Since the announcement of a proposed minimum wage, the public has voiced their opinions regarding the figure.

The Minimum and Equal Wages Commission has invited comments and objections on the proposed wage, to reach them no later than June 6th, 2024. The finalised wage will be implemented on Emancipation Day, 2024.

Recently, statements made in relation to the minimum wage by UWP First Deputy Leader, Guy Joseph, were met with disappointment by the public.

Joseph, during his party’s latest press conference, described the implementation of a minimum wage as an “election gimmick”, stating that it should be more than the proposed $6.50/hour.

“This is not anything because, first of all, the government spoke about a livable wage. All of a sudden, the discussion changed from a livable wage to a minimum wage. And I believe it is embarrassing for us to go to the parliament and pass [this law],” Joseph asserted on May 28th.

Social Activist, Dr Cherry, says the United Workers’ Party should join the discussion fruitfully, instead of bashing the current Administration’s efforts.

He notes that while the UWP was in office, no efforts were made to introduce a minimum wage.

“They had over five years to make a difference and change in the lives of our people when they were in charge. They need to shut up, they need to stay mute, because they had every opportunity to be the ones to make that change,” he said.

 Social media commentators also expressed their disbelief and ire at the statements from the UWP for their criticisms of the proposals, echoing similar views as Dr. Cherry.

Dr Cherry implores the government to review the minimum periodically with the hopes of increasing it.