The Ministry of Labour and Social Security has ramped up its efforts to curtail employment scams and illegal operators of unlicensed employment agencies, recruiting persons to work overseas.
This, as a total of 12 illegal employment scams have been identified since the start of the year, two of which have been referred to the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Fraud Squad for prosecution.
The Ministry says it has adopted a zero-tolerance approach to these illegal agencies.
It says individuals or organizations operating without valid licences are to immediately desist and are encouraged to visit the Ministry’s offices to regularize their operations.
Recruiters from overseas are also encouraged to work with licensed employment agencies.
The Ministry says persons found operating in breach of the law may be fined 1-million dollars or face up to 12 months imprisonment.
In the meantime, the Ministry is again urging Jamaicans to visit their website to ensure the validity of Employment Agencies.
