Effective October 1st 2024, every worker in the country is entitled to no less than $6.50/hour, $52/daily or $1130/month. According to government statistics, 13,000 workers are expected to benefit from this minimum wage enactment.

The Prime Minister issued a strong appeal to employers, discouraging laying employees off to meet the cost of the new wage.

During the consultation period, business owners lamented the cost of implementing this minimum wage, with many suggesting possibly downsizing staff.

“I want to discourage you from attempting to lay off workers, instead of rewarding the years of hard work with this minimum wage. To do this would be to sow the seeds of discord, disenchantment and probably criminal activity, which would be counterproductive for all of us in the long run,” Pierre said.

Pierre adds that business owners have a responsibility to their employees and the wider society by ensuring the welfare of staff is a top priority.

“While we understand the profit motive of businesses, I want to appeal to you to give equal consideration to the welfare of your employees and your social responsibility to the wider community.” 

According to Pierre, this new minimum wage is supposed to be a base pay for workers.

“The minimum wage does not include any payment that an employee is entitled to, such as overtime, share of service charge, commissions, bonuses or profit sharing,” explained PM Pierre during an Emancipation Day address.

Employees are set to see this wage increase by in the coming weeks.