Pearnel Charles, Minister of Labour & Social Security.
The House of Representatives has approved changes to the Minimum Wage Act which will see stiffer fines being imposed for employers who breach its provisions.
Labour Minister Pearnel Charles, who piloted the amendments during Tuesday's sitting of Parliament, stated in Gordon House that the increased fines will offer greater protection to vulnerable workers.
He said the amendments to the Minimum Wage Act are designed to stamp out the exploitation of low income employees including security guard.
"The fine has been increased from $1,000 to $750,000. Formerly, the fines were miniscule, it started at $20 (then moved) to $100 and then raised to $1,000 for various offences. Section Thirteen of the Act was also amended to give ministers the power, when making regulations under the Section to provide that on summary convictions in a resident magistrate court, the penalty may be up to $1 million or 12 months imprisonment," Mr. Charles.
Simpson-Miller expects increased in minimum wage threshold
Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Portia Simpson-Miller appealed for improved monitoring to ensure that the amendments to the law are complied with.
And the Opposition Leader says she is expecting the Government to announce an increase to the National Minimum Wage soon.
"Minister Charles, ensure that you will becoming to Parliament next week to announce the increase in minimum wage including that of security guards," Mrs. Simpson-Miller declared.
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