BGLC Workers Raise Concerns About Planned Merger, Other Issues | RJR News

By Prince Moore 

The staff association representing workers at the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Commission (BGLC) is raising concerns about declining staff morale, a lack of transparency and uncertainty surrounding the planned merger into a new Gaming Commission.

In a letter dated August 24 sent to the Director of Human Resource and Administration, Dr. Shanique Cornwall, the staff association expressed concern about several issues affecting workers.

In the letter to management, the association said employees have not received sufficient information about decisions affecting them, including the reported mandate given to the Commission’s Executive Director.

It is also seeking details on the proposed merger, including the new Commission’s organisational structure, job descriptions and the timeline for completion. 

The association is calling for a union representative to sit on the merger committee and wants access to key merger documents.

Other concerns include staff departures, changes to work arrangements, unresolved employee claims, contract appointments and possible impacts on job security, pensions and other benefits.

The association is also questioning the selection of a new health insurance provider without staff consultation and is calling for greater transparency in recruitment and other employment practices.

It warns against any victimisation of union executives and says workers are protected under Jamaican labour laws from discrimination because of their union activities.

The association says it wants to restore a workplace where employees are informed, consulted and treated with dignity. 

It is requesting written responses within five business days and a meeting with senior management within ten working days.

It says if the concerns are not addressed, it may seek the intervention of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security through conciliation or arbitration.