THE Jamaican government has launched a new initiative offering free life insurance to over 4,400 entertainers and creatives across the island.
The Jamaica Entertainers and Creatives Insurance Plan (JECIP) aims to provide financial security to those listed in the National Registry of Entertainment and Creative Industries Practitioners (E-Registry), ensuring they have coverage in case of unexpected events.
Administered by Guardian Life Insurance Group, the plan offers life insurance coverage to registered participants aged 6 to 75, with the option to extend the coverage to 99. The best part? No premiums are required, making it completely free for enrolled entertainers and creatives.
Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, Hon. Olivia Grange, underscored the importance of this program, reflecting on the tragic losses in 2017/2018 when 19 entertainers died, with 70% of them lacking adequate insurance. “This was especially troubling because these entertainers gave so much to our country. I don’t like to see us having to pass the hat around to bury anybody, so it’s vital that you take this seriously,” Grange said.
In addition to life insurance, the program will offer comprehensive health coverage starting in January 2025. The group health insurance will cover hospitalisation, surgery, accidents, maternity, major medical care, and emergency medical services for entertainers who may be touring abroad. “The coverage will include hospitalisation, surgery, accidents, maternity, major medical, and overseas emergency medical care for those who may be touring,” Grange explained, emphasising the breadth of the coverage that would ensure the well-being of entertainers both locally and abroad.
Eric Hosin, Guardian Life’s Group Head of Life, Health, and Pensions, emphasised how vital this initiative is for entertainers' families. “It’s not just you who feel the pain; your family members will also suffer. This plan ensures they are taken care of in case of an emergency,” Hosin said.
This initiative forms part of a broader strategy to provide social protection for all Jamaicans.
Dione Jennings, Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, stressed the collaborative effort between ministries to ensure no one is left behind. “We want to make sure the legacy of our entertainers builds up Jamaica,” Jennings stated.
Entertainers and creatives interested in enrolling in the plan can register online or visit the Ministry’s offices for assistance.
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