LABOUR and Social Security Minister Dr Fenton Ferguson has emphasised the important role which the ministry must play in advancing the Government’s growth agenda.

“This ministry must be seen, not only as one that will respond to disasters or as a farm workers’ ministry. My intention is to bring to the public the role (we will play) in the context of an economic ministry,” he added.

The minister was addressing staff during a recent familiarisation visit to the Ministry’s Portland parish office, in Port Antonio.

Dr Ferguson highlighted several activities, including legislative engagements, which are integral to fulfilling the stated goal.

Notable among these, he said, is the Occupational Safety and Health Bill, “that I expect to come to Parliament soon”.

The minister said the proposed Act “is very important”, as it relates to the health and safety of workers, particularly on construction sites and in factories.

Dr Ferguson also highlighted the ministry’s work to advance legislation in relation to discrimination against persons living with HIV/AIDS, in the workplace, pointing out that “it is geared towards reducing the stigma against these vulnerable groups”.

Regarding Parliament’s passage of the Sexual Harassment Act earlier this year, the minister said while the ministry did not pilot this piece of legislation, it was nonetheless a “critical part of the labour movement”.