Marshall - Co-Chair Bro. Jerry-Neal Richards - Secretary/Fitness Adviser Bro Christopher Scott- Assistant Secretary Bro Denson Riley - Project Manager Bro. Arlington Roberts - Public Relation Manager Bro. Nikhail Campbell - Assistant Public Relations Manager
Total Number of Members 19 Total Number of Meetings 10
Since its inception 2019 the Men’s Coalition Committee has been growing from strength to strength and the period June 2021- February 2022 has been an exceptional period of growth and development in the Committee’s history. The quality of the brothers who responded to the call for membership in June 2021 and monitoring officer Bro. Clarence Frater’s appointments of Bros. Allan Carter and Bro Geoffrey Marshall as Co-Chairs of the Committee, brought together men of foresight, capability, flexibility and vision who worked together in furtherance of the Committee’s commitment to assist, support and empower men who are members in Jamaica’s civil service and in the wider diaspora.
Bro. Frater charged the co-chairs with the responsibility of putting together a draft term of reference (TOR) for the Committee, which was fulfilled, and the completed document was
forwarded to the JCSA Executive Committee for approval in June 2021.
The second most significant achievement during the period was the first ever JCSA MCC ‘Man Talk 101’ which entailed discussions and expert presenters on prostate cancer and male reproductive health. This online webinar was held on September 30, 2021, from 2pm to 4pm at the Jacisera Park facility and streamed online to the public through all the social media platforms of the JCSA. Both activities and others assisted the MCC in achieving various aspects of its Motto, Vision and Mission Statements below Events or Activities for the Year 2021/2022 MCC (Meetings, Events and Activities)
Motto: “Unity is Strength Among Brothers”
Vision To become the leading and most sought-after male civil advocacy group in Jamaica and the Caribbean catering to the holistic development of men in the public service and general population.
Mission 1. We will lead talks on male related policies in the public service with the aim of having at least male representation at each Executive sitting of the JCSA.
2. We will grow male membership of the JCSA by 10% by the year 2025.
3. We will increase the options to men to become more physically and mentally active and healthy.
4. We will have increased outreach to disenfranchised male annually.
Meeting Dates The Committee meetings were eventually scheduled for every last Friday in every month Monthly Planning Meeting to discuss and deal with the TOR for the committee. (June)
Monthly Meeting hosted to prepare the Calendar of Activities/Budget (July)
Monthly Meeting hosted to Prepare and Submit the Man Talk Series Proposal (August)
Man Talk Webinar: Presenters on prostate cancer and male reproductive health (September)
Monthly Meeting hosted with a special presentation from Brother Chung within the topic of: ‘Inspirational Leadership’. (October)
Monthly Meeting hosted Monthly meeting to plan for International Men’s Day Proposal (November)
Monthly Meeting turned into a social meeting dubbed “Cheers to the Hardworking Men” (December)
Jamaica Civil Service Association (Projects and Forums attended by co-chair(s) or member representative(s)
1. PSI-DGB TRAINING PROGRAMME - Trade union action using International Mechanisms and Instruments, October 19, 2021. 2. The Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sports’ National Strategic Action Plan to
Eliminate Gender-Based Violence (NSAP-
GBV) in Jamaica on Saturday November 13, 2021 hosted a Male Mentors Workshop at
Hotel Four Seasons. Brother Allan Carter represented the JCSA in his capacity as the co-chair of the Men’s Coalition Committee. (November) 3. Co-chair Brother Allan Carter represented the
JCSA at The Ministry of Culture, Gender,
Entertainment and Sports’ International
Men’s Day Church Service organized by the
Bureau of Gender Affairs (BGA). The event was held at the Constant Spring Road Church of God, St. Andrew. (November) 4. Supported the Women’s Action Committee in their celebration of 16 days of recognition of
Gender Based Violence Against Women and
Children.
WOMEN’S ACTION COMMITTEE
The Jamaica Civil Service Association Women’s Action Committee (WAC) was dissolved on May 31, 2021 and a new administration was reconstituted in June 2021. Our team consist of Techa Clarke-Griffiths, 1st Vice President and Monitoring Officer, LaToya Spence, appointed Co-Chairperson, WAC, Geraldine Miles appointed Co-Chairperson and other recommended committee members not limited to the following specified below:
Anastasia Clarke Cole – Jamaica Council for the Elderly Tashika Johnson – Court Administration Division Yanique Ameir-Cummings – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Maxine Shrouder – Jamaica Information Services Carol Hammond – Passport Immigration and Citizenship Agency Elesha Blake – Electoral Office of Jamaica Sakeena Smellie – Electoral Office of Jamaica Peta-Gaye Williams – Electoral Office of Jamaica Sandra Mendez Williams – Kingston Public Hospital
Patrice Porter – Jamaica Civil Service Association (Liaison Officer) Meetings: Our first meeting, held on July 20, 2021 via Zoom, had approximately 10 members. Activities and the direction of the Committee for the coming year were discussed. These included training for committee members as well as JCSA members by the British Council, planned visits to the various Chapters, an update was provided on the Resource Centre, ideas for fundraising, the MOU with Woman’s Inc. and ideas to commemorate the 16 days of Activism against Gender-based Violence just to name a few. In addition, discussions were held regarding fundraising for Sister Regina Bell’s baby – Caleb to assist with defraying hospital expenses. The Executive Committee gave approval to host a ‘Paint & Sip’ event on September 11, 2021. Flyers were prepared and distributed, however, the responses to this paid event were not forthcoming and so it was postponed.
