Workers and employers no longer have to travel to Kingston to have matters heard before the industrial disputes tribunal.

This as the Industrial Disputes Tribunal (IDT) officially opened its western division office in Montego Bay, St. James, today.

IDT West will allow companies, organizations representing workers and employees to have their disputes heard and resolved in a reasonable timeframe.

Giving the keynote address at the official opening ceremony, Minister of Labour and Social Security Shahine Robinson said the location of the new IDT office is ideal.

And, the Chairman of the Industrial Disputes Tribunal Marsha Smith noted the importance of citizens having ease of access to institutions that help resolve disputes.

Meantime, Labour Minister Shahine Robinson has indicated that the establishment of the Industrial Disputes Tribunal West office in Montego Bay, St. James will help clear the backlog of cases requiring arbitration.

Speaking at today’s opening ceremony, Mrs. Robinson noted the importance of Jamaica having a stable industrial relations climate.

She said the case load in western Jamaica accounts for one third of the islandwide tally.

The minister acknowledged the role played by the previous PNP administration in setting up the IDT West office.