KINGSTON, Jamaica — Chinese-owned Whole-Hearted Car Service will be allowed to reopen with conditions including that employees be enrolled in the HEART/NSTA-Trust according to Minister of Labour and Social Security, Pearnel Charles Jr.

An investigation had been triggered into whether the operation was compliant with labour laws after it gained attention on social and traditional media.

READ: Ministry of Labour investigating Chinese-operated Whole Hearted Company Services Ltd 

In a statement on Sunday, the ministry said it had concluded its investigation and as part of the resolution, Whole-Hearted Car Service Limited has agreed to a suite of measures.

These include:

– Enrolling all employees in the HEART/NSTA Trust programme to acquire their Prior Learning Certificates.

– Establishing a structured apprenticeship programme through the Jamaica German Automotive School (JAGAS) in collaboration with Human Employment and Resource Training /National Service Training Agency (HEART/NSTA) Trust.

– Allowing HEART/NSTA Trust/JAGAS instructors to understudy the auto mechanics operation to ensure knowledge transfer and skills development.

– Submitting a list of all Jamaican workers, including their names, wages, and positions, along with copies of their fully-endorsed employment contracts to the ministry within three months of reopening the garage.

“To ensure that these measures are instituted the MLSS will continue to monitor implementation of the agreed-upon measures, conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance, and provide support and guidance to Whole-Hearted Car Service Limited and other businesses to promote fair employment practices,” the release said.

While welcoming foreign talent, Charles Jr explained, “The MLSS emphasises the importance of compliance with labour laws. We are committed to enforcing regulations and protecting the rights of workers. We will continue to work with the relevant agencies to ensure fair employment practices and prevent exploitation.”