Dear Editor,

Basically the mission of the National Insurance Scheme is to provide social security and associated benefits to its contributors, providing all the necessary requirements are fulfilled. While eligibility for benefits is enshrined in a number of regulations, holding all things equal, small claims of a consistent contributor are usually honoured. But if one digs a little deeper it is not as simple and straightforward as it seems. Having completed my mandate in accordance with a ministry’s instructions in Lethem, Region 9, and following instructions, I boarded a bus and commenced my journey for Georgetown. Along the trail, the vehicle turned turtle. Alas, this accident set in motion a nightmare that can only be described as without end.

I suffered cervical spine dislocation and a fracture to my neck. In addition to medical and transportation expenses, I continue to employ domestic help to do mundane chores since the dislocation remains the same. My expenses mounted. Incredibly, the ministry whose tasks I was executing did absolutely nothing to offset my expenses. To add insult to injury, NIS denied my injury benefit.

It is important to note that although I was injured in the line of official duty I did not qualify for injury benefit according to NIS. Injury benefit entitles a claimant to 100% reimbursement inclusive of transportation expenses. I was told in no uncertain terms that, since I was not injured by a company vehicle, I can only claim sickness benefit. My understanding is that as long as one is injured in the line of official duty that person is entitled to injury benefit. Additionally, it is worth nothing that physiotherapy, neck brace/collar, etc, are not reimbursable by NIS. I was injured while on official duty, but was denied my injury benefit. The system at NIS is biased and outright inhumane. Where do I seek redress?

Knowledge of our rights as employees empowers us to make appropriate demands and decisions at our places of employment. This experience has prompted me to enlighten the public because I believe that prior, correct, relevant and timely information guides decisions, especially as these relate to tasks assigned at one’s place of employment, and knowledge of one’s basic human rights as these relate to the execution of assigned tasks. Take heed, else you too suffer the consequence of ignorance.

Yours faithfully,
(Name and address provided)