Minimum wage negotiations continue

The labour minister Pearnel Charles said he would be holding more meetings with workers and employers about the delay in increasing the minimum wage.



The minimum wage was due to go up last month but the Government decided to delay the announcement.



The Administration is fearful that an increase in the minimum wage could lead to job cuts, as employers cannot afford to pay their workers more.



Yesterday, Mr. Charles met with employers and unions representing workers to discuss the matter.



He would not reveal much detail on the progress of the talks, but Mr Charles said suggestions and recommendations made by the groups would be examined.



He said he still cannot give a guarantee, at this time, that the minimum wage will be increased in light of the economic financial crisis.