Meetings were not held in August and September due to internet issues with some members and other issues beyond our control. Whilst no committee meeting was held in September 2021, Sisters Techa Clarke Griffiths, LaToya Spence and Geraldine Miles met to discuss and prepare a document in response to queries regarding the purpose of the Resource Centre that was forwarded to the Project Officer, Mr. Michael Dixon on September 15, 2021.
The meeting scheduled for Tuesday, October 19 was used to host a Candlelight Vigil in honour of our dearly departed Sister Charmaine Gillette McLellan. Hence, this meeting was rescheduled to Friday, October 22, 2021 where five (5) members were present. At this meeting, the Budget was discussed as well as activities for the commemoration of the 16 days of Activism against Gender-based Violence and a Toy Drive
to brighten some children’s holiday for December. It was decided that the Reddie’s Place/Home of Safety would be the charity that we focus on. In discussions with the Manager of the Home, she suggested that we donate food items instead of toys.
Other meetings were held with the Co-chairs and Sister Shanee Grant, PRO of the JCSA to further discuss and finalize the events for the 16 days of Activism against Gender-based Violence and the donation drive for the Home. The Proposals were presented to the Executive Committee at their meeting in November and approval was given.
A meeting was held on October 26, 2021 via Zoom with the co-chairs and Sister Grant to complete a questionnaire/survey on the Regional Spotlight Initiative Programme.
Meetings were also held during February 2022 to discuss the activity for International Women’s Day (IWD) celebrated globally on March 8 each year. This year’s theme is “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow”.A planning meeting held on February 28, 2022 with 6 members of the Committee along with Sister Shanee Grant, finalized the plans for the event (see updates).
Attended and Participated in Zoom Meeting/Training:
SUBWOC – September 21, 2021 (co-chairs participated)
SUBRAC – September 28 & October 15, 2021 (co-chairs participated)
SEMINAR – December 3, 2021 Public Sector Disabilities Awareness Week Sensitization Session on the Disability Regulations (one committee member) Budget Call The Women’s Action Committee responded to the Budget Call for 2021/2022 on October 28, 2021, which outline the expected income and expenses for the administrative year 2021/2022.
Update on events:
16 days of Activism against Gender-based Violence
Tuesday, 7th December 2021
The walk proposed for Thursday, November 25 did not materialize on the day due to circumstances beyond our control. However, twelve (12) members of the Women’s Action Committee and the Men’s Coalition Committee engaged in a ‘Walk’ at JACISERA Park on Tuesday, December 7, 2021. The event was staged, and the videos and pictures were placed on the JCSA Facebook page as we support and send a strong message to end gender-based violence.
Thursday, 9th December 2021
The Forum/Webinar “All Things Considered”, moderated by Sister Geraldine Miles commenced at 2:00 p.m. via Zoom and was attended by approximately 60 persons. President O’Neil Grant and 1st VP Sister Techa Clarke Griffiths brought greetings. Sister LaToya Spence brought greetings on behalf of WAC and gave a brief overview of the work and responsibilities of the committee. The presenters from Women’s Inc. and the Bureau of Gender Affairs tackled some of the issues and challenges of Gender-based violence in Jamaica whilst Sister Safiya Gibson (Trinidad and Tobago) brought a regional perspective to the issues and challenges and reiterated the importance of the ratification of ILO C190 for a safer workplace and society in general. The audience was given names and numbers at the respective Agencies where
complaints/reporting and redress of these issues can be made. Persons were encouraged to speak up and speak out on the issues of gender-based violence in order to stop the practice. The position of the Government as well as the route that the Government is taking was highlighted and it was announced that at least one home to house abused women was opened and another was to be opened shortly. There was a question-and-answer segment, which sparked a robust discussion on the issues of gender-based violence, victim protection and help for perpetrators. The presenters, both local and regional did excellently; the session was well received by all.
Gift baskets as a token of our appreciation were presented to the two (2) local presenters shortly after the event concluded.
