KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s Minister of Labour and Social Security, the Hon. Pearnel Charles, announced on Thursday, April 30 that effective Monday, May 11, the National Minimum Wage will be increased by ten percent.
The increase will move the NMW from the current $3,700 to $4,070.00 per forty (40) hour week.
Effective Monday, June 1, Industrial security guards will also see an increase in their wages of ten percent for a forty hour work week. Their wages will move from $5, 500 to $6, 050.
In addition, Laundry Allowance will be increased from $25.00 per hour to $27.50 per hour. Fire Arm Allowance will be increased from $27.50 per hour to $30.25 per hour, while Dog Handlers Premium Allowance will be increased from $18.50 per hour to $20.35 per hour.
Last year January, the Government granted an increase of 16.4 percent on the minimum wages to workers.
Hon. Pearnel Charles
Minister of Labour and Social Security – Jamaica
Mr. Charles, who made the announcement in the House of Representatives, said that a major challenge in determining the new rates, was the extent to which they will increase the purchasing power and raise the standards of living of the workers, while making it affordable for employers and avoiding job losses.
“In this context, the Government had to consider carefully the implications of adjusting the minimum wages. While we seek to raise the living standards of the minimum wage earners, we have a responsibility to prevent any adverse impact on employment,” he explained.
