The Minimum Wage Commission recently submitted its report to stakeholders regarding the proposed implementation of a Livable Wage or Minimum Wage framework in the country. The details of this initiative have been documented in a recent Draft Order which is now open for public feedback.
According to the extraordinary issue of the Saint Lucia Government Gazette (Vol. 193, Issue 17, Thursday, May 16, 2024), the proposed livable wage rate is calculated at $1,126.00 monthly or $6.50 per hour. Stakeholders have until June 6 to express their objections to the document.
Lawrence Poyotte, Chair of the Minimum Wage Commission, emphasized that stakeholders with objections should communicate them to the minister and the Commission.
“We will examine the objections and if necessary, call them (the objectors) in to more or less justify the objections before we make a final recommendation,” he explained.
Poyotte clarified that the wage rates were determined using a specific methodology, rather than being arbitrary figures. The proposed minimum wage excludes overtime pay, service charges, commissions, bonuses and profit sharing.
“The amount is not something that you pick from the air …it is not something that you do based on a salary survey,” Poyotte added. “There is some specific methodology for arriving at the amount and this is what we applied.”
However, some stakeholders, including Sylvia Cadasse, Vice-President of the Bakers Association, have raised concerns. Cadasse highlighted the need for a thorough investigation into how the proposed wage will impact businesses and industries, particularly the baking industry. She urged industry personnel to voice their sentiments during this critical period.
Currently, the Minimum Wage Commission and the Labour Department are working on the rollout of a Livable Minimum Wage to be announced on August 1.