By Lesroy W. Williams Observer Reporter
” (Basseterre, St. Kitts) ” An increase of EC$1.75 per hour in the minimum wage will take effect on Nov. 1, the government has announced. The minimum wage increases covers workers in all occupations and sectors. The last minimum wage, which was legislated in 2004, stood at EC$6.25 per hour for unskilled workers and EC$7.50 per hour for semi-skilled workers, has been increased to $8.00 per hour/$320.00 per 40 hour week. A press release from the Labor Department stated, “Against the backdrop of International Labor Organization’s Decent Work Agenda and the increased venerability of workers impacted as a result of the high and rising cost of food and services, the Government, in keeping with its mandate and responsibility to protect and promote the social and economic welfare of the citizens, hosted a national consultation on the issue of raising the minimum wage. “Subsequently, in accordance with the Labor Minimum Wage Act – CAP 344, a National Minimum Wage Advisory Committee to review the Federation’s minimum wage and other terms and conditions of work was empanelled,” the press release said. Tuesday Online Code for Issue # 731 is MUR The announcement to increase the minimum wage was first made to the Federation by the Prime Minister on May 6. Minister of Finance, Dr. Timothy Harris, said that the government, in deciding the minimum wage sought to engage all stakeholder groups in the discussion in order to arrive at consensus. “The Minister of Labor on behalf of the Government wishes to thank the committee members for their work and contribution to the process and urges all employers to govern themselves accordingly, the press release said.
