Parliament committee to examine remote work and flexible hours in Jamaica

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Parliament’s Economy and Production Committee is preparing to assess Jamaica’s approach to flexible working time and work-from-home arrangements.

The planned review is being framed around pressures now affecting employers, employees and national economies, including unsettled global markets, geopolitical tensions and higher fuel prices.

Alando Terrelonge, who chairs the committee, said the situation has pushed fresh international debate about how work should be organised and how newer workplace practices may lower expenses, lift efficiency and contribute to long-term economic growth.

“Jamaica must remain responsive to the changing realities of the global economy. As fuel and transportation costs continue to affect households and businesses, it is important that we examine innovative and practical approaches that can support productivity while improving the everyday lives of our people,” he said.

In a statement, Terrelonge said the exercise forms part of wider work to find workable steps that can raise productivity, build economic resilience and improve Jamaicans’ standard of living.

He said the committee plans to bring stakeholders into detailed, evidence-led discussions on the benefits and difficulties linked to flexible work systems, and how far those systems may fit Jamaica’s circumstances.

According to the chairman, the review will look at several flexible workplace approaches used overseas to boost organisational results, worker well-being and day-to-day efficiency.

The committee also plans to hear from the public sector, private sector, labour groups, academics and relevant State bodies, so that any proposals are grounded in local conditions and are balanced, practical and sustainable.

Terrelonge noted that the COVID-19 pandemic showed that many entities were able to move effectively to different working arrangements. He said present economic conditions offer a chance to decide whether parts of those arrangements can keep producing gains for workers, employers and the wider economy.

“The objective is not simply to revisit practices introduced during the pandemic but to determine whether there are sustainable approaches that can help Jamaica become more productive, more competitive, and better prepared for future economic challenges,” the committee chairman maintained.

He said the discussion is tied to productivity and Jamaica’s competitiveness, adding that any option that may help employees spend less time in traffic, cut travel costs, improve work-life balance and increase output deserves proper consideration.

“Jamaica cannot afford to ignore technological advancements and innovations that may strengthen our economy and improve the daily lives of our citizens,” Terrelonge maintained.

Consultations are expected to start in the coming weeks, after which the committee will table its findings and recommendations in Parliament.