With the January 18 deadline approaching, Barbados’ proposed two percent minimum wage increase has garnered just one formal objection, according to Labour Minister Colin Jordan. The minister confirmed receiving minimal pushback against the scheduled adjustment that would raise the national minimum wage from $10.50 to $10.71 per hour effective January 21.
Minister Jordan revealed he had been briefed about the solitary objection but remained unaware of its source or specific content. Despite this limited opposition, the government maintains established procedures for addressing formal challenges. Any objection must undergo review by the Minimum Wage Board, which subsequently provides recommendations to Cabinet for final determination.
The minister defended the modest increase as a balanced approach that addresses both worker needs and employer concerns. “This two percent adjustment covers the annual increase in national insurance thresholds while providing predictability for businesses,” Jordan explained. He emphasized that the measured increase helps low-income workers manage rising living costs without placing excessive burden on employers.
The current framework includes provisions for more comprehensive triennial reviews, with the next major assessment scheduled for 2027. Barring significant economic disruptions, no further adjustments are anticipated before this scheduled review.
This upcoming change follows a substantial minimum wage increase seven months prior that raised rates from $8.50 to $10.50 for general workers and from $9.25 to $11.43 for security personnel. The new adjustment will bring security guards’ industry rate to $11.66 per hour.
Public objections require specific documentation including grounds for opposition, the objector’s interest in the matter, and suggested amendments. Submissions must be emailed to designated government addresses before the January 18 cutoff. Following this consultation period, the Minimum Wage Board will evaluate any objections and provide cabinet recommendations ahead of the planned implementation on Errol Barrow Day.