SLHTA urges compliance with Minimum Wage

(Castries, Saint Lucia – August 22nd 2024)- The Saint Lucia Hospitality and Tourism Association (SLHTA) has no objections to the upcoming implementation of a minimum wage on October 1st, 2024. With tourism being the largest contributor to Saint Lucia’s Gross Domestic Product and accounting for the highest number of jobs, the Association is hopeful that it will foster a more equitable environment that benefits the country as a whole.

During the planning phase, the Minimum and Equal Wages Commission engaged the SLHTA in numerous productive sessions, which provided our vast membership with opportunities to discuss the wage’s impact on operations, voice their concerns and make recommendations to the legislation.

SLHTA CEO Noorani Azeez

The Association endorses the perspective of the International Labour Organization, which states, “The purpose of minimum wages is to protect workers against unduly low pay. They help ensure a just and equitable share of the fruits of progress to all, and a minimum living wage to all who are employed and in need of such protection.”

SLHTA CEO Noorani Azeez said, “As our economy grows, a minimum wage is one of the broader actions that will help us to create a more equitable, inclusive and accessible society. It is our hope that it will have a positive impact on crime prevention and reducing other social ills. I commend the authorities for this bold move, which aligns with global best practices.”

The SLHTA urges compliance with the minimum wage requirements, which aims to support the continued growth and development of our country. The Association will continue to support its members through this transition, and offer guidance and resources to ensure smooth compliance with the new regulations.