Pierre Says UWP Plotting Layoffs Over Minimum Wage

Prime Minister Philip J.Pierre has accused the opposition United Workers Party (UWP) of plotting with others to lay off workers due to the implementation of a minimum wage. Pierre made the accusation while addressing the annual general meeting of the ruling Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) Vieux Fort North constituency. “They are planning and plotting with some people to lay off workers because of the minimum wage – the United Workers Party, planning and plotting with people to lay off workers,” he stated without going into details. The Prime Minister described the implementation of the minimum wage in August as historic. The measure will take effect in October. As a result, Employers have until October 1, 2024, to adjust their systems and ensure employee remuneration reflects the following minimum wages: $1130 monthly $52.00 daily $6.52 hourly The new minimum wage will increase the salaries of nearly 13,000 people. Prime Minister Pierre had earlier warned that employee layoffs would sow discord and disenchantment. But he also called on workers to provide a fair day’s work for their remuneration. Pierre told the SLP Vieux Fort North constituency meeting that he did things correctly. He recalled not announcing the minimum wage until the...