Barbadians have been assured that action will follow the recommendations and strategies devised during the National Symposium on Just Transition and Job Creation in the Green and Blue Economy.
The commitment came yesterday from Minister of Labour, Social Security and Third Sector, Colin Jordan, at the opening of the event, at Hilton Barbados, Needhams Point, St. Michael.
He said: “I assure you that my Ministry will continue its work with our counterparts at the Ministry of Education, Technological and Vocational Training, the Ministry of Environment and National Beautification, Green and Blue Economy, and the Ministry of Energy and Business Development to action recommendations and strategies that are devised during this Symposium. For my Ministry, we intend to apply all that is shared in shaping decent work policies and programming.”
Outlining the current programme, he said the Ministry would be launching a sensitisation campaign on green jobs targeting key stakeholders, developing mechanisms to identify green jobs and related skills needs, as well as implementing employment promotion initiatives in green jobs, particularly to support the transition to the national 100 per cent renewal energy – the national target.
It will also see the Ministry conducting a comprehensive assessment of labour standards relevant to just transitioning and green jobs; disseminating relevant information through sensitisation and training; and establishing a special focus on safety and health practices in organisations involved in the Green Economy through the promotion of the ACTION (A Commitment to Improving Our Nation) Programme.
While disclosing that there was “still lots more to be done”, he told participants their input would also help the Ministry to fulfil its role in preparing the people and workplaces of Barbados for the transformation of Barbados’ green and blue economy and the promotion of inclusive growth.
“Let us approach the task before us with courage, determination, and solidarity. Let us draw inspiration from the resilience of our forebears and the boundless potential of our people. Strategy! Action! That is what will get us to where we need to go.
“Together, let us forge a path towards a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future – one in which the principles of social justice, solidarity, and environmental stewardship guide our every action,” said Minister Jordan.