HIV Testing Should Be Voluntary, Employers Warned

KINGSTON, Jamaica, Gleaner - THE WHITE Paper for the national workplace policy on HIV/AIDS has been tabled in Parliament, further paving the way for the establishment of enforcement mechanisms to protect the rights of persons infected or affected by the illness. The paper, which was laid on the table of the Senate on Friday, is intended to give legislative expression to an occupational safety and health act, which the Government says will soon be enacted. According to the White Paper, which was approved by Cabinet last September, employers shall ensure that policies and procedures are in place to prevent testing and screening as a prerequisite for employment, continued employment, appointment to positions or promotions.