Friday, 10th December 2021 (Human Rights Day)
The host, Sister Geraldine Miles started the Candlelight Vigil at approximately 6:30 p.m. with the President Brother O’Neil Grant and 1st VP Sister Techa Clarke Griffiths bringing greetings and welcoming the audience (approximately 30 persons). The representative from Woman’s Inc. addressed the issue of gender-based violence and its impact on both males and females, the children, other family members and even coworkers who may be involved.
The father of Miss Sinclair was unable to attend; however, a short video along with a voice clip were played of him stating what happened and how the family was coping with the tragedy expressing his desire for the situation to be addressed. Two (2) survivors gave accounts of their experience after which each person on the platform lit the candles, a moment of silence was observed for those victims who lost their lives and a sister offered prayer for the survivors and other persons present. Woman’s Inc. representative gave the numbers and names of the persons to call and indicated that there are also dedicated hot lines and persons available to talk with victims at any time the need may arise. There was a question-and-answer segment, which provided other vital information. The session was a revelation as to how gender-based violence affects individuals negatively.
Donations to the Reddie’s Place/Home of Safety We solicited donations from six (6) companies, however, some food items were received from Grace Kennedy Co. Ltd and personal care items were received from Ada Manufacturing Ltd. These were presented to the Reddie’s Place/Home of Safety on Tuesday, 21 December 2021 by Sisters La’Toya Spence, Geraldine Miles and Yanique Ameir-Cummings. The items were well received by the Manager of the Home. The children sang Christmas carols and gave the team a handcrafted Christmas card.
Emails with pictures of the presentation were sent to Grace Kennedy Co. Ltd. and Ada Manufacturing Ltd. expressing our gratitude.
Training by British Council The training planned by the British Council for members of the Association has been placed on hold. Checks by Sister LaToya Spence, Co-chair, WAC, revealed that the Country Director from the UK returned home due to the pandemic and no replacement has been forthcoming for Jamaica. No further action can take place until the post is filled.
International Women’s Day 2022 (IWD)
Tuesday, March 8, 2022
A half-hour podcast was premiered on March 8 exploring issues surrounding the theme for International Women’s Day “Gender equality
today for a sustainable tomorrow”
Moderator: Sis. Rhonda Pryce
Panellists:
Mrs. Techa Clarke- Griffiths – Ministry of Local Government and Comm. Development, Director Ms Dione Chambers, Manager, National Spatial Strategy Branch (NSSC), NEPA Ms. Peta-Gaye Williams, Office Manager at St. Catherine, East Central Branch, Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) Mrs. Sharon Coburn Robinson, Director at the Bureau of Gender Affairs
BUS MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Facility
The MOFPS is still without a Quantity Surveyor for th e process to continue however, Bro. Raymond Poyser has indicated that he will offer some help in identifying a Quantity Surveyor for the MOFPS. Unacceptable Behaviour
The unacceptable behaviour of some employees and passengers in the GETS system is still a cause for concern to the committee. The committee is appealing to passengers using the system to behave in a manner befitting a Government Employee. The committee has also indicated to the operators of the system to demand of their employees’ behaviours that are consistent with the established Policy guidelines.
COVID 19
The committee was informed that all the necessary precautions as it relates to sanitization are taking place to make it as safe as possible for the passengers. The Ministry is also exploring the possibility of installing machines that auto check temperatures and sanitize.
Damage to New Bus
Repairs have been completed on schedule and the bus is back in operation.
Repairs
The GETS Fleet (Government Employees Transportation Services) is in urgent need of additional new buses to reduce the incidence of frequent breakdowns that is now a constant feature of the system. A quarter of the fleet was either down for repairs or has been repaired for the period under report. This activity is of great inconvenience to passengers due to the mergers that take place and the frequent displacement of passengers.
Repairs are still ongoing and should be completed in the third quarter of 2022.
Rerouting of Buses
The committee was told that the assessment by Bloomfield Jamaica Ltd is still in progress, upon completion of this process the Ministry will make the necessary changes to the route.
AFFILIATION REPORT
PUBLIC SERVICES INTERNATIONAL (PSI) CAPACITY BUILDING PROJECT
PSI’s digital capacity-building project, Our Digital Future, was organised to equip union activists and leaders to defend and advance the digital rights of their members. This is a 3-year project, in partnership with Friedrich Ebert Stiftung and The Why Not Lab, which empowers public service unions to understand and act on digitalisation-related changes at the workplace and in public service delivery. Topics covered include automation, data access, monitoring, collective bargaining, public service reform, outsourcing and challenging the power of big tech players over digital service delivery.
In 2021, PSI trained over 100 Digital Rights Organisers to include a team from the JCSA through 12 workshops and established regional networks to support unions in the region.
