Minister Jason Hayward also affirmed that the long-term plan is to table a living wage report
Bermuda’s minimum wage is set to go up by 73 cents per hour to $17.13 in September.
Jason Hayward, Minister of Economy & Labour, tabled the amendment on Friday, reflecting the recommendations of the Wage Commission’s Report.
Minister Hayward told the House, “Taking the annual average rate of inflation for 2023 and 2024 of 3.3% and 1.9% respectively, the Wage Commission proposes a statutory minimum hourly wage rate of $17.13, an increase of $0.73 per hour from the current rate.”
“It is anticipated that more than 2,500 workers will benefit from this adjustment, primarily those in the service and sales sectors. These workers include individuals employed in hotels and restaurants, retail workers, personal care workers, cleaners, beauticians, and domestic workers.”
Some of the roles highlighted by Minister Hayward, according to the 2023 Employment Survey, appear to be heavily dominated by guest workers – including general waiters and waitresses – whereas more cleaners and housepersons are Bermudian.
Responding to our questions about who will benefit the most from the minimum wage increase, Minister Hayward also pointed to protected categories such as bartenders – filled almost entirely by Bermudians.
He also affirmed that the long-term plan is to table a living wage report…
