ADMITTEDLY THIS TOPIC is not what in the editorial world is considered a “sexy” issue.
Nevertheless it is one which I believe needs to be highlighted as previous attempts by others proved futile.
At some point in our life we or someone close to us may become unemployed.
Those who might have a bit of savings might not view it this way, especially those who get the huge packages. I speak here for the small, poor, low-wage person or sole breadwinner who is now unemployed.
In a 26-week period an unemployed person is expected to visit the Employment Bureau in Warrens, once every three weeks, before returning to the Unemployment Office in Culloden Road. When you visit the Employment Bureau you walk into a relatively small space. Most times there is no need to sit as there is hardly a crowd there.
You go to a small desk, give the staff member your identification and the card from the Unemployment Office. It is stamped and you are through the door.
There is no checking of data. There is no interview. No questions are asked. In short, nothing of consequence or significance is derived from this formality.
What can result though is that if you cannot find the bus fare to get there or produce a doctor’s certification that you were ill I’ll bet, you would forfeit your right to receive funds!
At Culloden Road, there is ample space to accommodate the 15 hard plastic chairs that are in the Warrens Office.
There is a huge desk at Culloden Road which is underutilised and can accommodate more than one “staff-stamper” if it was necessary, making this ordeal a one stop event, and less bus fare for the unemployed person. I’ll bet you that the only time this will be seen as the problem it is, is when the politicians are looking for a vote. We no longer live in caves, wear grass skirts or cook on firewood.
In short, I am saying that the unemployed have bills and responsibility.
While I am on that note, I would like the goodly Minister of Labour to understand that it does not cut it when she can comfortably state and I quote from the back page of the DAILY Nation, Monday August 24, headlined:NIS Solid strapline: No Need For Bajans To Worry About Fund.
If the fund is not broke why are the unemployed not receiving monies? Don’t tell me you cannot fix computer glitches in less than 26 weeks?
All of this is totally unacceptable Minister Byer.
– MARY YEARWOOD
