Thousands file for NIS benefits

Some 3, 602 unemployment claims have been submitted to the NIS since major layoffs began recently due to the new coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in Barbados.

Acting Director of the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) Jennifer Hunte, told listeners to a radio call-in programme today, that all will be done to have the claims processed as quickly as possible, but underscored that the NIS was facing great strain at this time, and was operating with reduced staff.

In response to a caller, Hunte said there was an expectation that claims would be processed within four to six weeks. She also reminded callers that employees required 52 weeks of contributions to qualify for unemployment benefits, while noting that there was currently no unemployment benefit available for persons who were self-employed. (IMC1)