NASSAU, BAHAMAS — The Bahamas Hotel Employers and Restaurants Association (BHERA) commended the minimum wage hike as a “bold step” as it expressed relief that the government has definitively stated its position.
BHERA president Russell Miller said in a statement yesterday that its members were relieved that “after months of speculation and pronouncements”.
Last week, Prime Minister Philip Davis announced that the national minimum wage will be increased to $260 per week.
The last time the minimum wage was raised was in 2015. For those in the public service, the change will be retroactive to July of this year. For minimum wage earners in the private sector, the increase will begin in January 2023.
Miller said: “The public record will show that the Association has consistently supported the Government’s decision to increase the minimum wage. With the final decision made, our members reiterate our strong support of this bold step taken by the Government.
“However, the promise of our consultation and involvement in the process was not met, much to our disappointment. Although this exercise was not without its challenges, the Association is confident that our members now have the certainty they need for the operation of their businesses.”
Miller added: “The Association notes the Prime Minister’s reference to a “liveable wage”. As with the national conversation on the minimum wage, we remain committed to being strong, supportive private sector partners to the Government of The Bahamas as the national conversation turns to what is undoubtedly an important and timely conversation on a liveable wage.”
