KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of National Security, Robert Montague, has asked the Private Security Regulation Authority (PSRA) to explore the possibility of introducing a health insurance plan for security guards.

Speaking in the Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on Wednesday, the minister said he made the decision following a meeting with players in the private security industry, who underscored the need for reform of the sector.

“We must address the terms and conditions of our serving 25,000 security guards. You can register and be licensed as a security guard. Do the duties as a security guard, but collect the pay of a watchman. That cannot be right or just. I have asked the PSRA to explore with the ministry of health and private providers, a health insurance scheme for our security guards and their families,” Montague told the House.

He reassured the security guards and companies that the vetting, working conditions and the space to operate will be dealt with in a process of reform.

 “Let us reassure the guards and the companies that the vetting, working conditions and the space to operate will be dealt with. Everyone must be treated fairly. Reform is on the way. This industry is vital to our economy:  banks, water systems, airport, ports, ministries and private homes depend on this industry. They offer a vital service,” Montague said.

The Government also announced recently that it will explore the possibility of re-assembling a Joint Industrial Council (JIC) – comprised of representatives of the security firms, the trade unions and the Ministry of Labour And Social Security – to provide industrial relations coverage for the security industry.

The PSRA is a statutory body under the Ministry of National Security charged with the responsibility to monitor and regulate the operations of: contract security organisations; proprietary security organizations; private security guards; private investigators; security trainers.

Balford Henry