Here’s a list of COVID-19 response measures announced by the Government of Jamaica and the Private Sector – so far – to help us navigate this challenging time. This does not include the health sector response. These are only the measures to support other critical aspects in the economy that impact lives and livelihoods. It will be updated regularly but check with Jamaica Gleaner for the very latest. Listed in date order, newest first. Please read all original articles for important details.
Article:
COVID Relief For Informal Sector – Cabbies, Barbers, Barmen In Good Standing To Benefit.
““The Government is going to give a grant to individuals that they are not entitled to, that they have not earned, but a grant due to the circumstances,” the finance minister explained, adding that registration authorities would help with verifications.” Read more here
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Article:
“The eight measures outlined by Byles on Thursday – some of which were previously announced by the central bank – include direct sales of foreign exchange to authorised dealers and cambios, as needed; alongside a halt on investment transactions that require the purchase of foreign exchange.” There are more. Read here.
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Article:
Hi-Lo Offers Discounts To Senior Citizens, Healthcare Workers
Hi-Lo has is now offering a 10 per cent discount to healthcare workers islandwide. It is also extending a five per cent discount to senior citizens on all purchases made between 8 and 10 a.m. daily. A release from GraceKennedy yesterday said both special offers will be in place until further notice. Read more here
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Article:
Sagicor Life Implements Coronavirus Measures
According to a release from Sagicor, among the measures is the granting of an additional 30 days grace period for life insurance clients to pay premiums. “Premium payments can be made online using Client Web, a free and convenient platform that also enables policyholders to receive payouts electronically. Online payments can also be made using Paymaster and Bill Express online services. Clients may also pay premiums using bank transfers, standing orders and salary deductions.” Read more here
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Article:
Highlights:
The Ministry of Education, Youth and Information has partnered with the RJRGLEANER Communications Group to deliver live interactive teaching sessions across all media platforms for high school students in Jamaica.
The agreement will see the RJRGLEANER brands, Television Jamaica (TVJ), The Gleaner’s Youth Link, Music 99FM, jamaicagleaner.com, televisionjamaica.com, Television Jamaica You Tube, Jamaica News Network (JNN) and 1spotmedia provide live and pre-recorded content to students.
Read more here:
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Article:
Banks Forgo Asset Tax Cut To Provide $3b For Jamaica’s COVID-19 Response.
Highlights
- “This will allow the government to add $3.02 billion to the $7 billion already announced as contingency to deal with COVID-19.”
- “Special Consumption Tax (SCT) will be waived on 100,000 litres of alcohol which will be donated to National Health Fund.”
- “Customs charges on liquid soaps, sanitisers, masks and gloves have been waived for 90 days.”
Read more here
See Screenshot of Fiscal Stimulus Measures
MORE:
Article:
- “Since Saturday, MultiLink fees have also been suspended for persons using JN Bank debit cards at MultiLink ATMs or to make purchases in stores…until Sunday, March 22.”
- Suspended all fees to conduct in-branch transactions.
Read more here.
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MORE:
Article:
BOJ Expanding Access To Local, Foreign Currencies By Financial Institutions. Measures listed in the link.
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MORE:
NCB Waives Some Fees Amid COVID-19 In Jamaica. Measures for personal, corporate and commercial customers, small and medium enterprises. Read link for details.
