$350 Minimum Wage “May Still be a Challenge”

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – A $350 dollar weekly minimum wage may still be a challenge, according to former CEO of The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation Edison Sumner. Meanwhile, some members of the public tell Our News what they believe the minimum wage should be.

Jared Higgs reports.

Prime Minister Philip Davis announced on Wednesday that government submitted a proposal to incrementally increase public sector minimum wage.

Economic Affairs Minister Michael Halkitis says a $250 per week minimum is being looked at.

Our News spoke to several members of the public about the minimum wage.

Most say it should be $350 per week or $8.75/ hour.

Union leaders have long called for a minimum $350 per week wage, saying it is more in line with a livable wage.

Halkitis says the country’s current minimum wage of $210 per week isn’t sustainable due to the high cost of living.

Halkitis says government will be trying to convince the private sector to go along with a minimum wage increase as well.