Cabinet Approves Introduction of National Entertainment Registry and Event Rating System

Kingston, Jamaica: June 11, 2014 - Cabinet has approved the establishment of a National Registry of Entertainment Practitioners and the Ministry of Tourism and Entertainment is currently streamlining the processes necessary to make the system fully operational and compliant with the new Fiscal Incentives regime.

The announcement was made by State Minister in the Ministry of Tourism and Entertainment, the Hon. Damion Crawford, during his contribution to the Sectoral Debate in Parliament, on Tuesday, June 10, 2014.

“The registration period has been opened since January of this year and will end on July 31, 2014”, Minister Crawford said. He emphasized that “registration is free, so I urge all entertainment practitioners to register and capitalize on the opportunity to access tools of trade and free movement that registration and certification as a bona fide practitioner facilitates.”

The introduction of the registry is aimed at creating an inclusive and effective information hub that facilitates the delivery and administration of the processes necessary for the development of a sustainable entertainment industry. 

When operational, the registry will among other things, provide a central portal for listing Jamaican entertainment services and companies including their key profile and contact information and legitimize the entertainment industry for greater economic benefit. It will also foster efficiency and transparency within the entertainment industry and facilitate free movement of creative skills internationally and across the region.

Minister Crawford then informed Parliament that Cabinet has also approved an Event Rating System, which is intended to be a guide for entertainment practitioners and the general public on what should be offered to the public and what people should expect from entertainment events.

“We will undertake a public education campaign shortly to speak to the use of sexual content, violence and strong language in our entertainment output,” Minister Crawford added.

The rating system is intended to provide entertainment practitioners and consumers of entertainment with guidelines as to what is expected and the types of content suitable for varying audiences.  Events will be assigned ratings to indicate the degree of caution parents and the general public should exercise, and the content sponsors should take into account in determining whether an event is suitable for their consumption or their brand association.