The Ministry of Economy and Labour says students must be paid no less than $11.99 per hour during vacation periods
The Ministry of Economy and Labour is reminding employers of their legal obligation to pay student workers the correct minimum wage rate as the vacation period begins.
Under current provisions, students must be paid an average hourly rate of no less than 70 per cent of the statutory minimum wage. With the minimum hourly wage set at $17.13, that equates to a minimum of $11.99 per hour for eligible students.
Employers are also reminded that any time worked under a full hour must be calculated and paid on a pro-rata basis.
For wage purposes, a student is defined under the Employment Act 2000 and section 1(3) of the Contributory Pensions Act 1970 as a person in full-time education who is employed on a Saturday, a public holiday, or during a period of vacation, including half-term holidays. Individuals in full-time education whose employment extends beyond those specified periods do not qualify for the student rate and must be paid the full minimum wage of $17.13 per hour.
Employers, employees and students are encouraged to familiarise themselves with their rights and obligations under the Employment (Minimum Hourly Wage Entitlement) Act 2022.
Those requiring further information, or wishing to report a potential breach, can contact the Department of Labour at (441) 297-7716 or at departmentoflabour@gov.bm. The Department’s offices are located on the third floor of Sophia House, 48 Church Street, Hamilton, and are open Monday through Friday, 8.45am to 5.00pm.
Media release supplied by the Government of Bermuda, Department of Communications.
